Freedom of expression reigns
THE National Arts Festival does more than celebrate Africa’s artistic expression. It also generates hundreds of jobs and boosts the economy of the Eastern Cape over the 10-day period.
Even though festival planners have struggled with funding this year, festivities still got under way in Grahamstown last week as artists from across the country showcased their performances at the 43rd National Arts Festival, which runs until Sunday.
Festival board chairperson, Ayanda Mjekula, said the partnership with the municipality and province was essential in the event’s success.
“The partnership we enjoy with our municipality and province in driving the ‘Creative City’ project is central to our agenda of using the arts to address some of our deeply systemic problems,” Mjekula said.
Festival chief executive, Tony Lankester, said the festival was important in nation building. But, since the change in regulations for grants, funding has become a tricky issue.
Lankester previously said a third of their funding comes from the national Lottery which has been assisting the festival since 2002. Although R10 million was received from the national lottery, this year Eastern Cape Premier Phumulo Masualle had to step in to “bail out the festival to keep the lights on”.
Other funding comes from Standard Bank and the Department of Arts and Culture.
“No artists will be arrested for what they do and say on stage… they enjoy the freedom to express themselves without fear. Artists are at the festival in the same numbers as they have been in years gone by, demonstrating an incredible commitment to their craft. Audiences are coming and South African audiences listen and engage especially deeply with the arts,” Lankester said.
Eastern Cape MEC for Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Pemmy Majodina, said this year the festival was of particular significance, as it marked the centenary of the birth of Oliver Reginald Tambo, born in 1917 in Nkantolo Village, Eastern Cape. “His memory and legacy will be remembered. The festival will also be commemorating the centenary of the sinking of the SS Mendi. The memories of the soldiers lost in that tragedy will play out through exhibitions and performances,” Majodina said.