Arts fest brings colour to G’town
Packed full-spectrum programme for vibrant annual celebration about to kick off
THE City of Saints is being draped in red, white and blue as it prepares to usher in thousands of visitors to this year’s National Arts Festival. The festival runs from tomorrow to July 9.
It has received more than R3.6-million from the provincial Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture.
This is the 43rd edition of the annual event, billed as Africa’s biggest and boldest celebration of the arts.
Showcasing more than 700 shows, the programme features theatre, dance, music, visual and performance arts, film, illusion, cabaret and more.
This year’s comedy is particularly strong, with big names in South African comedy performing alongside visiting talents such as UK comedians Stephen K Amos and Louise Reay.
Top South African comics on the programme include Loyiso Madinga, Tats Nkonzo, Schalk Bezuidenhout, Loyiso Gola, Rob van Vuuren, Virgil Prins, KG and Mojak Lehoko.
Festival chief executive Tony Lankester said they were ready to entertain art lovers from all over the continent.
“In times like these the need to reflect, revitalise, engage and reimagine is critical. It will all unfold at the festival this year.”
Last year, an audience survey indicated that 99% of festivalgoers would recommend the experience to others.
Arts and culture MEC Pemmy Majodina said she was looking forward to this year’s festival.
“Our artists sing, they dance, they write and present words of wisdom and inspiration.
“They paint and create beautiful artefacts. They stimulate debate and encourage open conversations,” Majodina said.
“And with each of these endeavours, our society takes another step towards the freedom dreamed of by iconic leaders.
“[OR Tambo’s] memory and legacy will be remembered at the festival, as we reflect and talk and learn from him.”
The festival would also be commemorating the centenary of the sinking of the SS Mendi through exhibitions and performances, she said.
Jazz will be celebrated with a sensational programme of South African greats – including Judith Sephuma, Afrika Mkhize and Zenzi Makeba Lee, Kyle Shephard, and Benjamin Jephta – collaborating with international legends like Andy Narell, of the US, and Australia’s James Morrison Quartet for the 20th anniversary edition of the Standard Bank Jazz Festival.
Show tickets can be booked at www.nationalartsfestival.co.za