AFRICA AND THE MIDDLE EAST

performances, parades, costume competitions, and food, drinks and music add all the fun elements to the vibrant three-day affair on this coastal turf. This year marks its 39th birthday. Expect to additionally enjoy bonfire evenings, and talks on the history of pirates.

TEXAS RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL About 55 acres of land are dedicated to what is believed to be “the nation’s largest Renaissance theme park”. It all began in 1974 when George Coulam and his brother David Coulam put together three stages for improv theatre performances, and invited vendors from various industries to sell their wares there. Each weekend of the festival adopts a different theme and encourages visitors to dress in complementing costumes. Food stalls, art, souvenir shops, contests and games add flavour to the celebratory weeks. Johannesberg, South Africa November 11-12 Abu Dhabi, UAE November 25-27 VOCAL EXPLOSION Maya Spector and Asanda Mqiki will mesmerise their audience at the Market Theatre with soulful music. To begin with, the venue is dedicated to showcasing traditional African art through local talent. The show will touch upon most facets of jazz music: genres, old numbers, classical, different languages, tempos, and new age performances. Both nights promise to be a music lover’s — especially of this genre — electrifying experience. markettheatre.co.za

ABU DHABI GRAND PRIX Over 60,000 people fill the stands overlooking the race tracks at Yas Marina Circuit. Adding to the glamour of the water-front venue, are fans in the form of celebrities, super models, and the rich and affluent. The first day has spectators cheering the practice sessions, the second day has them shout motivating comments during qualifying lines, and the third day is more nailbiting with supporters cheering their favourite driver.