Heat is on for lights, music extravaganza
Season will be opened with bang of fireworks display
THE Buffalo City Metro will turn on the heat this weekend when it officially opens the festive season.
Crowds are expected to flock to the Esplanade today for the switching on of the lights ceremony at the Court Crescent.
Today’s main event was preceded by switching on the lights at the Sisa Dukashe stadium in Mdantsane last night, with festivities moving to King William’s Town tomorrow. The slogan for the metro’s summer season programme is: “The heat is on”.
Metro spokesman Thandy Matebese said the East London event will start at 5pm with the Sandiso Jazz Band opening proceedings.
Well-known gospel singer Malibongwe Gcwabe will perform next followed by an official prayer.
Matebese said they had used more than 80% local artists. Each of the three events – in Mdantsane, East London and King William’s Town – will feature a number of up-and-coming artists.
“Ideally, we would love to have just our local artists but we need that balance in performances. We have one national artist scheduled to perform at each event,” he said.
Matebese said they had selected artists from different genres and ages. “We are fair on everyone. Every genre of music will be represented.”
Artists also scheduled to perform today are Pinky, Thixu Nathi, Buyelembo Traditional Group, Gods Kingdom, Montay, Andile, DJ Tulz and well-known Vusi Nova.
Tomorrow Kenny’s Jazz Band, Lord Comforters, Ncebakazi Nkantsu, Zoobo, Siseko Pame, Mavee, Kryptic Crew, Ceebo, DJ Medda and Winnie Khumalo will be performing.
Matebese said executive mayor Zukiswa Ncitha would make a speech at both events this weekend. The lights will be switched on at about 8pm.
The metro encouraged residents to keep their pets indoors between 8pm and 10pm as there would also be a fireworks display.
Law enforcement officials will be patrolling the Esplanade.
Matebese said auditions would be held next week for artists wishing to perform at the carnival. The carnival takes place from December 13 to 14 in King William’s Town, December 16 to 17 in Mdantsane and December 19 to 20 at the Esplanade in East London.
Other events this weekend include the 360 Art in the Park at Ann Bryant Art Gallery, featuring crafts, auctions, performances by East London’s best musicians, a vintage fashion show and gourmet meals. Entry is R40 for adults and R20 for children under 12.
The Cruel Summer picnic is also taking place at the Cambridge Police Park with Big Nuz headlining. Tickets at R150 are available at Computicket and Music Mix in Vincent. The inaugural Premier’s Horse Racing event takes place in Berlin today and entry will be free. — poliswap@dispatch.co.za