Festive feasts await in G’town
Whether the arts, stall-trawling or socialising is your bag, there’s heaps for young National Arts Festival fans to look forward to next month, writes
ANOTHER year, another extraordinary festival. The National Arts Festival hits Grahamstown next month – for the 41st time in its history. The festival, popularly known as “G-Fest” among South African youth, brings together creative acts from national and international shores.
This year’s fest, from July 2-12, is themed “satire”.
National Arts Festival board chairman Ayanda Mjekula promises the festival will get hearts racing and that it will move visitors in a way only the arts can.
“I’m happy to say that our team [has] pulled a spectacular programme out of the bag.”
This celebration of all aspects of the arts, from music and theatre to dance, comedy, the visual arts and more, makes for a perfect family outing for all ages.
And it’s always a huge drawcard for the youth, particularly the Transnet Village Green which for many is the heart of the festival.
This is where you can find marquees of clothing and gift stalls, music performances, great food, festival souvenirs, and the ever-popular beer tent. The Village Green also has a kids’ play area to ensure nobody is left out. The area has clowning, puppet shows and other activities to keep them occupied all day.
Comedian Loyiso Gola is sure to leave audiences in stitches with his State of the Nation show. Then there is timelessly funny Rob van Vuuren, Conrad Koch and his puppet Chester Missing, and others.
Theatre acts vary from South African satirist Pieter-Dirk Uys and Christiaan Olwagen to student theatre from the South African School of Motion Picture Medium & Live Performance and CityVarsity, Stellenbosch University, Market Theatre Laboratory and Durban University of Technology.
Sounds that will get you grooving until the morning comes in- clude Beatenberg, Thandiswa Mazwai, Shortstraw and Mi Casa. Folk duo Umle comprising Siyabonga “Feido” Radu and Siphamandla “Spara” Fete will be representing the Bay, for one night only.
For those looking to let their hair down at night there are loads of nightlife options in the City of Saints. Or you could chill at The Long Table restaurant and bar where many actors and other festival folk typically socialise around a set of long tables.
It’s also the perfect place to eavesdrop on what’s hot and happening on the festival agenda.
The Rat and Parrot is another fa- vourite festival hangout, especially for students.
If you’re not looking to go over budget, the festival has plenty on offer for free. Street theatre, art gazing and SAfm Sundowner Concerts will cater for you.
Free transport has been thrown in for you too. The Festival Hopper service operates between all the main festival venues but a small tip for the driver would certainly be appreciated.
ý To launch yourself into this year’s festival feast, check out the full programme on the National Arts Festival website at http://www.nationalartsfestival.co.za