Wilderness Wisdom

Wilderness Wisdom

By Sharlene Versfeld

We looked over the muddy waters of the Umfolozi as the heat seared through my freckled skin.  I longed for the shade that the lunch-stop across the river promised. And the least of our worries were the crocodiles that could be lurking in the milky brown water.  Rather a massive “daka” boy, a lone male buffalo, known for being notoriously bad-tempered, lay in the water on the opposite back. His massive, muscular back arched, his head down and relaxed on the cool sand.  He was going nowhere.  It was midday and hot as hell.

Our guide Mandla Gumede approaches the river, cautiously but with enough visible movement and natural sound, in an effort to ensure our “daka boy” knows we are here. Conflicted. On one hand, he had 6 tired, hungry and hot trailists collapsed in sweaty heaps on their heavy backpacks, waiting for his instructions, and on the other – a very deep  “leave no trace” ethic buried beneath his skin. That “you-don’t-mess-with-anything-in-the-wilderness” kind of ethic. You come and go and you just don’t go messing with anything.  I understood that too, so I whispered, half in jest, half in desperation but oh so respectfully, “Please, please Mr Buffalo, just get up and go so we can cross.” And he did.  He just got up, turned to look at us for a while, and then trotted through the reeds and high up onto the grassy plain beyond.

“The secret to the success of the Wilderness Leadership School is “hlonipha”,” said Simon Blackburn, owner of Tree Tops Lodge at Spioenkop a few weeks earlier when I met him on a wildlife medical emergency seminar, “that’s why these guys have virtually no problems on trail in the big five reserves.”

Hlonipha, the isiZulu word for respect, pervades every being of the trail guides in Ian Players’ legacy programme, which sees highly experienced guides take trailists out into the wilderness areas of the Umfolozi/Hluhluwe Game Park. Simply put, you leave no trace, except your tracks.  And this means no emotional trace either – no trauma, no impact on the emotional well-being of the creatures in whose home we are privileged to be able walk.  So of course Mandla was cautious, and I was glad I had, in that moment, become “a buffalo whisperer”.

The Wilderness Leadership School takes groups of 6 trailists at a time into pristine reserve areas. The trailists must carry all their cooking, food, bedding, and personal requirements in and out of the reserve – and must leave no trace. No burnt firewood, no broken branches, no upturned rocks, no toilet paper, nothing.

Stepping into the Hluhluwe/Umfolozi reserve, packs laden, we were briefed under a tree. It’s serious business. You could die out there. “Just remind me again, I take cover if it’s a buffalo or rhino, and only then if you say so. And I don’t run if it’s a lion? I stand still, right. So the lion does not identify me as prey?”

“Isn’t it strange, that this is where humanity inhabited with ease not too long ago,” said our other guide Doric Holmes later, as Mandla was showing us the track of an extremely large lion, and our adrenalin juices were flowing (very) fast.  “We lived here in the wilderness, amongst all of this, the animals and creatures, and were not afraid. And now we return and are so out of touch and disconnected that we fear it.”

An ancient place and space. Here a royal hunting area, once teeming with game. Remnants of Shaka’s Zulu people, who lived at one with the land, lie scattered around. The pottery shards and broken grinding stones that pepper the edges of the ageless animal paths, echo a rich history of a people and a oneness with nature.

Walking and living on trail is the ultimate nature experience. Us trailists follow, in single file, our two guides, both armed in case of a dangerous interaction with an animal. Neither of our guides had ever needed to use their rifles. “We track, we listen and we observe the animals, so that we are no invading their comfort zones. Respect is important. Quiet is important. Being present is important.”

So present that one morning Mandla, who was lying chatting to us in his sleeping bag, as we drank our hot drinks, jumped up to show us that an elephant was crossing the river.  So tuned in he was he could hear the lone bull, a good 300 metres up the river bank, enter the water.

As we walk we notice the tracks. We stop to discuss what it is, the direction the animal was heading, how old we think the track is. We sit by watering holes and watch the giraffe, zebra and impala skittish and aware of our presence. The “daka” boys snort and stand and watch from afar on the banks of the rivers, alerting us to the fact they have noticed us. The wild dogs, gladly present themselves, all nine of them on the sand bank in from of our camp, on the first morning as we sip our tea and dunk our rusks. All the while watching us, ears twitching.  Mocking cliff chats settle in front of us wagging their tails on the cool rocks.  The baboons bark and some raucous Egyptian Geese, well were just raucous.  Then the frogs chorus, like competitive choirs at night, reminding us that they too own some pretty fine real estate here in the wilderness. 

Our path crosses with a lone young bull elephant one day, and the guides move swiftly into action. One moves left to find a safe exit through a gully lined with magnificent Sycamore Figs. The other moves us downwind behind some trees. We remove backpacks, and wait for our instructions. Our exit planned, we don our gear and move swiftly out of the oncoming path of the elephant. Quickly we ascend the hill, with enough distance now to look back and observe him on the opposite bank. All the while his trunk up and alert as he continues to monitor us.

We camp in three places over the four nights, each time setting up before dark: gathering firewood far away from camp so as not to deplete the camp areas of dead wood needed for its own ecosystems to survive. Collecting and purifying the water – enough to wash and drink. Then making a small fire to cook, and settling in for the night under the stars, where each trailist takes watch alone for a few hours to ensure no animals pass through the camp.

It’s the first night, and having done a trail before, my adrenalin does not pump as fast as that first time on watch. I know now that it’s the anticipation of the nightwatch that is more scary than the watch itself. It’s now an opportunity to contemplate the vastness of the great sky lit with a million stars, and the crackle of the small fire, the rumble of the lions in the distance or the hyenas “whooooop, whoooop” and the odd owl, and the silence.  And I am present now. Not home, not trawling Facebook, or answering a what’s app, or planning my day tomorrow. Absolutely now. For should I wander off I shall miss the stars, and the sounds or the visit by the hyena.

And therein lies the beauty of these trails. Of the connection we once had with the wilderness, with the trees, and the plants, and the bugs and snakes and the frogs and the animals.  For within it we did not fear. Now without it we do.

Symbolically I enter the wilderness with a heavy backpack, and exit with one a whole lot lighter. And one thing is for sure, it is always very very difficult to leave.

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The Wilderness Leadership School offers 4 night, 5 day trails with highly experience guides in various areas including Umfolozi/Hluhluwe Game Reserve, iSimangaliso World Heritage Site, Drakensberg World Heritage Site, the Wild Coast, Pilanesberg National Park and Okavango Delta World Heritage site.. For more information contact 031-462 8642 or email info@wildernessleadershipschool.co.za

Sharlene Versfeld is a Durban-based communications consultant and publicist.

SPAR KZN School Girls’ Hockey Challenge Pongola: Sat 25 Feb Ferrum High Claims Back Regional Title in SPAR KZN

SPAR KZN School Girls’ Hockey Challenge

Pongola: Saturday 25 February

Ferrum High Claims Back Regional Title in SPAR KZN

It was a day that young hockey players had to really dig deep to sustain their games in sweltering heat in the first of the regionals in the 2017 SPAR KZN School Girls’ Hockey Challenge which saw Ferrum High School reclaim the Northern Regional title.

Defending champions Sarel Cilliers were unable to hold onto the cup, which they scooped from Ferrum last year, who have now been crowned champions six times in this region.

Participating teams included Newcastle High School, Ferrum High School and St Dominics also from Newcastle, Utrecht High School, Dundee High School, Vryheid High School, Pionier High School (Vryheid) and Pongola Akademie. 

The twenty-four minute games, were played in two pools with Ferrum topping the log of Pool A, meeting Pool B runners-up, host school Pongola Akademie in the first semi-final. The second semi had Pool A’s Pionier taking on Dundee, who topped Pool B.

Dundee were outright winners of their pool finishing their three games with 10 points having drawn against Pongola in the pool game. Pongola were two points behind them having drawn two of their games. 

Ferrum were clear dominators having won all of their games. The battle for second place was down to the wire with Sarel Cilliers and Pionier equal on nine points. The deciding factor was goal difference, and Pionier had to score more than two in their final game against Newcastle.

Pionier’s centre forward, Lara Dedekind, stormed down the middle of the field smashing a shot from the top of the circle landing their second needed goal in their last match to secure their place in the semis. Inspired by success the team continued to net another four more goals taking the final score to 6 – 0.

The first semi saw Pongola taking on Ferrum with Ferrum scoring their goal in the first half, and Pongola defended valiantly throughout the remainder of the game only having a few opportunities at the other end which they were not able to convert.

In the second semi-final, Dundee met Pionier for the first time in over a decade, and Dedekind netted another two for her team in between goals landed by team mates Johanette Wilken and Anlie Knoetze.

In the blazing sun, Pionier and Ferrum met for the finals with evenly matched play, as both sides had opportunities on either end. Earlier on in the day the two teams that had battled it out with Ferrum conquering Pionier 2-1. 

As the clock wound down in the final, left wing Lucrecia Struwig managed to beat the last line of the opposition’s sterling defense – goalie Lorma Janse van Rensburg to nudge the ball in. In the last minute of play, Pionier fought courageously being awarded with back-to-back short corners but were unable to equalize.

Captain of the winning team Sanelisiwe Mnguni, elated with the win said “We had to really work hard and persevere, especially when our energy levels were really low, but we held onto our motto Believe, Motivate and Communicate to get us through.”

The Most Promising Umpire was Que Mdletshe, representing Dundee High School.

Our 2017 tournament is well and truly under way with the fantastic community spirit both on and off the field, it always is a festive way to start our year.” said Les Galloway Tournament Director.

Max Oliva, Managing Director of SPAR KZN said “Well done to the teams that gave their all despite the relentless heat. We appreciate your dedication to your teams and schools, and to the camaraderie shown throughout the day.”  

Ferrum High school is the first team through to the grand finals which will be played at St Mary’s DSG in Durban at the end of July.

For more info like the Facebook page.

Results:

1 Ferrum High School, 2 Pionier High School, 3 Dundee High School, 4 Pongola High School, 5 Sarel Cilliers High School, 6 Vryheid High School, 7 St Dominics College, 8 Utrecht High School, 9 Newcastle High School

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Celebrating the Velobala Class of 2016: Group Exhibition

Celebrating the Velobala Class of 2016: Group Exhibition

The African Art Centre is pleased to host the Velobala Class of 2016 Group exhibition showcasing charcoal, pencil, oil pastel, chalk pastel drawings, paintings and jewellery.

The Velobala Programme is an African Art Centre Development Project that offers formal art classes to young talented black artists who do not have the financial means to enroll for tertiary-level art training. Initiated in 1994, this African Art Centre programme is an ongoing commitment to facilitate exploration of different mediums for young talented artists, including ceramics, drawing, painting, jewellery and printmaking. This project is supported by the Durban University of Technology’s Department of Fine Art and Jewellery Design.

Over a period of 10 months the 2016 Velobala Programme saw the development of 28 aspiring artists.  Major Ndlovu, a second year student of the programme, said this: “The Velobala programme meant a lot to me, it introduced me to the art industry and helped me to build a solid foundation. What I like most about the programme is that you attend as much as you can, their classes are unlimited. They provide upcoming artists enough time to shape and showcase their talent. Once you participate in the Velobala programme you become part of the African Art Centre family.”  Works produced by Major Ndlovu will form part of the Velobala 2016 exhibition.

The Velobala 2016 exhibition at the African Art Centre will be opened from Thursday 9 February.

The Centre would like to thank the Artists for Human Rights Trust, Mr Price Home and the Durban University of Technology Fine Arts and Jewellery Department for partnering with the African Art Centre on this programme.  The exhibition is supported by the National Arts Council of South Africa.

For more details contact the African Art Centre on 031 3034634 or email africanartcentre@afri-art.co.za

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Phansi Museum launches the 22nd Art Craft Tradition Calendar - Featuring the Human Rights Murals (Durban)

Media Release

 Phansi Museum launches the 22nd Art Craft Tradition Calendar - Featuring the Human Rights Murals (Durban) 

One of the most admired contributions the Bartel Arts Trust and the Phansi Museum have made to the enrichment of the cultural life in KwaZulu Natal is the annual Art • Craft • Tradition calendar.  This annual publication, now in its 22nd year of production was officially launched on Wednesday, 7 December 2016.  Each year, the Museum distributes 1 000’s of calendars to schools in cities, villages and in faraway rural areas, clinics, libraries, community centers and educational institutions across the province.  

The 2017 calendar features panels from the 1992 Universal Declaration of Rights and the 1994 Interim Bill of Rights murals painted on the surfaces of the east and south walls surrounding the former Central Prison in Durban.  Both these murals laid the foundations for the 1997 Human Rights Mural of the Final Constitution.  Just as the Rights in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and the Interim Bill of Rights inspired the drafters of the Final Bill of Rights in Chapter 2 of the South African Constitution of 1996, so the works of the artists of the 1992 and 1994 murals came to inspire the artists who painted the 1997 Human Rights mural. 

Whilst the rest of the world commemorates International Human Rights Day and the 68th anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948 on 10 December 2016, the Phansi Museum will celebrate the launch of the Human Rights Mural Calendar of 2017 three days earlier.  The 2017 Human Rights Mural calendar aptly also pays tribute to late Terry-Anne Stevenson, (1950 -  2016) who initiated the Community Mural Projects and who tirelessly mustered the artists in Durban including Thami Jali, Sfiso Ka Mkame, Derick Nxumalo, Zamani Makhanya, Sibusiso Duma, Lalelani Mbhele and Joseph Manana to interpret the Bill of Rights on the prison walls and transform the streets of Durban with paint.  

Finally, to coincide with the launch of the calendar and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the Phansi Museum in collaboration with Community Mural Projects, the Centre for Socio-Legal Studies, University of KwaZulu-Natal and Street Law will launch the Human Rights Art and Essay Competition for learners in Grades 7, 11 and 12.  The objective of this competition is to get learners from as many schools in KwaZulu Natal who see the calendar to illustrate their vision and understanding of our Human Rights. 

The calendars for 2017 in poster and desktop format will be available from the Phansi Museum and other retail outlets from 7 December 2016.

 For additional information please contact theMuseum on 031-206 2889 or admin@phansi.com

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Applications are now open for the Realness Pan African Scriptwriting Residency 2017

Media Release

APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN FOR THE REALNESS PAN AFRICAN SCRIPTWRITING RESIDENCY 2017

Following the success of the inaugural scriptwriting residency, Realness is thrilled to announce the call for submissions for the 2017 edition.

Realness is a pioneering residency that provides filmmakers with the opportunity to hone and develop their creative scriptwriting skills. It serves to address the need for promising African film projects to be supported in their development phase to be able to realistically compete in global film markets.

This year five filmmakers - Amirah Tajdin (Kenya), Hiwot Admasu (Ethiopia) Luck Razanajaona (Madagascar), Sheetal Magan (South Africa) and Wim Steytler (South Africa) spent six weeks at the Nirox Artists’ Residency in the Cradle of Humankind under the mentorship of script consultants Selina Ukwuoma and Nadja Dumouchel, including attending the Durban FilmMart and Talent Campus at the Durban International Film Festival. 

“The success of this residency is not only evident in the encouraging feedback from the participants, who welcomed the opportunity to be in a quiet headspace to tap into their creative sources, but it is also evident in the numerous awards they have received and the progress made following the residency,” explains Elias Ribeiro, Creative Director of Realness. “Luck, for example, had a project selected for the Durban FilmMart prior to the residency, where we met and worked with participants as a precursor to programme. Here he walked off with awards from CineMart (International Film Festival Rotterdam) and the International Organisation of La Francophonie to further develop his script. Hiwot has since won an award to participate at another residency programme in Switzerland the Internationale Kurzfilmtage Winterthur, and two of the projects have signed co-production agreements since completing the residency.”

As a result of the Realness programme, Ribeiro has,been invited to present the initiative at five major international festivals since starting it earlier this year, namely Berlinale, Cannes, Locarno, Venice and Torino. “The continued interest is very encouraging and serves as a platform for the residents to maintain the momentum towards getting their films made. We have structured Realness in a very holistic and strategic way, engaging with heavy-weight partners and advisors in developing the framework for the programme. It is rewarding to see the genuine interest in developing synergy between African cinema and the rest of the world.”

Amirah Tajdin said “Realness made me realize that…time and space really does make all the difference during script writing.” Wim Steytler said that Realness gave him the courage to “throw my script and 8 months of work into the bin. I gained important insights into how to take my story from decent to good. After Realness my goal is to take the project from good to great.”

Realness is proud to announce that the partnerships established in 2016 will continue into the second edition, which means that the 2017 residents will also have the opportunity to further develop their projects through the awards offered by the Durban FilmMart, Locarno Filmmakers Academy, Torino Film Lab, Midpoint, EAVE and La Fabrique des Cinema du Monde.

The submission window opens on 28 November 2016 and closes on 31 January 2017:

Applicants must submit ONE PDF dossier containing:

• a motivation for wanting to participate in REALNESS (1 page)

• a synopsis of the proposed feature project (1 page)

• a narrative treatment of the proposed feature project (6 pages)

• a draft of the screenplay (if available)

• a writer's note of intention (1 page)

• a short biography (1 paragraph)

• two links to samples of previously produced work, uploaded to vimeo. If selected, residents will be required to donate one copy of their previous work to the Nirox film library.

The call is open to screenwriters from across the African continent and selection will be based on artistic merit. REALNESS will hold no legal claim over the work once the residency is completed.

All submitted material must be in English. A committee appointed by the Realness team and their partners will read the project entries and conduct interviews with a shortlist of candidates in April. The REALNESS selection will be announced at an event hosted by the pavilion Les Cinemas du Monde in Cannes, 2017.

Dossiers must be submitted to realness@urucumedia.com. For further information and to download the application form go to www.urucumedia.com/realness.

Independent cinemas extend the run of award-winning film - Train of Salt and Sugar in Cape Town and Johannesburg

Media Release

Independent cinemas extend the run of award-winning film - Train of Salt and Sugar in Cape Town and Johannesburg

Train of Salt and Sugar, recent winner of the Best Film award at the Joburg Film Festival, has had its run extended at local independent cinemas in Johannesburg and Cape Town.

The Mozambican film directed by Licínio Azevedo, is set in the civil-war-torn northern Mozambique during the late 80’s has received critical acclaim since premiering in August this year at Locarno Film Festival in Switzerland. The City Press’s film critic Charl Blignaut described the film as “a superb, gritty, mystical, African love story”.

A selected project at the 2014 Durban FilmMart, the film has been produced by Ukbar Filmes (Portugal), Ébano Multimédia (Mozambique), Les Films de l’Étranger (France), Panda Filmes (Brazil), and new-wave South African company Urucu Media with the support of M-Net and M-Net’s Portuguese channel Jango Magic in Africa.  M-Net will screen the film on Jango in 2017.

The film’s run has been extended at the Bioscope in Johannesburg until the end of December this year, and at The Labia in Cape Town until December 2.

For screening details go to www.thebioscope.co.za  or www.thelabia.co.za

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CAPTION: Artworks created by 2015 Velobala Art Class attendee Zakhele Hlabisa:  Amandla Okudla_Strength from food, Acrylic on canvas, 45.5 cm h x 56 cm w,

Durban's Flatfoot Dance Company performs at Goree Island Diaspora Festival, Senegal in November 2016

MEDIA RELEASE

FLATFOOT DANCE COMPANY

performs, as a special envoy of the National Arts Council of South Africa, at the prestigious GOREE ISLAND DIASPORA FESTIVAL (Dakar, Senegal)

25 – 27 November 2016

Durban’s acclaimed contemporary dance company, FLATFOOT DANCE COMPANY, is one of four companies invited by the National Arts Council of South Africa to represent South Africa in Senegal at the prestigious Goree Island Diaspora Festival at the end of this month.

FLATFOOT is one of two dance companies to get the invite and will be presenting a double bill (titled “Southern Exposure”) of choreographer (and artistic director) Lliane Loot’s recent dance works. Over 2016 Loots has presented two linked dance works that have dealt with hard-hitting themes around displacement, migrations and refugees. The first titled “HOMELAND (security)” was presented in April at the Sneddon Theatre and looks into issues of identity from the pain of the global refugee crisis that sees millions of people (mostly from developing contexts like Africa) forced to leave or evacuated their homes due to war, and political and social disasters.

In this highly praised work, Loots and the FLATFOOT dancers respond to false notion of belonging to a nation state and of feeling safe at ‘home’. With a deep resonance towards the pain of South Africa’s own xenophobia and continued racism, Loots’s “HOMELAND (security)” begins to claim back the internal safety of a resistant (dancing) self that seeks community.  

The second work, “MIGRATIONS (at the feet of Kali)” sees FLATFOOT collaborate with spoken word poet Iain ewok Robinson and classical Indian Kathak dancer Manesh Maharaj. Bordering on performance installation, this dance theatre works is physical journey into the heart of colonial and post-colonial rememberings around the violent movements/migrations of people. Using personal memory as the starting point, this work interfaces with the confluence of colonial Indian and South African histories and sees the meeting of spoken word, African contemporary dance, classical Indian Kathak dance and video installations.  This work premiered at the 2016 JOMBA! Contemporary Dance Festival in September this year.

Loots says; “Given that the 8th Edition of this Goree Island Diaspora Festival is themed “MEMORY AND RESILIENCE,’’ from the past to the present, how can we heal the divides in human society?”, FLATFOOT DANCE COMPANY’s dance work is perfectly situated to sit in the framework of the festival and add to the artistic debates around issues of memory, resilience, home and the myriad identities of South Africans (and Africans)”.

She adds, “We are thrilled to be going. Not only to share our work on our own continent but to take dance work that means something to us and to the lives of African bodies that must speak”.

Goree Island, like its twin Robben Island, is a site of memory and history for Senegal and was used as a slave outpost during the colonial era. The island has been turned into a museum and visitors can walk through slave holding cells and walk through the “door of no return” – the infamous door that saw slaves loaded onto ships bound for Europe. The festival brings together various African artist each year in a festival that allows for collective healing.

FLATFOOT dancer Sifiso Khumalo says; “this is a big one for us – not only to walk the history of Goree Island and our West African brothers and sisters but it is also a time to remember that our art is a weapon for remembering. I cannot wait to dance and speak the truth of our South African bodies in Senegal."

“We leave Durban on 24 November and while this is not a sports tour, we are looking at this as the “team South Africa” in a spirit of letting our cultural ambassadors feel as significant as our sporting ones?” says Loots.

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Caption to Photos by VAL ADAMSON

0381: FLATFOOT dancers with Tshediso Kabulu in front and at the back Njabulu Zungu, Jabu Siphika, Sifiso Khumalo, Zinhle Nzama and Kim Mccusker-Bartlett in Loots’s critically acclaimed “HOMELAND (security)” that will travel to Dakar, Senegal in November.

0418: FLATFOOT dancers Zinhle Nzama on left, Kim Mccusker-Bartlett being lifted and in order front to back Tshediso Kabulu, Jabu Siphika and Sifiso Khumalo in Loots’s critically acclaimed “HOMELAND (security)” that will travel to Dakar, Senegal in November.

0495: FLATFOOT dancers Sifiso Khumalo on the floor, back couple on left Najbulo Zungu and Zinhle Nzama, back couple on rightKim Mccusker-Bartlett and Tshediso Kabulu in Loots’s critically acclaimed “HOMELAND (security)” that will travel to Dakar, Senegal in November.

Juego Flamenco 8-11 December 2016

Juego Flamenco - 8-11 December 2016

Centre for Jazz and Popular Music on the UKZN’s Howard College Campus

The Linda Vargas Flamenco Dance Company in collaboration with jazz musicians Neil Gonsalves (piano), Demi Fernandez (jazz/flamenco guitar) once again take to the intimate venue of UKZN’s Jazz Centre to present Juego Flamenco, the latest instalment  in what is now an annual treat for Durban audiences from these well-respected performers.

Having previously explored the fusion between flamenco and Jazz, Arabic, Indian Kathak, Celtic, and South American styles; Juego Flamenco, meaning ‘flamenco game,’ is a playful blend of these musical and movement styles whilst still embracing the flamenco essence.  Featuring pulsating rhythms and exhilarating music and dance, Juega Flamenco will provide audiences with yet another feast for the senses. There are only 4 performances once again, which usually sell out very quickly, so book early to avoid this treat not to be missed!

Backed by Demi Fernandez and Neil Gonsalves, these world renowned musicians in their own right present new compositions alongside the dance. Their unique style and talent continue to leave audiences spellbound. They are joined by Bryan Stone on percussion who will also add live singing, alongside Gemma Schumann – who made her singing debut as a highlight in last year’s show.

Linda Vargas is the founder and director of the Linda Vargas Flamenco Dance Company. She has choreographed numerous flamenco dance productions as well as the opera productions La Traviata, Amal, Faust, Salome and Carmen. Linda co-founded the international organization Alianza Flamenca and is a member of its Board of Directors, as well as its panel of international examiners. She currently lectures at UKZN and performs, examines and conducts educational and corporate workshops both nationally and internationally. Her educational dance workshops in schools and for NAPTOSA assist teachers to incorporate dance in the formal school curriculum. Linda holds a Masters Degree in Education as well as B.A. Honours in Drama, LISTD and Final Diploma (ISTD, London).

Neil Gonsalves holds a Masters degree in Music and currently lectures at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. He has performed in various national music festivals with numerous South Africa jazz and Afro-beat luminaries as well as his own band, Tonk. He has also toured internationally, including a 4 year stint as part of Johnny Clegg’s band. He has released a solo album “North Facing” which represents a blend of modern South African and Nordic Jazz.

Demi Fernandez was born in Brazil of Spanish Parents and spent many years living and performing in Flamenco Tablaos in Spain. Demi has also appeared as leading flamenco guitarist with numerous South African and international Spanish Dance Companies.  He is resident guitarist for the Linda Vargas Flamenco Dance Company and AlianzaFlamenca. He has composed musical scores for several SABC TV productions and also appeared in numerous productions including “Guitars for Africa” in Durban and at the Grahamstown National Arts Festival. He currently lectures in the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Jazz programme.

Juego Flamenco runs at the Centre for Jazz and Popular Music on the UKZN’s Howard College campus from 8-11 December. Performances are nightly at 7pm and on Sunday the 11 December at 3pm. Entrance Fee is R130 (R100 students / pensioners). Bookings through Linda on: lindavargasflamenco@gmail.com (please note new email address) or 031-201 0750 (mornings only). Tickets are limited for each performance so advanced booking is advised to avoid disappointment.

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Issued by Wesley Maherry

on behalf of the Linda Vargas Flamenco Dance Company             

maherry@ukzn.ac.za

+27 82 950 8188

Action in Autism Skills Transference Workshop - Oct 21 and 22

Media Release

Action in Autism Skills Transference Workshop

Action in Autism will hold a Skills Transference Workshop on Friday 21 October and Saturday 22 October, at the Moth Hall, King Dinizulu Hospital in Durban.

Some of the greatest challenges for autistic people is verbal and non-verbal communication, sensory processing difficulties and the demands of social interaction.  In an ever changing fast paced social world, it is tough for autistic people to feel embraced and supported.   

Action in Autism, a non-profit organisation based in Sydenham, supports this community by providing a highly-intensive 2-day workshop for parents, educators, professionals and those who interact regularly with autistic people. These workshops offer skills, techniques and supports for communication, social interaction, sensory processing challenges and informs and explains the reasons for some of the behavioural challenges experienced by autistic people. These supportive strategies will enable autistic people to better navigate the world they live in and empower people with best practice skills in supporting them. 

Hosted bi-annually by a team of six professionals, a parent and a young adult with autism, the workshop includes both theoretical and practical components, as well as opportunities for networking. The team of professionals comprises of a clinical psychologist, educational psychologist, a speech therapist and a specialist in augmentative and alternative communication systems, an occupational therapist, and an educator.

All parents, professionals and those that support autistic people are invited to join Action in Autism’s next Workshop on Friday 21 October and Saturday 22 October, to be held at the Moth Hall, King Dinizulu Hospital in Durban. The workshop cost of R850 per person covers course materials, refreshments and meals. All parents who cannot afford the costs are sponsored by the organisation.  Please contact the Action in Autism office on 031 207 4858 or send an email to info@actioninautism.org.za for a registration form. Places are limited to 40 people per workshop.

For more information about Action in Autism, the Skills Transference Workshops, or other services and support offered by the organisation, please call 031 207 4858 or email info@actioninautism.org.za.

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Artists for Autism – Comedy Night to raise funds for Action in Autism

Artists for Autism – Comedy Night to raise funds for Action in Autism

A bunch of local comedians will gather in force as Artists for Autism in a jam-packed comedy night to help raise funds for Action in Autism  on Friday, October 14 at 7pm at the George Campbell School Hall .

Action in Autism, which provides early intervention for 16 children under the age of 6 at their Centre in Sydenham, will host the Comedy Night with twelve local comedians featuring Analakshmi and Neil Green as the headline acts.  Comedians include Troy Tesla, SbuMnyandu, Mo Vawda, Kamz, Mathew, Mfundo, David M, Darryl, Xolani and Vanessa – who all bring their unique blend of humour to the stage for an evening of laughter and fun.

 “Action in Autism, besides running early interventions, also provides a free walk-in resource and support service, a free diagnostic clinic, and regular support group meetings for families of people with autism,” explains Chairperson Liza Aziz. “Many organisations such as ours are working with people with special needs and have no support whatsoever from government and we rely heavily on the goodwill of civil society for funds –  so we urge everyone needing some light relief to come join us for some fun and help us support people with autism. A special thanks to these artists who have agreed to help us with this fundraiser too!”

Snacks and refreshments will be on sale. All proceeds go to ensuring the continuation of Action in Autism’s services to the autistic community.

George Campbell High is at 261 Sylvester Ntuli Road, Durban. Tickets for the Artists for Autism Comedy Night are R120, and are available from the Action in Autism office and Computicket. For more information about Action in Autism and to secure your tickets, call 031 207 4858 or email info@actioninautism.org.za.

Ends.

Durban University of Technology’s third annual DigiFest (#DUTDigifest - Arts and Design Digital Festival) is set for 9 and 10 September.

Media Release

3rd #DUTDigifest

(Arts and Design Digital Festival)

9 – 10 September 2016

Durban University of Technology’s third annual DigiFest is set for 9 and 10 September. 

The University’s City Campus will open its doors to the public for a series of live art activations, exhibitions, innovations, panel discussions, workshops, music, theatre, poetry, comedy, dance, food and more.

The opening night, Friday 9 September, includes a DUT Alumni fundraising event for the ‘Missing Middle’ campaign - a funding support initiative for students. It also features live performance by the award-winning a-capella trio The Soil, and includes the launch of the 24th International Symposium on Electronic Art, (#ISEA2018), which takes place in Durban in 2018 - the first time on African soil. 

Several DUT academic programmes will participate in this year’s Digifest, alongside external partners and organisations working with digital technologies.  

Interior Design students present an exhibition of flat-pack lazer-cut chair prototypes, designed and manufactured in conjunction with Durban Art Deco Society and Makerspace Durban. 

Fine Art students research, map, manufacture and present a series of objects exclusively for the Digifest entitled no-tech to lo-tech. 

Bending Blackboards, an eLearning collection, includes work from practitioners interfacing with art, science and technology

The Journalism programme will present photo essays and short documentaries. Written, video and audio coverage of the DigiFest will be streamed on the Journalismiziko online publication and online radio.

The Rise of the OXX project returns in 2016 as an inter-departmental, collaborative project including Fashion & Textiles, Graphic Design, Jewellery Design and Interior Design departments in an exhibition and fashion show of innovation and inspiration.

In an exhibition entitled Perception, Jewellery Design students explore the interaction of their jewellery with the world, through a visual and audio installation. 

The Photography programme are working with 3D mapping artists to exhibit a selection of images, which will bring new life to parts of the campus.

Graphic Design students will exhibit portfolios that embrace a wide range of digital media for print or online publications, websites, online apps, animation, advertising, stationery, and other forms of visual communication. 

Live performance features at the sixth annual DUT Children’s Theatre Festival, a parallel event, which takes place at the Courtyard Theatre from 8 to 11 September. DigiFest will stage a satellite production from this festival of Looking for a Leader, and dance students from the Drama department will stage two dance performances.

Video Voyeur screenings will showcase the best music videos and dramas produced by Video Technology students.

The Language Practice department introduces #DigiWordPlay using humour, performance and mime to bring to life the meanings and interpretations of words within and across different languages. 

The Translation and Interpreting Practice programme will stage an installation to collect, translate and upload words in the theme of art, design and technology to the isiZulu online dictionary hosted by Oxford Living Dictionaries. 

Other highlights include:

Award-winning Digital artist and DUT Fashion Lecturer Nirma Madhoo-Chipps presents her latest work Labtayt Sulci. This series shot partially in Iceland is inspired by the NASA exploration of Enceladus, one of Jupiter’s moons, and extends the notion of the digital fashioned body - real or simulated; human or exobiological.

An exciting installation from the Maker Space, along with international contributors, will be capturing sound clips from the local space, converting these into a visual and three dimensional form and then converting that into a sculptural object and artwork.

Live art from Resoborg, Sketch Wars and others will adorn the campus walls. 

Performances by some top South African Artists, including The Soil, Felix Laband, Raheem Kemet, Easy Freak, DJ Lag, DJ Merlon, Strage and Nkululeko Dlamini. 

PechaKucha talk series returns on the subject of digital art, design and innovation. The speakers are selected from various background and this punchy talk format allows 20 x 20 second slides to guide the speakers. 

Talkfest hosts a number of workshops and panel discussions, with speakers from around South Africa, on various subjects from social innovation, art & data, 3D printing, digital design and social media. 

031 Entertainment presents local comedians for a short showcase and Art for Humanity will host a Poetry Session. 

DigiFest takes place at the DUT City Campus, Corner of Dr Pixley Ka Seme (formerly known as West Street) and Julius Nyerere (formerly known as Warwick Avenue) on Friday, 09 September from 12pm to 10pm, and on Saturday, September 10th from 10am to 10pm. All are welcome and entrance is free. The full programme will be released online on August 30th.

This year’s theme, “We are such stuff”, is taken from William Shakespeare’s The Tempest, in commemoration of the 400 year anniversary of his death. #‎Shakespeare400

DUT DigiFest is presented by the Faculty of Arts and Design at Durban University of Technology, with support from the Ethekwini Municipality.  

For more information go to  www.digifest.dut.ac.za

Instagram: dutdigifest_

Twitter: @DigitalArtFest 

Facebook: DUTDigiFest 

-ends

Media and Publicity: sharlene@versfeld.co.za / +27 (0) 31 811 5628 / +27 (0) 83 326 3235

Programme Information: andiled@dut.ac.za / +27 (0)31 373 6455

September 2, 1016

JOMBA! Opening Night Address by Lliane Loots

ADDRESS BY LLIANE LOOTS - Artistic Director of the JOMBA! Contemporary Dance Experience and lecturer in UKZN’s Drama and Performance Studies Programme at the opening of the 18th edition of the festival.

The 18th JOMBA! Contemporary Dance Experience hosted by the University of KwaZulu-Natal (College of Humanities) and its Centre for Creative Arts opened last night (24 August 2016). Artistic Director of the festival and lecturer in UKZN’s Drama and Performance Studies Programme gave the opening address. Below follows an edited version of it:

This has been an historic year for South Africa. We have had local elections that have begun to pointedly shift our political landscape. We have the continued emergence of defiant youth who are demanding what a liberation struggle’s Freedom Charter promised them – that the doors of learning should be open. We are realising how hard it is to find a new public protector who is not tainted, we have a public broadcaster making contested paternal decisions for us about what is deemed appropriate for us watch ... and we also had four beautiful young women stand silently to remember Khwezi and to remind our nation, 22 years into democracy, of a legacy of gender violence that sees 1 in 3 women face violent sexual abuse.

And in the background, in the academy, in cultural communities, in the political left of left, and with the trendy new elites, I hear the phrase “decolonise” – a kind of catch-word of post-colonial struggles. Reading Ngûgî wa Thiong’o in the mid-1980s was for me a political turning point and so when I hear “decolonise” being thrown out by the various political and struggle elites I own to a certain nostalgia of remembering a time of clear right and wrong.

As an artist and cultural activist, I have begun to wonder what “decolonise” means to me, to dance and indeed to a festival like JOMBA! It is best, of course, to go back to Ngûgî himself whose book did not just speak about “decolonising” but more specifically about “decolonising the mind”.

Wa Thiong’o wrote about what he called the biggest ‘cultural weapon’ wielded and daily unleashed by imperialism against an artistic collective defiance. This cultural weapon of the imperialist – for want of a better explanation, those who seek to rule by creating dependency - is what he called the “cultural bomb”.

The after effect of this Imperialist “cultural bomb” is to annihilate a people’s belief in their names, in their language, in their environment, in their heritage of struggle, in their unity, in their capacities, and ultimately in themselves. This cultural bomb, once exploded, makes us see our past as a wasteland of non-achievement and it makes us want to distance ourselves from this history of what seems local and thus like nothing worthwhile – it makes us want to identify with that which is furthest removed from ourselves.

This “cultural bomb” is not a bomb that goes off loudly; it does not fall from the sky from a foreign plane; it is more a quiet, silent amorphous bomb that goes off in fits and starts from within until, one day we wake up and find that we no longer know who we are, we no longer know what to think or feel and so we allow the machinations of international corporate and globalised capital tells us how to look, think, feel and love. We no longer have real memory and history because the endlessly re-written political and cultural version of who we are, are sold to us like truth. Our minds have been colonised as we have been taught to dream only of owning and having and no longer do we seek the discipline of being and doing.

And as I tonight claim Kenya’s Ngûgî as one of my political and cultural ancestors, I hope that he would look favourably on me extending his thoughts beyond just the colonising of the African mind through the Imperialist cultural bomb, to another terrain.

As a dancer and choreographer, as the artistic director of this festival for the Centre for Creative Arts, I am aware that I work in one of the most contested territories on the planet – the body. That most race and gender oppressions sits on the visceral lived body takes my work out of the abstractions of academic discussions of oppressions into the embodied reality of race and gender that sits on the skin.

What more profound way to fight the effects of the cultural bomb than to make, live and support an art form that decolonises the oppressed, globalised, racialised and abused body? This is the work of the contemporary dancer, the choreographer and the arts administrator that makes space for this war against cellular forgetting. This festival makes a dedicated effort to invite and partner with organisation, artist and dance companies who are using the voice of their physical art form, to break down stereotypes, to address embodied histories and memory, who physically deconstruct socially and culturally defined ways of being inside one’s skin, and who also, sometimes, decolonise a theatre space by asking us to watch dance in another site.

And so tonight, on behalf of the University of KwaZulu-Natal, our College of Humanities, and the School of the Arts, and Centre for Creative Arts, I welcome you to the 18th edition of the JOMBA! Contemporary Dance Experience - and reflect on the longevity of 18 magnificent years of embodied danced rebellion against the effects of the Imperialist cultural bomb.

We fight, through JOMBA!’s dedicated space of serious contemporary dance making, against being seduced into thinking dance is only reality competition shows on television that promises the winner fame and fortune.

We fight against being uninterested by the demands of contemporary art and dance because it asks us to think and feel and listen, - and sweat - we fight thus against participating in the slow death of critical arts; and with this, the death of our resistance.

I cannot thank you all enough for being here tonight and bodily sitting on a seat to support this space.

I want to end tonight with a jump back in history to a time when the very concept of Modern Dance was being born. I leave you tonight with the word of José Limon – the Mexican American immigrant who changed dance history forever. In 1956, he said;

“Never have the arts been so needed, nor so challenged, as in these times of mechanized bestiality, when the human species seems possessed by a suicidal frenzy.  The Dance can remind us of the greatness of humanities spirit, and of her creativeness.

The Dance is many things. It is a Power.  It can help stem the putrefaction and decay gnawing at the heart of human courage, and withstand the philosophies of doom and surrender.  The dancer can use her voice to call for reason out of unreason, and order out of disorder.  That has always been the high task of the artist. 

The contemporary artist and dancer can do no less than dedicate the power of her spirit and the flame of her art to bring light to the dark places”.

JOMBA runs until September 4. For the full programme go to www.cca.ukzn.ac.za

-ends

Maritzburg SPAR Women's 10/5km Race: Sunday 7 August - Road Closures and Race Route

Media Release

Pietermaritzburg: Sunday 7 August - ROAD CLOSURES AND RACE ROUTE

 

The running of the annual Maritzburg SPAR Women’s 10/5km race will be taking place in and around The Oval on Sunday 7 August.

With an expected field of 4,000 athletes that will take to the roads at 8.00am, the following roads will be affected for the duration of the race. 

Balmoral                                                                                           – closed from 04:00 – 11:00

Princess Margaret                                                                            – closed from 04:00 – 11: 00

Park Drive between Princess Margaret and Princess Elizabeth   - closed from 04:00 – 11:00

Princess Elizabeth                                                                              - closed from 04:00 – 11:00

Park Drive from College Rd to Princess Elizabeth                   - closed from 07:30 – 11:00

Alexandra Road from Cross Rd to Alan Paton Ave - closed (inbound only) from 07:30 – 10:00

Alan Paton Ave from Alexandra Rd to Burger St    - closed (inbound only) from 07:30 – 08:30

Alexandra Road will be closed in both directions from 08:00 until approximately 08:45 to accommodate the large field.

The race route is:

10km ROUTE

Start in Princess Margaret Drive outside Maritzburg College main rugby field (the full road width) 

Turn left into Alexandra Road (with the flow) 

Turn left into Alan Paton Avenue (with the flow) 

Turn left into Burger Street (with the flow)

Turn right into Peter Kerchhoff Street

Turn left into Jabu Ndlovu Street (on the left of the wall) 

Turn left into West Street (with the flow) 

Turn left into Park Drive (with the flow) 

Turn right through the Mayors garden (first gate) 

Turn right into Balmoral Drive

Turn right into Princess Margaret Drive

Turn left into Park Drive (with the flow)

Turn left into College Road (with the flow) 

Turn right into Topham Road (with the flow) 

Turn left into John Barker (with the flow) 

Turn left into Alexandra Road (with the flow) 

Turn left into Princess Margaret Drive

Turn right into Princess Elizabeth Drive

Turn left into Park Drive

Turn right into The Oval Cricket Stadium

5km Fun Run/Walk ROUTE

Start in Princess Margaret Drive outside Maritzburg College main rugby field (the full road width) 

Turn left into Alexandra Road (with the flow) 

Turn left into Alan Paton Avenue (with the flow) 

Turn left into Burger Street (with the flow) 

Turn right into Peter Kerchhoff Street

Turn left into Jabu Ndlovu Street (on the left of the wall) 

Turn left into West Street (with the flow) 

Turn left into Park Drive (with the flow) 

Turn left into The Oval Cricket Stadium

Entries can only be done now at Race Registration on Friday 5 August from 10am to 5pm and Saturday 6 August from 10am to 3pm at the Oval. 

Entries are open to all from ages of 15 going up, in both the 5km and 10km races. Entry fees are R70 for the 10km licensed athletes and for the 5km runners. R80 is the entry fee for the Non-licensed athletes; the extra R10 includes a temporary licence for the day. 

For more info contact the race organisers on maritzburg@sparwomensrace.co.za or visit the official race on www.sparwomensrace.co.za or like the Facebook page.

-ends

SPAR KZN School Girls' Hockey Wrap Up for Grand Finals

SPAR KZN School Girls’ Hockey

Wrap Up for Grand Finals

St Mary’s DSG: 23 & 24 July

The wet weather didn’t dampen the spirits, or the action at the Grand Finals of this year’s SPAR KZN School Girls’ Hockey Challenge with St Mary’s DSG taking the win in determined fashion on their home turf.

Meeting the defending champions, the host school St Mary’s took on Durban Girls’ College in the gold silver game. After thirty minutes of superb flowing play, with both teams sharing equal possession, the score was level on nil nil with the 2016 winner being decided in a penalty shoot-out. 

First to go were College, missing their 8 second penalty. Leah Piggott representing Saints was first in line for her team and didn’t manage to capitalise on College’s miss. The final four rolling penalties went Saints way, with College unable to penetrate Sarah Cromie’s solid presence in goals in their two attempts. Vice-Captain for St Mary’s DSG, Tegan Fourie put the first points up on the board, followed up by Kiana Cormack slotting in her team’s second.  The final score was 2-0 to Saints. 

The two giants of the tournament had met earlier in the pool games with Saints managing to win that game 1-0 with their feisty Vice-Captain netting the all-important goal. In their fifth appearance of the tournament, this is the second time St Mary’s DSG have won. Their first time was in 2012, also tallying up a bronze in 2011 and 2013 and a fourth place last year.

It was not to be for Durban Girls’ College. In their sixth appearance, College were hoping to make this their fourth title in a row, with gold in 2013, 2014 and 2015. The team representing the Durban Central Regional ended their pool games second behind St Mary’s, but tied on points with the hard-working team from King Edward High School. Both College and King Edward finished the pool games on 9points with College advancing to the final having scored more goals. 

In the bronze medal game, it was a Pietermaritzburg derby with St Anne’s and Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High duelling it out on the astro. In their second meeting of the tournament, St Anne’s managed to clinch the win to claim bronze. In their first meeting, captain for St Anne’s, Julia Saulez found the back of the net to put her team 1-0 up in an exciting conclusion to the Pool B games. 

After half an hour in the bronze final, the whistle went for full time with the score sitting on nil nil. Both teams first attempts didn’t manage to find the back of the net, with Girls’ High second attempt also not troubling the scorers. St Anne’s Daniella Rhodes put her team one up with her penalty shot. Levelling the scores for Girls’ High, Nandi Ngubane gave her team a chance. With the pressure on, St Anne’s Steph Wenke got shut down by goalie, Nox Manele with the score now level. 

The game moved on to sudden death with St Anne’s Captain Julia Saulez leading by example and scoring. Then vibrant keeper for St Anne’s, Megan Rebstein-Dovey rose to the occasion, not allowing the first and final shot in the sudden death to pass her, giving her team the title of bronze winners.

Rob Philipson, MD for SPAR KZN stated, “After 29 games this weekend, 160 young ladies can be extremely proud of themselves for their achievement. Each and every one of the players battled the chilly weather and did so superbly. They not only represented their school, but their region with great pride and grace. Well done ladies to your successes at this wonderful tournament.”

A new initiative this year was the inclusion of a hockey bursary by Varsity College. With the decision being extremely difficult this year, the college awarded two bursaries. The announcement was made at the prize giving, with the recipients being invited to study and play for Varsity College. The two bursary winners were Tegan Fourie from St Mary’s DSG and Courtney Slaney from Westville Girls’ High School.

At the prize-giving, Tournament Director, Les Galloway said, “Ladies, you entertained us this weekend with a display of phenomenal skill and talent on the turf. To St Mary’s DSG, well done on your win. I believe, looking at the score lines, the standard of hockey is certainly improving in our province. A team like King Edward played impressively keeping hockey playing school, College to a draw. Another outlying school, Wartburg also impressed, giving it their absolute all this year. It is a joy to see our great game of hockey winning at the end of the day!”

Results

1 St Mary’s DSG, 2 Durban Girls’ College, 3 St Anne’s College, 4 Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High, 5 Wartburg Kirchdorf School, 6 King Edward High School, 7 Ashton International College, 8 Grantleigh College, 9 Sarel Cilliers High School, 10 Amanzimtoti High School.

Scores

Pool Games

St Mary’s DSG 2 vs Grantleigh School 0

Sarel Cilliers High School 0 – King Edward High School 2

St Anne’s DSG 4 – Amanzimtoti High School 0

Wartburg Kirchdorf School 0 – Ashton International College 0

Grantleigh School 0 – Durban Girls’ College 2

St Mary’s DSG 5 – Sarel Cilliers High School 0

Amanzimtoti High School 0 – Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High School 1

St Anne’s College 4 – Wartburg Kirchdorf School 0

Durban Girls’ College 0 – King Edward High School 0

Grantleigh School 0 – Sarel Cilliers High School 0

Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High 0 – Ashton International College 0

Amanzimtoti High School 0 – Wartburg Kirchdorf School 2

Sarel Cilliers High School 0 – Durban Girls’ College 5

King Edward High School 0 – St Mary’s DSG 2

Wartburg Kirchdorf School 0 – Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High School 1

Ashton International College 1 – St Anne’s College 3

Durban Girls’ College 0 – St Mary’s DSG 1

King Edward High School 2 – Grantleigh School 1

Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High School 0 – St Anne’s College 1

Ashton International College 0 – Amanzimtoti High School 0

Play-Offs

Grantleigh 0 – Wartburg Kirchdorf School 6

King Edward High School 1 (3) – Ashton International College 1 (2)

Durban Girls’ College 0 (3) – St Anne’s College 0 (2)

St Mary’s DSG 2 – Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High School 1

Sarel Cilliers High School 2 – Amanzimtoti High School 0

Grantleigh School 0 – Ashton International College 1

Wartburg Kirchdorf School 1 – King Edward High School 0

St Anne’s DSG 0 (2) – Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High School 0 (1)

Durban Girls’ College 0 (0) – St Mary’s DSG 0 (2)

ENDS

What's Happening in Durban & KZN

KZN Theatre, Arts & Events Diary

Week of Thursday 14 July, 2016

Prepared by Publicity Matters (see all their details at end of this listing for interviews and queries)

Family Holiday Theatre:

Buddy Holly

Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre: 23 July – 7 August

This July, Durban audiences can enjoy the story of pioneering rock legend, Buddy: the Buddy Holly Story at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre from 23 July – 7 August

Catalina UnLtd, continuing in the great tradition, presents the smash-hit musical, Buddy: the Buddy Holly Story. This production, under the capable direction of Themi Venturas, brings together a top professional team. The show is filled with toe tapping hits including Buddy Holly classics like That’ll be the day, Everyday, Oh Boy! Maybe Baby, Peggy Sue, Big Bopper’s Chantilly Lace, Ritchie Valens’ smash hit La Bamba and Chuck Berry’s Johnny B Goode. Audiences can expect a rocking and rollicking fun show that tells the story of an amazing music industry legend whose life was tragically cut short. 

Bookings are through Computicket with discounted performances at 02.30pm and 07.00pm Sat 23 and 2.30pm Sun 24 July at R70. General public performances at R120 are from 26 July – 7 August at 07.00pm. Schools performances (R50 per learner) are at 02.30pm on 29 July and 2 & 4 August. Booking for schools can be done through the company, email info@catalinatheatre.com for more information.

Theatre:

Lenny

Playhouse Drama Theatre: 21 - 31 July

A powerful new play commemorating the life of former political activist Lenny Naidu is to be staged in the Playhouse Drama theatre this month. Written and narrated by Jayshree Parasuramen and starring Rahul Brijnath, Lenny tells a moving human story about a man who gave his life for to the struggle for freedom of the people of South Africa. Directed by Themi Venturas, the production’s world premiere season takes place in the Playhouse Drama Theatre in Durban from 21 to 31 July 2016.

“Whilst Lenny is a story based in the history and facts of the ANC stalwart Lenny Naidu who was killed during the latter years of apartheid by the Third Force based at Vlakplaas, the story is also universal. It is about families who are torn apart by history unfolding, and those that are left behind. It is about chance, but most of all it is about one human’s propensity for brutality on another - the sort of brutality that was inflicted by the apartheid era, or the holocaust, or the Russian pogroms, or the killing fields of Cambodia,” said Jayshree Parasuramen

Show times in the Playhouse Drama are as follows: 21 July at 7.30pm (opening); 22 July at 7.30pm; 23 July at 3pm and 7.30pm; 27 and 28 July at 11am (schools performances); 30 July at 3pm and 7.30pm; with a final performance on Sunday 31 July at 3pm. Tickets are R120 for the public performances of Lenny. Booking is through Computicket on 0861 915 8000 or online at www.computicket.com. Alternatively call the Playhouse Box Office on 031-369 9540 or 369 9596 (office hours). Tickets for the school performances are R30 per learner.   To secure school bookings, call 072 9260692 or 083 610 9931 or 031 826 5585 (o/h).

Sweetie Darling

Playhouse Loft Theatre: 19 - 24 July

Copy Dog in association with The Playhouse Company proudly presents Sweetie Darling, a new one-man stage comedy by multiple award-winning playwright-director Clinton Marius (Lollipop Lane, The Fantastical Flea Circus, B!*ch Stole My Doek). Starring the popular Durban actor, Bongani Mbatha, Sweetie Darling will play in The Loft Theatre from 19 to 24 July 2016.

Sweetie Darling is a romantic comedy about a young man who goes all out to prove himself.  While he sets up a picnic in the park for his sweetheart, he recounts the ups and downs of his journey to happiness.  As he finds himself, and love, he also finds his path to spiritual growth. 

Performances of Sweetie Darling in the Loft Theatre will be at 7.30pm from Tuesday to Saturday, 19 to 23 July, and at 2.30pm on Sunday 24 July. Tickets are R50 (Tuesday and Wednesday performances) and R85 (Friday to Sunday). Booking is through Computicket on 0861 915 8000 or at www.computicket.com. Bookings can also be made via the Playhouse Box Office on 031-369 9540 (office hours). 

“Sometimes, life isn’t simply black and white.”

Waiting for Nelson

Courtyard Theatre: Sat 23 July at 6pm

East London born and Johannesburg based actor, writer and director Mbasa Tsetsana will be bringing his award winning production, Waiting for Nelson, to the DUT’s Department of Drama and Production Studies to the Courtyard theatre at Saturday 23 July at 7pm. 

This professional staging will be doubled billed with a student version of Waiting for Nelson under the direction of DUT directing student Sphephelo Dlamini. Audiences will have the rare opportunity to see two versions of the same production performed one after the other with an interval in-between. The second version will be followed by a Q&A with writer, directors and cast.

For more information contact the Departmental Secretary, Lebohang Sibisi on (031) 3732194 / lebohangs@dut.ac.za. Tickets are R30 at the door, students R20. 

Early Bird tickets for Tim Plewman’s

Defending the Caveman

Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre: 6 – 17 Sept

There are early bird specials for tickets to Tim Plewman’s fabulous one man show:  Defending the Caveman – with 20% off the ticket price throughout July

Tim Plewman, by public demand, once again dons the Caveman’s skins and steps onto stage to add to his record breaking slew of sold out performances of the longest-running and most successful solo comedy in South African theatre history. The Broadway production still holds the record of the longest running non- musical solo comedy of all time. What more can be said about this wonderful show that so humorously exposes the hunter and gatherer in us all and has played to over a million people?

Tickets through Computicket, with 20% off the ticket price throughout July.

AIDS2016:

HIV/AIDS Creatives for AIDS2016

AIDS2016: the world's largest global health conference, now significantly in its 21st year, returns to our shores, monopolising the public spaces, media and mind-set of Durban from 18 – 22 July. At that time, the global creative community, taking the lead from Durban creatives, will be hosting a myriad project, events, exhibitions and engagements which talk to an HIV/AIDS theme.

Through Positive Eyes

Durban Art Gallery: from 17 July

Award-winning photographer Gideon Mendel and UCLA professor David Gere have, for the last 10 years, been building Through Positive Eyes, a participatory photography project in which people living with HIV and AIDS (PLWHA) share their stories in the form of photos, video, and narrative. 

The project has now culminated in a multi-faceted Through Positive Eyes exhibition, to be shown throughout the southern African region, the European Union, and the United States, beginning in July 2016 and continuing through 2020. 

The exhibition in its current form has been curated by David Gere (Los Angeles), Stan Pressner (New York) and Carol Brown (Durban).

Artivist

Durban Art Gallery: from 17 July

Complementing Through Positive Eyes, there will be additional artworks on display at DAG: artists include artists Daniel Goldstein (San Francisco) whose sculptural Medicine Man is an iconic image and will be included with mandala-like presentations of photographs.   Gordon Mundie (London) has created a “bag of shame” and an interactive stigma installation using UV light and invisible ink and New Delhi-based curator Parthiv Shah’s contribution is a beautiful series of hand-made books displayed as artworks.  The team of artivists have chosen favorite images from the project and included other works giving these images their own individualistic spin. The exhibition culminates in a gallery transformed into a small theater, in which a sophisticated sound-and-light show, designed by New York theatrical designer Stan Pressner, is enacted, entiled “Banishing Stigma.” 

The exhibition in its current form has been curated by David Gere (Los Angeles), Stan Pressner (New York) and Carol Brown (Durban).

The Butterfly Project

Denis Hurley Centre: for Aids2016

The Butterfly Project is a project initiative of the US Consulate Durban, the Denis Hurley Centre and the office of the Premier, funded by the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), aimed at getting KZNs teenagers involved in AIDS2016 to envision an AIDS free generation. 

100 young people a day, over six days, have created butterflies out of recyled plastic in workshops at the Denis Hurley Centre in the heart of Durban working towards a huge public art installation which is now on display at the DHC over AIDS2016 before being dismantled and elements sent for display at participating communities. Alongside the butterfly-making workshops, DramAidE and facilitators affirmed the health education message that behavioural change is necessary to work towards an AIDS free generation. 

For more info, contact Seth Pyoos on tel: 031 301 2240 or seth@denishurleycentre.org.

South African Voices: 

Towards a Museum of HIV Memory and Learning

KwaMuhle Museum: now open

South African Voices: Towards a Museum of HIV Memory and Learning is a collection of artefacts, artistic, historic and photographic items that pay tribute to those who suffered and succumbed, and those who live with HIV every day in South Africa.

South African Voices is a partnership project between eThekwini Municipality, Avacarehealth and info4africa. It will be situated at KwaMuhle Local History Museum, on Bram Fischer Road. This is adjacent to the AIDS2016 Conference parking.

“Created as a legacy project of AIDS2016, South African Voices documents a critical and defining chapter in our collective history in South Africa.  It offers all people space to celebrate the achievements and reflect on the journey we have taken from the dark days of denialism and calls to "Break the Silence" at AIDS2000, to having the largest HIV treatment programme in the world,” says project director, info4africa’s Debbie Heustice.

Make a Plan: 

Possibility and Empowerment in a Time of AIDS

South African Voices: Thursday 21 July at 6.30pm

David Patient and partner Neil Orr will be launching their eighth book: Make a Plan: Possibility and Empowerment in a Time of AIDS, in Durban on Thursday 21 July as one of the events which form part of the opening season of South African Voices: Towards a Museum of HIV Memory and Learning at KwaMuhle Museum.

David Patient is well known throughout southern Africa for education and wellness programmes addressing HIV and AIDS. His work with partner Neil Orr has gone beyond teaching people how to get and stay healthy. Through personal interface and eight books, Patient and Orr have taught millions that the path to long-term health is travelled best through living a life of purpose and meaning. Positive Health has sold 20 million copies. They have trained tens of thousands in workshops and reached millions through popular broadcast media programmes. 

David’s personal story also features in South African Voices: Towards a Museum of HIV Memory and Learning. Also available will be the seventh revised edition of their best seller, Positive Health.

In My Own Voice

Playhouse Opera: 21 – 24 July   

In My Own Voice, a courageous new musical by Musa Njoko chronicling her challenges of living with and surviving HIV Aids for 22 years, is to be staged in the Playhouse Opera theatre in Durban. Presented by Musa Njoko Music and Entertainment in association with the Playhouse Company, and supported by Ethekwini Municipality, the production runs from 21 – 24 July.   

Veteran AIDS Activist Musa Njoko who in 1994 was one of the first people to consciously and publicly disclose her HIV status, has crafted an original musical theatre production which chronicles her astonishing life. In her production, In My Own Voice, she shares her triumphs and challenging personal journey as one of the country’s earliest AIDS activists. 

Show times for In My Own Voice in the Playhouse Opera Theatre are at 7pm on Thursday and Friday, 21 and 22 July, at 3pm and 7pm on Saturday 23 July, with a final matinee performance on Sunday 24 July at 3pm. Tickets are R120 per person (R60 pensioners and students). Booking is through Computicket outlets at branches of Shoprite Checkers, or telephonically on 0861 915 8000, or online at www.computicket.com. Alternatively, bookings can be made by callingthe Playhouse Box Office on 031-369 9540 or 031-369 9596 (office hours).

Music:

Kloof Musical Pops

St Agnes Church Hall, Kloof: Friday, 29 July

On Friday, 29 July, at St Agnes Auditorium in Kloof , the Rotary club of Kloof will present the Kloof Musical Pops. The first half of the programme will feature The KZN Youth Orchestra conducted by Lyk Temmingh performing symphonic greats such as Handel's La Rejouissance, Brahms' Hungarian Dance no 5, The Radetsky March, and some popular tunes such as Sway, Can't Take my eyes off you and  New York New York . 

The second half of the programme will get yourhands clapping and toes tapping as Platform Jazz puts a swing on the evening andpresents big band greats such as Mack the Knife, What a wonderful world and In the Mood . Led by Cathy “Hotlips” Peacock, the band will also feature Melvin Peters, Bruce Baker, Duncan Wooldridge, Kirsten Sayers, Andreas Kappen, Jeff Judge and Shelley McLean.

The evening will start at 6.30pm and will be set up in supper theatre style for patrons to bring picnics and drinks. Ticket prices are R150 and R130 for pensioners and students. Booking is through Computicket. Proceeds of the evening will go to the 110 year old Kloof Rest Home which is in urgent need of repair.

Quark: Friday 15 July

Alliance Française de Durban Activities: Fri 15 July  
The Alliance Française will also be hosting Quark on Friday 15 July at 7pm. Quark is collaboration between two musicians from very different backgrounds, Fiona Tozer (guitar) and Dan Wilson (bass). The duo will be bringing the Jazz and Folk genres together to create an eclectic sound with lyrical content relating to the story of the human race and its place in the cosmos Quark is a unique experience that will leave you wanting more. 

For more info: Alliance Française de Durban : 22 Sutton Crescent, Corner Lilian Ngoyi (Windermere) Road, Morningside / Tel : 031 312 9582 / Contact Denise (Administrator) at afdbn@global.co.za or Frédérique (Course Coordinator) at courses.afdbn@alliance.org.za
Website: http://www.alliance.org.za/durban/

Rowan Stuart embarks on national Winter Tour

In association with Concerts SA, Durban's Soul Folk singer-songwriter-guitarist Rowan Stuart will be embarking on a multi-province tour this month, with performances in Gauteng, the Free State, the Northern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, joined by Andy Turrell on bass guitar.

Rowan has created an inimitable brand of Soul Folk music, with pop and world influences. Recalling Sting's imaginative storytelling, Death Cab for Cutie's sense of space and beauty, and John Mayer's tight grooves, Rowan uses his notable prowess on the guitar as the foundation for his creativity.

Artist Links

Website: www.rowanstuart.com

Reverbnation: www.reverbnation.com/rowanstuart

YouTube: www.youtube.com/rowanstuartvideo  

Facebook: www.facebook.com/rowanstuartmusic  

iTunes: www.itunes.com/rowanstuart  

Instagram: www.instagram.com/rowanstuartmusic  

Events Listing

Port Shepstone – South Coast Lions Show

Friday 15 July – 6pm –R50 (adults) / R25 (under 18’s and pensioners) / Free (under 12’s)

Address: Port Shepstone Country Club, Old Saint Faiths Rd

Bookings: lionsshow@sheppielions.co.za / 083 301 2883

Community:

Get Involved: IBV Children’s VIP Day

Durban Exhibition Centre: 13 August

The seventh annual Children’s VIP Day hosted by the International Bank Vaults at the Durban Exhibition Centre on Saturday 13 August. The special day invites over 3,000 less privileged children from Durban and surrounds to the DEC where they will be treated to a day of interactive fun, treats, games and pampering in the company of sports stars and entertainment celebrities as part of IBV, through their IBV Humanities Division. 

The organisers are encouraging businesses of all sizes to get involved, donate! If it is stock or even your time, there are 3,000 children that will truly appreciate it! A little will sincerely go a long way! They are setting up book and stationary drop off stations so members of the public can donate their learning materials, books etc. The two venues will be IBV International Vaults at Gateway and at the Pavilion Hotel near North Beach.

To get involved, contact Shivani Gosai on 031 566 3984 / shivani@ibvglobal.com.

For more info: Visit www.ibvinternationalvaults.com. Or watch https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tToRlHdYW9s

Art:

There Are Places I Remember

Durban Art Gallery: now open

There Are Places I Remember (Hidden memory: Places of our city) is an exhibition art project between the sister cities Bremen/Germany and Durban/South Africa

Working with the subject of art and memory, 11 visual artists from Bremen focus on places in Bremen, each of which –apart from the tourist attractions in the city– has a special meaning for the corresponding artist. The involved artists had previously taken part in various ways in the Culture-Exchange project The Designing of the Concordia Tunnel 2012 realized between the two cities. The artists’ work on the theme by utilizing various media: painting, photography, printing, installation, collage and video. The results are on currently on an exhibition at the Durban Art Gallery. 

Supper Theatre / Musical Revues:

All of Me

Rhumbelow Durban: 15, 16, 17 July

A show with Melanie Roberts in her inimitable diva style. Shemual Mahabeer on piano. At last! Melanie performs her first ever solo show in 33 years of being in showbiz. 4 countries, 200 shows some devised and written by herself and over 400 corporates has brought her to now...go solo.

A kaleidescope of songs from the 40's to now, combined with her cabaret and musical theatre songs and into the pot an array of styles from pop to swing, jazz to ballads.....all woven together with her irreverent wit, conversations with the audience and anecdotes from 33 years of performing.  Expect to hear Elton John, Billy Joel, Elvis, Ed Sheeran, Gloria Gaynor, Turner, Bruno Mars, George Gershwin, Sting, Carpenters, Ella Fitzgerald, Carole King, James Brown, Cole Porter, Beatles....and much more.  

Gowns are by Karen Monk Klijnstra and hair by Faye @ Hoi Polloi. Book at Computicket or phone or email Roland for bookings. Email : roland@stansell.za.net / events.durbantheatre.com / Cell 0824998636.

Clive Scott in Warts and All

Rhumbelow Durban: 22, 23, 24 July

Clive Scott has always made people laugh, whether it was as Ted Dixon (aka “Hey Stupid!”) in The Villagers and Isidingo or in his various roles in “Oh George”, “Life Begins at 40”, “The John Ross Story” and “River Horse Lake”. You just have to look at him…

Now, this beloved South African veteran of stage and screen has gathered all his experience, wisdom, funniness and poignancy to bring you a one-man show encompassing all of it. 

Clive Scott stars in his autobiographical one man show, Warts and All, An iconictribute to some of South Africa’s best loved theatre moments, you had better bring the tissues – for the tears of laughter that are sure to roll.

Friday 22 – Sun 24 July. R 140-00 a ticket; Bring food picnic baskets; Discounts R 120-00 a ticket. Pensioners & Block Bookings 8 or more; Bar Available;  Book at Computicket or Phone or email Roland for bookings Cell 0824998636 / email roland@stansell.za.net /    events.durbantheatre.com.

Magical Mayhem

Rhumbelow Durban: 29, 30, 31 July

The South African Magical Society (S.A.M.S.) hosts its annual showcase highlighting the best of Durban’s magical talent. The show, titled Magical Mayhem has many brand new facets for patrons to enjoy. The show’s producer, Ricki Gray, already no stranger to Durban audiences, explains that the family friendly show is designed to attract audiences that have enjoyed previous shows hosted by S.A.M.S. as well as attract new audiences. “There are many new surprises in store,” explains Ricki. “For example, this year Roland Stansell, long-time member of the magical society, is hosting the show as Grand Panto Dame, Miss Direction.”

The show will feature both amateur and professional magicians and will include a variety of magical acts, from illusions to cards and from mentalism to comedy. By popular demand, once again, magicians will not only be performing on stage, but at the tables. This style of magic, called close-up or intimate magic will allow audiences to experience magic like never before; up close and personal.

R 140-00 a ticket; Pensioners and Block Bookings (8 or more) R 120-00;  Children (under 13) R 70-00

Bring food picnic baskets; Burgers & Chips etc on Sale; Bar Available;  Book at Computicket or Phone or email Roland for bookings Cell 0824998636 / email roland@stansell.za.net /    events.durbantheatre.com.

Ends

PHOTOS ARE AVAILABLE ON REQUEST & FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Publicity Matters or visit www.pubmat.co.za

Information correct at time of distribution

Illa Thompson
Publicity Matters

arts, theatre, culture, festival, social justice, sports and events publicists

tel / fax 031 201 1638
mobile 083 326 3234
illa@pubmat.co.za

roaming pubmatgal@gmail.com

www.pubmat.co.za

twitter @pubmat

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Durban International Film Festival Announces Award Winners for 2016

Durban International Film Festival Announces Award Winners for 2016

The Durban International Film Festival announced its award-winners tonight (June 25) at the closing ceremony of the festival’s 37th edition at the Playhouse prior to the screening of the closing film, The Space in Between – Marina Abramovic and Brazil.

The award for the Best Feature Film went to The Violin Player directed by Bauddhayan Mukherji.

The jury’s citation said: “A seductive and mysterious tale of a violin player’s mundane life and an interesting take on how chance encounters are almost predestined. By successfully weaving offbeat editing, brave cinematography, simple screenplay, honest direction and a lot of surprising elements, the film shows us that art, no matter how unimportant it may seem, can change peoples lives. “

The award for Best South African Feature Film went to Tess (a 2013 Durban FilmMart project), directed by Meg Rickards, which the jury described as “a measured and uncompromising debut feature.”

The Best Documentary award went to Martha and Niki directed by Tora Mkandawire Martens, which the jury describes as “visual feast that skillfully intertwines a profound reflection on (an) art form with the inner journey of two compelling characters.”

The jury made a special mention of Action Commandante, also a former Durban FilmMart project, by Nadine Cloete, for “its exceptional quality and commitment to its subject matter.”

The Best SA Documentary went to The Journeymen, directed by Sean Metelerkamp. The citation from the jurors said “The Journeymen takes an unflinching look at who we are by holding up the proverbial mirror to South African society. The honesty, bravery and commitment of the film crew results in a mosaic picture of our country with warts and all. This is strong and uncompromising cinema that is simultaneously disturbing and life-affirming.”

Best Short Film went to Grandma's Day (Dzie'n Babci) directed by Milosz Sakowski. The jury also made special mention in this category of the film Ave Maria directed by Basil Khalil.

The Best African Short Film Award, which is supported by the Gauteng Film Commission, went to New Eyes directed by Hiwot Admasu.

eKhaya (Home), directed by Shubham Mehta won the Best South African Short Film award, which is also supported by the Gauteng Film Commission.

The shorts jury also made special mention of two other films in this category - Amagugu directed by Ndududo Shandu and Discovery of Fire directed by Gerhard Pretorius.

The Best Actor Award went to Mohsen Namjoo for his performance in Radio Dream, directed by Babak Jalali. The award for Best Actress went to Christia Visser for her role as Tess in Tess directed by Meg Rickards.

The awards for Best Direction went to Ciro Guerra for Embrace Of The Serpent, Best Cinematography to  Chris Lotz for The Endless River and Best Screenplay went to Ciro Guerra and Thoedor Koch-Grunberg for Embrace of The Serpent.

A new award, the Best Editing , sponsored by SAGE (South Africa Guild of Editors), went to the to Tess which was edited by Linda Man. The award for Artistic Bravery was given to Neon Bull directed by Gabriel Mascaro for its unique portrayal of a little-known community of Brazilian Rodeo workers.

The Amnesty International Durban Human Rights Award for the film that best reflects human rights issues which comes with a cash prize  donated by the Artists for the Human Rights Trust went to Noma, directed by Pablo Pineda.

The international jury this year was made up of four jurors: Bianca Balbuena, an award-wining producer from the Philippines, Fibby Kioria, the programme director of Maisha Foundation, an initiative founded by Mira Nair to empower visionary filmmakers in Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda, Sherif Awad  a film critic who currently works for the Luxor African Film Festival and Trevor Steele Taylor  a veteran of  festivals in South Africa, having programmed for the Cape Town International Film Festival, the Weekly Mail & Guardian Film Festival and DIFF and is the curator for film the National Arts Festival. 

The South African feature film jury consisted of film-makers Jahmil Qubeka and Melissa Parry while the documentary jurors were film-makers Rehad Desai, Omelga Mthiyane and Riaan Hendricks, and the short film jurors were film-makers Neil Coppen and Sumayya Rawat.

The Amnesty Jury consisted of Coral Vinsen, Nonhlanha Mkhize, Betty Rawheath and Mark Povall.

The audience choice awards for DIFF and for the Wavescape Film Festival will be announced on Monday.

Sunday is the last day of the festival. For more information go to www.durbanfilmfest.co.za for details of the remaining screenings.

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DIFF and SAGE announce Editing Awards

Media Release

DIFF AND SAGE ANNOUNCE EDITING AWARDS

The South African Guild of Editors (SAGE) has announced that the Durban International Film Festival (DIFF) has included an award for best editing this year. The American Cinema Editors (ACE) has over a number of years campaigned for the inclusion of a Film Editing awards category at international film festivals. In support of this initiative, SAGE consulted with the DIFF management team in early 2016, and the festival has decided to implement an award for Best Editor for this year’s festival.

"We appreciate everyone’s contribution to this success—most notably the American Cinema Editors for their petition for editors’ recognition at top-tier international film festivals. Further support came from the American Motion Picture Editors Guild, as well as several other international guilds and societies, presenting an unprecedented alliance for the recognition of the editor in the filmmaking process.” says SAGE Chairperson Marina du Toit.

In addition, DIFF has included Melissa Parry (Vice-chairperson) of SAGE as a judge on the South African jury, where she will be able to bring her considerable editing expertise to the judging process. "SAGE members’ contributions to the filmmaking process are recognised through the selection of their films at many international film festivals, including numerous films selected for DIFF,” says Parry. “We are pleased to recognise the work of two SAGE editors in this year’s festival,” says du Toit. “This year, three of the selected films at DIFF have SAGE editors: Khalid Shamis who, edited The Unseen and Action Commandant, which was a Durban FilmMart project and Nikki Comninos who edited Tarryn Crossman’s  Timelines."

SAGE has developed a close collaborative relationship with DIFF since 2012, aiming to further promote editors and the craft of editing at the festival. We value the huge contribution DIFF makes to our local film industry, and look forward to a fruitful relationship going forward.” says du Toit. "Advocating for editors’ recognition is an ongoing process and we urge our members to continue supporting our endeavours to obtain further recognition at other film festivals.”

“We are pleased to be able to offer an award this year for editing, which is a critical element of the whole creative process,” says Acting Festival Manager of DIFF, Peter Machen. “Sadly, editing is often overlooked in the filmmaking process, yet sensitive and astute editing is a vital part of the product.”

The Durban International Film Festival takes place from 16-26 June 2016. The Festival includes nearly 200 theatrical screenings, as well as the Wavescape Film Festival and various industry initiatives, including the 9th Talents Durban programme (in cooperation with the Berlin Talent Campus) and the 7th Durban FilmMart co-production market (in partnership with the Durban Film Office).

The 37th Durban International Film Festival is organised by the Centre for Creative Arts at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, with support from the National Film and Video Foundation, Durban Film Office, eThekwini Municipality, German Embassy, Goethe Institut, KwaZulu-Natal Department of Arts and Culture and a range of other valued partners. 

Sharlene Versfeld

Versfeld & Associates

Public Relations and Communications

Mobile: +27 (0) 83 326 3235

Tel: +27 (0) 31 811 5628

Post: P O Box 30547, Mayville, 4058

Email: sharlene@versfeld.co.za

Twitter: sharlvers

Website: www.versfeld.co.za

Award winning South African documentary at DIFF

Media Release

Award winning South African documentary at DIFF

The South African documentary Lost Tongue, winner of the Women Film Critics Circle Award, is set to screen at the 37th Durban International Film Festival (DIFF) which takes place from June 16 and 26.

The feature-length documentary film draws attention to the plight of South Africa’s indigenous and marginalized Khomani San people and their desperate efforts to save their almost extinct N/uu language, with only three elderly people still speaking it. Lost Tongue follows the journey of Helena Steenkamp in her efforts to learn and save the language culture and values.

The film, directed by Davison Mudzingwa and produced by Mvura Ya Afrika Productions, received the prestigious Women Film Critics Circle Award after its premiere at the SR Socially Relevant Film Festival New York in March this year, and has had sold out screenings at the Encounters South African International Documentary Film Festival. "We are excited to be part of DIFF,” said Mudzingwa. “We consider it to be the annual mecca for film in Africa and the fact that Lost Tongue is screening at DIFF is something we deeply cherish. The film that resonates with all of us as it speaks about the core aspects of our being as humans: identity, language and culture."

Lost Tongue, which is in competition at DIFF, will have three screenings during the festival. The opening screening will be on Friday, June 17, at 8.30pm at Musgrave Ster Kinekor, Wednesday, June 22, at 10pm at the Luthuli Museum in Groutville, and on Sunday, June 26, at8pm at Nu Metro Pavilion.

SAE Institute Cape Town, the world’s largest creative media educational institute, is partnering with MYA Productions to co-host the screening of the film. 

The film has been supported by Entrepreneurship Africa (EA) and the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF).

For more information about the DIFF go to www.durbanfilmfest.co.za.

The Durban International Film Festival takes place from 16-26 June 2016. The Festival includes more than 250 theatrical screenings, as well as the Wavescape Film Festival and various industry initiatives, including the 9th Talents Durban programme (in cooperation with the Berlin Talent Campus) and the 7th Durban FilmMart co-production market (in partnership with the Durban Film Office).

The 37th Durban International Film Festival is organised by the Centre for Creative Arts at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, with support from the National Film and Video Foundation, Durban Film Office, eThekwini Municipality, German Embassy, Goethe Institut, KwaZulu-Natal Department of Arts and Culture and a range of other valued partners.

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37th Durban International Film Festival: Free Public Screenings

Media Release

37th Durban International Film Festival: Free Public Screenings

The Durban International Film Festival, which takes place from June 16 to 26, will host a series of free public screenings. The DIFF will travel to Clermont, Kwangcolosi, Inanda, Umlazi, KwaMashu and the city centre, where people will have the opportunity to watch this year’s opening night film The Journeymen as well as the comedy - Wonder Boy for President, starring Kagiso Lediga.

The Journeymen is a documentary filmed in 2014, the year in which South Africa celebrated 20 years of democracy and mourned Nelson Mandela’s death. The film chronicles the free-wheeling journey of three South African photographers (Sean Metelerkamp, Sipho Mpongo and Wikus De Wet) across the country as they explore the current state of South Africa with GoPro cameras strapped to their chests, feeling its pulse and asking the question: “Has Mandela’s vision of equality in a rainbow nation been achieved?” The film answers this question with a kaleidoscopic set of responses that is disturbing, beautiful, thought-provoking and, more than anything, movingly surreal. The film shows the underlying demons of our troubled national soul but also its deep and profound beauty. Made with technology that is widely accessible, the film is also a vibrant call to arms for new modes of filmmaking and fresh approaches to narrative. 

Directed by John Barker, Wonder Boy for President tells a story of Wonder Boy, a charismatic and authoritative young man from the Eastern Cape (played by master comedian Kagiso Lediga), who is coerced into running for president by two dubious and corrupt characters played by Ntosh Madlingozi and Tony Miyambo. Their aim is to mould him into a great politician and manufacture his down-fall at the right time, for the right price. It is a political satire that delves into political dynamics and the challenges that arise.

Programme – both films will be screened each day

Saturday, 18 June at 10:00am at Clermont Library

Monday, 20 June at 10:00am at Wushwini Arts Centre at Kwangcolosi

Tuesday, 21 June at 10:00am at Ohlange Library, Inanda

Thursday, 23 June at 10:00am Umlazi W Library W

Friday, 24 June at 10:00am at Creative Arts College on Dr Pixley Kasema Street (West Street)

Saturday, 25 June at 10:00am at KwaMashu Ekhaya Multi Arts Centre (KCAP)

For general enquiries call 031 260 2506, logon to www.durbanfilmfest.co.za, follow on Twitter @Diffest  and like the Facebook page Durbaninternationalfilmfestival.

The Durban International Film Festival takes place from 16-26 June 2016. The Festival includes nearly 200 theatrical screenings, as well as the Wavescape Film Festival and various industry initiatives, including the 9th Talents Durban programme (in cooperation with the Berlin Talent Campus) and the 7th Durban FilmMart co-production market (in partnership with the Durban Film Office).

The 37th Durban International Film Festival is organised by the Centre for Creative Arts at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, with support from the National Film and Video Foundation, Durban Film Office, eThekwini Municipality, German Embassy, Goethe Institut, KwaZulu-Natal Department of Arts and Culture and a range of other valued partners.

ends

Sarafina! Commemorates 40 years of 16 June 1976

Media Release

SARAFINA! COMMEMORATES 40 YEARS OF 16 JUNE 1976

Producer of Sarafina!, Anant Singh announced today the commemoration of the 40th Anniversary of the ‘Soweto Uprising’ of 16 June 1976, with initiatives focussing on the film which is based on this watershed event in South Africa’s history. Directed by Darrell James Roodt, Sarafina! stars Leleti Khumalo, Mbongeni Ngema, John Kani, Robert Whitehead, Miriam Makeba and Oscar winner, Whoopi Goldberg.

The film follows Sarafina (Leleti Khumalo), who, like other young students of the time, adopted a campaign of resistance against the police presence in their schools.  She imagines the support of her role-model, Nelson Mandela, who is her inspiration, and she finds an ally in her teacher, Mary Masombuka (Whoopi Goldberg) who backs the students in their rebellion against the police presence.

Leading the initiatives is a unique collaboration between Videovision Entertainment, United International Pictures, Ster Kinekor, Nu Metro, Times Media and e.tv to have free screenings of Sarafina! at selected cinemas across South Africa at 12 noon on 16 June 2016.  The participating cinemas are: Baywest, Bedford Centre, Blue Route, Bridge, Brooklyn, Canal Walk, Carlton Centre, Clearwater, East Rand Mall, Eastgate, Eikestad, Galleria, Gateway, The Glen, Key West, Kollanade, Loch Logan Development, Maponya Mall, Menlyn Park, Mimosa, Mooi River, Newtown Junction, Northcape (Kimberley), Parow, The Pavilion, Sandton, Southgate, Sterland, TygerValley, Vaal Mall, Nu Metro V&A and Walmer Park.

In addition to the screenings at cinemas, e.tv will broadcast Sarafina! at 20h30 on 16 June 2016 on its free-to-air service which will have a simultaneous transmission on Channel 194 on the DStv platform.

In KwaZulu Natal, Videovision Entertainment has teamed up with the KZN Film Commission for community screenings from 20 to 26 June in Umlazi, Clermont, Chesterville, KwaMashu and The Bat Centre.  Gauteng will see a partnership with The Joburg Theatre where Sarafina! will be screened as part of the theatre’s Youth Month programme at the Soweto Theatre from 10 to 19 June and at the Joburg Theatre between 20 and 25 June; while in the Western Cape, the film will be screened for school children from the Athlone and Mitchells Plain areas on 22 June.

Commenting on the initiatives, Singh said, “Sarafina! has been an inspiration to me, firstly in getting the film made, and then being inspired by how it was embraced by the people of South Africa and the rest of the world.  The stage musical created by Mbongeni Ngema which also starred Leleti Khumalo was revolutionary and fresh.  Our film continued in that tradition, to celebrate and pay tribute to the youth of 1976 who paid the ultimate price for our freedom.  In commemorating the 40th anniversary of 16 June 1976, we are proud to have created a platform that allows Sarafina! to salute those young people who contributed to our freedom and share their story with the youth of today, contributing to social cohesion and an appreciation of their peers.  I also congratulate, on the occasion of this 40thanniversary, the members of the stage musical and the team that made the film for their contribution to recording this historic event for posterity.”

End

For further information:

Nilesh Singh

Tel: 031 204 6050 

E-mail: nilesh@videovison.co.za