Diamond Jubilee Gala Concert in aid of SA guide Dogs for the Blind

The blind 8-year old opera star, Rochelle Veenemans, will open the Diamond Jubilee Gala Concert in aid of SA Guide Dogs for the Blind next Wednesday night with the aria O mio babbino caro, one of Puccini’s best known compositions from the opera Gianni Schicchi.

Rochelle is the granddaughter of South African opera diva Barbara Veenemans. She is currently a Grade 2 learner at the Prinshof School for the Visually Impaired. Rochelle was a premature baby and weighed only 970 grams at her birth. It was later determined that she became blind whilst she was placed in ICU for the duration of three months. Rochelle was exposed at an early age to music and soon it was discovered that she has a special music talent. She made her solo debut at the age of four with the famous tenor Manual Escorcio, singing songs such as You raise me up and Tomorrow from the musical Annie. She is a regular performer at charity events, children’s music theatre productions and she also performs regularly with her aunt, opera singer Michelle Veenemans. She frequently competes at various Eisteddfods to great acclaim and in 2012 received an additional special award from the National Eisteddfod Academy for her brilliant rendition of Bach’s aria, Bist du bei mir for Grade 1 learners. As a result, she was invited to perform at the Young Performers Showcase at the Atterbury Theatre in Pretoria. In 2013, she gave her first radio interview for RSG Kuns and they also aired one of the recordings.

The concert is being given at the Joburg Theatre and ticket prices range from R150, R250, R350, R450 and R550 – with 20 seats at a R1000 each in the Mayoral Box. Bookings can be made through www.joburgtheatre.com or by phoning the Call Centre on 0861 670 670.

Snitch a night at TWITCH!

So, a paleoanthropologist, a mining engineer, a marketing executive and a housewife walk into a birding hide... when good birding goes bad.

And so,Twitch, the world premiere of a new South African comedy by Robert Fridjhon, about two harassed couples in a bird hide over a birding weekend comes to Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre from 12 June!

Starring Michael Richard, Louise Saint-Claire, Bronwyn Gottwald and Russel Savadier, the play will be directed by Steven Stead and Charmaine Weir-Smith and designed by Greg King, with lighting design by Tina le Roux.

Four twitchers in a bird-hide, somewhere in the Kruger National Park, are taking part in a major birding competition. The first prize is a trip to Mala-Mala, the second prize a new pair of binoculars. Furthermore, the team is fighting for their club's reputation as well as the prestigious Owl Award. The pleasantries and social formalities slowly begin to unravel with outrageous consequences when uncomfortable truths are revealed about the birding club, its members and, more specifically, the characters in the birding hide.

Refinement and courtesy degenerate into irrelevant and often childlike bickering as the foursome argue evolution versus creation, man versus nature and the merits of a low-carb diet!

Twitch writer, multi award-winning Robert Fridjhon has been on the stage for over 20 years; from Shakespeare to musical theatre, comedy to drama. Recently he starred in Travels with my Aunt, Boeing Boeing, A Perfect Wedding, Funny Business, The Mousetrap (which toured to Hong Kong at the end of 2012).

Fridjhon worked full-time for FreeMe Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre in 2006. The majority of the cases he worked on involved birds. As a passionate conservationist, he is pledging a percentage of his royalty fee to FreeMe. He was recently involved in a lion rescue and rehabilitation programme at the Krugersdorp Rhino & Lion Park, where he raised three of his own lions.

TWITCH

Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre

12 June – 14 July

Booking through Computicket & Theatre Box Office (011) 511 1818

Performances: Wed – Fri @ 8pm, Sat @ 5pm & 8pm, Sun @ 3pm

Tickets: R160, R120, R100

Please find attached cast pics by Suzy Bernstein

Follow us on Twitter @Monte_Theatre

“Like” us on Facebook

Please forward all Media requests to mark@montetheatre.co.za

Great University Dance Production

The University of Johannesburg's new dance drama production of Desdemona is based on Shakespeare's Othello but, told from the heroine's viewpoint. It is an absolutely breathtaking and, also inspiring to know that young people are prepared to work that hard and perform their hearts out for an audience. And, even more so, if one takes into account that choreographer/ director Owen Lonzar had four weeks within which to create a work of such outstanding impact!

 

The story is set in a modern-day university environment and Lonzar works here with UJ students who have no dance experience (the university does not offer dance, drama or music) and who are joined by some students from the National School of the Arts and also two professional male dancers. The achievement thus deserves much more than even the standing ovation it got last night - I regrettably missed opening night last Friday.

Despite the obvious limitations of budget and skills Lonzar faces in this university production, he doesn't compromise and challenges the dancers to the very limits of their capabilities. The set is an inverted rehash of ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ which he directed for UJ last year – and it works extremely well! The overall result is a contemporary work of great drama which incorporates many variations of contemporary dance but never denies balletic influences. Lonzar uses jazz, hip hop, street, swing and a plethora of modern forms to create different moods and convey different messages. For instance, in the tango he brilliantly shows Othello's intensity and Desdemona's devotion while subtly portraying the jealousy, subdued anger and betrayal which lies just below the surface. The choreography from this section is brilliantly mirrored in the final moments of the plo’s unfolding.

And, while the story originally was created for the word, throughout this dance production, Lonzar very successfully manages to illustrate the central theme of Shakespeare's drama; That love, while filled with passion and eternal hope, can carry very different interpretations and meanings for the different characters in the plot.

Lonzar also weaves a subtext into the production - in this instance particularly the abuse of women. This makes the work very relevant to the South African context and the messages it conveys are pertinent and educational. From the very beginning he juxtaposes the differences between the sexes, with the girls who are cooperative and supportive in their groups and the boys who are competitive and with a need to display their strength and dominance. This is really innovative choreography and I will go as far as to say that not since Esther Nasser premiered PULA last year (arguably with South Africa's most outstanding professional contemporary company) have we seen such relevant choreography.

It would be a real pity if Lonzar isn't given the opportunity of presenting this dance drama with a professional company sometime in the future. If with students he managed to create this kind of magic, I am confident that with the strengths a professional dance company offers, he could recreate a work that will hold its own with the best that dance has to offer.

I have been wholly unimpressed with most of the dance presentations Johannesburg got bombarded with last year. With the exception of a few, there was really was little quality going around. The University of Johannesburg can justifiably be proud of this dance presentation as it showcases all the values the institution stands for and also puts in place new demands for raising the standards in many a professional company in this city.

As mentioned earlier in this review, last year Lonzar also directed ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ using mostly UJ amateur students and the minimum of professionals. At the time I remarked that his production of ‘Little Shop’ was the best musical production we had on a Johannesburg stage during 2012. What a pity that the Naledi Awards ignored the show.

Royal comedy flush

Multi-coloured Tupperware, inappropriate cousins, anecdotes straight out of the Cape Flats and quite possibly a prank or two is what Kings and Queens of Comedy promises to showcase on Sunday, April 28 at Emperors Palace, Centre Court.

Marc Lottering

Brought to you by Blu Blood, the Kings and Queens of Comedy is South Africa’s leading comedy brand and is set to dominate Johannesburg with its side-splitting comedy line-up funny enough to evoke a giggle even from the most serious South Africans.

Barry Hilton

The show introduces the first international “Queen” to be hosted, Ava Vidal, widely regarded to be the UK’s funniest woman. As one of Britain’s top comediennes, she brings international flair to this world-class act. Vidal will have to contend with the likes of Cape Town’s hearty Tupperware Aunty, Mel Jones and Angel Campey, a figure who reckons she is way too pretty to be a comedian. These leading ladies have practised their Queen’ wave and are ready to show their male counterparts which sex can tickle funny bones the most.



As typical kings with considerable power and influence – albeit in the comedy fraternity – the likes of South Africa’s most famous cousin Barry Hilton, the Cape Flats’ Marc Lottering, the infamous Trevor Gumbi, the rebel Robbie Collins, the politically incorrect but entirely Halaal funny boy Simmi Afrif, and the biggest prankster of them all: 94.7 Highveld’s Darren “Whackhead” Simpson have all passed laws declaring themselves the funnier sex. And as if that’s not enough of a side-splitting offering, the performance will be loosely held together by the impeccably funny Joey Rasdien, who will fulfil the role of MC.



As seasoned jesters who are accustomed to witnessing audiences tear up as they deliver comedy with wit and relevance, these kings and queens of comedy swear that the ticket price to the show (starting from R160 and available from Computicket) might seem like a joke, but it is probably the most serious fact of the night. In these times of recession, nowhere else will you be able to take in 10 big names on one stage for such a steal, even if you tried!



As the ministry of laughter, this monarch not only promises but will deliver on a diverse mix of culturally relevant, observational and thoroughly funny comedy that will leave audiences willing to vote for them for another term.



Happening during the Freedom Day weekend at Emperors Palace, the Kings and Queens of Comedy is going to demonstrate just how far the nation’s comedians have come in the last 19 years since independence, proving that they have the mettle to go head-to-head with the world’s finest. Not only that, but these local comedians are going to prove once and for all that they have the ability of uniting the nation through the best medicine of them all: laughter.



The Joburg leg of the Kings and Queens of Comedy also doubles up as an opener for a South Afric-wide comedy circuit tour that will see Blu Blood also invade Cape Town and Durban, in a bid to take over the country, one uncontrollable outburst at a time.

Romanzing the big time

Once relatively unknown, the South African vocal quartet Romanz has become a boy-band sensation on local turf. Now they have been invited to join international pop icon Jennifer Rush when she comes to perform in the country from 26th April – 4th May this year.

 Romanz

Rush immediately knew she had a surefire act for her South African tour when she heard Romanz’s powerful rendition of her hit song Power of Love. In fact, the pop star has fallen in love with the incredible talent in South Africa, which is why she has invited both Romanz and the renowned Drakensberg Boys Choir to perform with her. “We are thrilled to be sharing the stage with her as we are huge fans,” say the foursome.

Jennifer Rush

Rush will most likely be taking her relationship with the super-hot boy band even further as she is considering recording with them in the near future.

Romanz consists of four hugely talented young singers who bring both good looks and a diverse musical style to the group. Burgerd (Adriaan) Botha has mastered the contemporary pop sound whereas the youngest member, Christopher Lee Viljoen, is the tenor with a vocal range of three octaves plus an impressive pure falsetto. Adam Barnard is a lyrical baritone who adds a softness and sensitivity to the lyrics while Andre Venter provides bass baritone and has the ability to perform with a wonderful sense of passion and emotional intensity.

After a stunning live performance on local turf in 2008, which had audiences on their feet, they were catapulted to success and since then they have been reaching for the stars. Their albums have reached gold, platinum and double platinum status and they have won almost every prestigious music award on offer since their inception, including SAMA awards the likes of Best Newcomers, Best Video, Best Song, and Best Group.

Romanz brings a fresh, unique sound to their original songs coupled with some well-loved classic standards. With their classically-trained voices they are renowned for producing rich, opulent harmonies, which they deliver against a dramatic soundscape courtesy of master re-mixer Ash Howes (of One Direction fame).

The group has enjoyed some prominent international performances. They were invited to sing alongside Andrea Bocelli at the Wedding of Prince Albert and Charlene Wittstock in Monaco. They have also performed as the supporting act to world-renowned voice artist Katherine Jenkins.

Following on their African Dream album, Romanz has become so popular in their home-country South Africa that they recently sold out a seven thousand seater arena and are preparing to create the same following in Europe. The quartet is about to go big with My Angel their first single release in the UK. They have also been working with Howes recording new tracks in English for their UK album, recently travelling there to showcase their unique take on contemporary pop to the media. They were received with much acclaim.

Now, this powerful quartet will be performing at Jennifer Rush’s highly anticipated whirlwind South African tour, which will take place at the Cape Town International Convention Theatre, 26TH and 27TH April 2013, and in Johannesburg at the Theatre of the Marcellus at Emperors Palace, 3rd and 4th May 2013.

Romanz are preparing to give their South African fans a performance to remember. “This is an incredible opportunity for us. We have performed for world-famous classical music artists but now is our chance to bring everything that we have to the stage of an iconic pop singer,” say the boys.

Watch this space! If South African fans thought Romanz had reached their peak they were wrong. This successful group is rushing headlong for the stars.

Booking for Jennifer Rush in concert is open at Computicket.



Conveniently located alongside O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, South Africa, Emperors Palace Hotels Casino Conventions and Entertainment Resort combines timeless classical elegance and sheer excitement. With luxurious accommodation in four unique hotels, a glorious health and beauty spa, a magnificent casino with unparalleled gaming enjoyment, the finest in dining options, spectacular entertainment choices including a state-of-the-art cinema complex, world-class conference facilities, and impeccable service. Emperors Palace is the ultimate family destination.

Standing Ovations Greet The African Passion!

Audiences in Durban, P.E. and Cape Town have greeted SA's new Gospel Opera, The African Passion, with overwhelming enthusiasm and heartfelt ovations. Now it is Joburg‚s turn to welcome and applaud this celebratory work when it opens at the new Soweto Theatre on Friday 5th April for a limited 5 performance season before moving to the Joburg Theatre where it plays from Thursday 11th Sunday 14th April.

Aubrey Lodewyk as Annas the Pharisee, Blessing Xaba as Caiaphas a Pharisee, & Bonakele Edward Lungu as Pharisee Eleazar

In true operatic tradition the entire narrative is sung-through in what can be described as an exciting eclectic authentic South African Gospel sound.

"The music is a fair reflection of the vast variety of gospel styles that make up the South African genre. There are great choral numbers in an almost classical style, some in a mbaqanga style. There are duets, solos and a group of isicathamiya disciples. This is a true African Passion." says director Themi Venturas who also wrote the libretto.

Faca Kulu as Jesus

The work features the compositional excellence of local composers Phelelani Mnomiya, Anthony Govender and the Young Mbazo.

Phelelani Mnomiya, known in the choral community as "SBP, is a lecturer in choral music studies at the University of Kwa-Zulu-Natal and is recognized as one of South Africa's pre-eminent chorale music composers. Gauteng audiences will remember his impressive Ziyankomo for Opera Africa.

Anthony Govender is a popular Durban based musician who, apart from his compositional work, also runs the Destiny Music Academy, which offers a wide range of services to amateur and professional musicians.

Carrying the family's cultural legacy to the next generation are the Young Mbazo - the children and Grandchildren of the world renowned Ladysmith Black Mambazo. Their hallmark isicathamiya style is heard to great dramatic effect when sung by the 12 apostles in The African Passion.

Themi Venturas has assembled a stellar cast to bring the music and drama of The African Passion to life. From celebrated Gospel singers, to internationally acclaimed opera singers, from doyennes of musical theatre to authentic exponents of ethnic music, Venturas has hand-picked an impressive cast who effortlessly traverse the full spectrum of styles demanded by The African Passion.

Playing the role of Jesus is Bongikhosi „Faca Kulu who spent time in the Broadway production of The Lion King in New York.

In the role of Mary, his mother, is Natalia da Rocha who makes a welcome return to the Joburg stage. Natalia‚s impressive career saw her as a pioneering cabaret artist at Club 58. Her double act with Sam Marais, „Coffee and Cream‰ was one of the most popular cabaret acts of its time. She went on to headline in a Sun City Extravaganza and in numerous large scale critically acclaimed productions across the country before settling in Cape Town in the late 90‚s. Her last appearance at the Joburg Theatre was in Des and Dawn Lindberg‚s Godspell in which she played Mary Magdalene. A significant wheel will come to a dramatic full-circle when she steps onto the stage of The Mandela as Mary the Mother in The African Passion.

Gospel star Sharon Dee fondly remembered for „Local is Lekker‰ and her performances with Joyous Celebration, brings her defining Gospel sound to the role of Mary Magdalene.

Opera trained baritone Aubrey Lodewyk, acclaimed for numerous operatic roles including the older Mandela in the recent Mandela Trilogy, plays Annas.

Popular tenor Dewald Von Solms, of the Black Tie Ensemble and the duo VonWest, takes on the emotionally challenging role of Pontius Pilate.

SPUD fans will be delighted to see Blessing Xaba („Fatty in the popular movie and sequel) revealing yet another side of his considerable talent in the role of Caiaphas.

For the Johannesburg and Soweto seasons, Venturas has secured the acclaimed University of Johannesburg Choir for the choral work.

The production is a visual treat with spectacular audio-visual backgrounds and stunning costumes designed by debutante designer Nompumelelo Mkhize.

For theatre and music lovers The African Passion has the epic choral splendor of a latter day Handel‚s Messiah and the contemporary relevance and bravery of Webber Rice‚s rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar.

The African Passion will touch hearts and lift spirits with its positive message of rebirth and hope! The African Passion celebrates „our African identity and should not be missed. (Latoya Newman- IOL)

This historic production from Catalina UnLtd is brought to the Nation with funding from the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund.

Royal Academy soloists to sing Fauré’s soul-stirring Requiem

Four leading vocal soloists from the Royal Academy of Music in London will be launching the second series of Gala concerts at St George’s Anglican Church in Parktown in March, as part of their South African tour.

Jenny Stafford

The church has embarked on a second series of organ concerts to celebrate last year’s installation of its impressive new Rieger pipe organ.

The four Royal Academy vocalists will be singing Gabriel Fauré’s Requiem, one of the most beautiful and well-known choral pieces of all time, during the first gala concert in the new series at St George’s on Tuesday, 26th March 2013 at 7.30pm.

Sam Pantcheff

The visitors from London, Jenny Stafford (soprano), Sarah Shorter (mezzo-soprano), Nicholas Scott (tenor) and Samuel Pantcheff (baritone), will be performing the solos in this work, joined by the Choir of St George’s Church.

Sarah Shorter

Conducted by Richard Pantcheff, the celebrity visitors will also perform a number of solo and ensemble items accompanied by Peter Black on the organ, and a selection of exquisite works from the Renaissance period. Their programme will also include solo extracts from George Frederic Handel’s Messiah, one of the world’s best-loved and most recognisable oratorios.

All four Royal Academy vocalists have already embarked upon their professional singing careers, and have taken part in many first-class concerts and operas.

They have performed with such distinguished conductors as Sir Colin Davis, Edward Gardiner and Trevor Pinnock, and in some of the most prestigious locations: the Barbican, the Old Vic Theatre, Cadogan Hall, the Grimeborn Festival, the Edinburgh Festival, Buxton Opera and with the Israel Camerata, as well as at many cathedrals and concert halls in the United Kingdom. They have also featured prominently in the recent major musical productions of the Royal Academy itself.

In addition to their gala concert at St George’s, the four vocal scholars will be performing in a number of high-profile events around the country in March and April, including the Wakkerstroom Festival, the Rand Club Chamber Music Series, and at the Linder Auditorium.

Tickets for the Royal Academy gala concert on 26th March at 7.30pm are available directly from St George’s Church in Parktown by phoning 011-482-1606/7 or emailing music@stgeorges.org.za or secretary@stgeorges.org.za

Old Mutual Theatre on the Square: The Timekeepers

The Timekeepers is a story of men in a concentration camp, who bond through lessons in watch repairing and a love for opera. It is a moving and intense piece of theatre that looks beyond the relationships between the main characters, to question isolation and understanding in communities. Billed by the British Theatre Guide as one of top five theatre shows in London, The Timekeepers has been touring to international festivals since 2004. The story that is told with quiet humanity and humour to illustrate an argument that the victims of the Nazi persecution during the holocaust were not without their own prejudices. The Timekeepers is a call for tolerance and understanding by reminding us that the Jews were not the only ones to suffer in the holocaust.

In his 70 minute snapshot, Dan Clancy engagingly unravels a relationship between a camp gay German and his fellow prisoner, a straight Jew, and the guard in a concentration camp. The affair, both touching and life affirming, is delicately directed by Lee Gilat who elicits heartfelt performances from her cast in an intense piece of theatre that combines wit and poignancy with a remarkable skill.

The Timekeepers sharpens the focus on a human story. Three men are confined by space and time. One rediscovers his humanity. The other subtly reveals the quietness beneath his flamboyant mask. The third whose power and authority are more fragile than they seem, provides support. Friendships of the deepest nature are developed amongst the most unlikely people in the most unlikely places – and in this play, between an outrageously camp and exuberant character and his relationship with his prisoner.

The Timekeepers is genuinely funny and touching. It demonstrates how in a very unusual way, this internationally acclaimed production finds humour in the subject of the holocaust without trivializing it. It has been described as a theatrical masterpiece that is tenderly told through a strong script, three talented actors and a skilled director. The play should leave audiences satisfied with the feeling that the time spent in the theatre was worthwhile - a challenging and provocative theatrical experience to remember.

There will be four performances only

- Tuesday 12th, Wednesday 13th and Thursday 14th at 8.15pm and on Saturday 16th March at 6pm

On Thursday 14th March the show will be presented in Hebrew



Bookings can be made through the theatre on tel. 011-883-8606 or Strictly Tickets tel. 082 553 5901 or online www.strictlytickets.com Enquire about group booking discounts and dinner/show packages.

Tickets are R120.

Peoples Theatre presents:Disney's Sleeping Beauty

Sleeping Beauty is a classic fairy tale that dates back to 1697. It is the story of a beautiful princess, an enchantment that puts an entire village to sleep and a handsome prince who valiantly saves the day. And now, a healthy sprinkling of fairy dust and a lot of good old fashioned laughter will bring the magical world of Sleeping Beauty to life once again when this magnificent show opens at the Peoples Theatre in March. This classic story is sure to become a firm favourite to a new generation who will delight in participating in this enchanting musical.

Alexandra Snyman as Sleeping Beauty (Aurora)

It is Princess Aurora’s sixteenth birthday and her fairy guardians Flora, Fauna and Merryweather, with the aid of the audience, must use their fairy magic to save her from the evil sorceress Maleficent - and bring about the happy-ever-after wedding to the handsome Prince Phillip.

True to form, the Peoples Theatre's cast of talented performers will put their own mark on the various Disney-style characters and will have audiences reminiscing with some classic songs from the beloved film, including Once Upon a Dream. Also included are brand new songs such as Maleficent! and A Little Magic Now, bringing a fresh telling of the story to a new generation of families. A glorious set and extravagant costumes will bring that special Disney magic that we have all come to know and love right onto the stage.

Kieran Hariman as King Stefan, Denira Coleman as Queen Stefanie, Kefilwe Mohlabane as King Hubert, Isabella Snyaman as Fauna, Sky Proctor as Flora & Noni Mkhonto as Merryweather

Kefilwe Mohlabane takes the part of King Hubert. Kefilwe has been acting since the age of 7. He obtained his actor training at Tshwane University of Technology, where he studied Performance Art: Drama, specialising in singing and theatre dance. Kefilwe has appeared in various theatre and film productions such as the Hairy Godfather in Hairy Godfather and Nix Masala. In 2007 he starred in a short film by Peter Sommers - Life in Ruins and as Don in Summer Holiday. In 2008 Kefilwe was honoured with the Ronald Bartie trophy for perseverance for his role as Prince Charming in Cinderella. He performed in Capable Homicide in 2010, Cleansed in 2011, and an adaptation of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, Mabatha in 2012. He also appeared as Grimsby and Flotsam in Disney’s Little Mermaid KIDS in 2012.

Kieran Harriman as King Stefan. Kieran is a versatile professional actor with experience in film, television and theatre performance. His graduation cum laude from A.F.D.A. (African Film and Drama Academy) was swiftly followed by lead roles for the National Childrens Theatre Trust. In between times he has managed to fit in a film role with Barry Hilton, a television production of The Coconuts by M-Net and a further saga as McGregor in Isidingo SABC. He completed a successful run as Prince Charming in Cinderella, various characters in Sleeping Beauty, Sly the Goblin in Noddy and most notably the Mad Hatter in Alice in Wonderland at the Peoples Theatre.

Noni Mkhonto stars as Merryweather. Noni has appeared in many Peoples Theatre productions since her debut in 2007. These include Alice in Wonderland, Little Red Riding Hood, Aladdin, the Genie of the Ring and The Little Mermaid. Most recently, Noni appeared in Janice Honeyman’s pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk.

Other cast members include Cole Quinlan as Prince Phillip, Denira Coleman as Princess Stefanie, Skye Proctor as Flora, Alexandra Snyman as Princess Aurora and Isabella Snyman as Fauna.

Special school performances at R60 per learner and one complementary ticket for a teacher per 20 pupils. Extra teachers @ R60 each. Accompanying parents cost R80 each. To supplement the impact of this production of Sleeping Beauty, a special educational pack of related activities (for both Pre School and Primary School) will be provided, and this can be used in the classroom.

Phone Andrew or Lorraine on (011) 403-1563 / 2340 for bookings or enquiries or email peoplestheatre@artslink.co.za.

Second organ concert series opens with a flourish

Johannesburg residents have spoken – and they agree that organ music rocks! St George’s Anglican Church has had such an overwhelming response to its inaugural series of organ concerts that it will be hosting a second series, starting in March 2013.

John Scott

Over the past 10 months, the Parktown church has presented a number of concerts by visiting international organists to commemorate the installation of its magnificent new custom-built Rieger pipe organ, sponsored by parishioners Nicky and Strilli Oppenheimer.

During that time, St George’s has attracted congregants as well as secular music lovers to stirring performances by celebrated concert organists Gordon Stewart, John Scott, Olivier Latry and, most recently, Nathan Laube.

Now, the church is preparing to play host to even more top-drawer entertainment with three gala concerts planned for March, June and October.

Says St George’s Churchwarden, Peter Campbell: “We have been surprised and delighted by the way Johannesburg music lovers came out in their numbers to experience the rich and resonant sound of the new pipe organ and to luxuriate in its range of genre and tonal possibilities, as performed by some of the leading concert organists in the world today.

“Organ music has been sadly misunderstood by many throughout the years, and through our concert series, we hope we are playing some small part in demystifying this most glorious of instruments.”

First up in the second international concert series, on Tuesday, 26 March 2013 at 7.30pm, is a vocal performance by soloists from the prestigious Royal Academy of Music in London, accompanied by the St George’s Choir and Peter Black on the organ. Richard Pantcheff will conduct a varied programme that includes Fauré’s Requiem, Opus 48 and solos from Handel’s Messiah.

The series continues on Friday, 28th June 2013 at 7.30pm with a delightful organ crossover concert performed by Ockie Vermeulen. On 22nd and 23rd October, audiences will be treated to the extraordinary playing of international award-winning concert organist, Clive Driskill-Smith of Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford, also at 7.30pm.

In addition, St George’s will be presenting free organ recitals directly before Choral Evensong on the first Sunday of each month, at 5.15pm.

Olivier Latry

Tickets for the gala concerts are available directly from St George’s Church in Parktown by phoning 011-482-1606/7 or emailing music@stgeorges.org.za. Tickets for the second and third Gala concerts will also be on sale at Computicket.

3D Pavement Art to Amaze South Africa

At one time or another we have all been amazed by those fascinating 3D paintings seen on sidewalks and then posted on the internet for all to view. Whether it’s the kind of art you like or not, it’s absolutely enthralling.

On local turf we have only ever enjoyed them from afar, but now Kurt Wenner, the inventor of the captivating artworks – called 3D interactive pavement art, is coming to South Africa to entertain us with his talents as part of the Hyundai Veloster launch campaign, starting in March 2013.

In fact, this world master three-dimensional illusionist artist has been using his amazing techniques with campaigns across the globe for some time now, and has been responsible for creating massive hype in real time as well as on the virtual platform.

His art works have assisted in driving millions of potential customers to web sites and encouraging viral tidal waves on the internet – his paintings created the first ever visual art viral storm on the internet.

Hyundai has invited Wenner to participate in the launch of their new car, the Veloster, in the South African market. This campaign will prove how his exciting art works will very quickly carry Hyundai’s message to the public as it not only wows the crowds in shopping centres across the nation, but also gathers massive momentum on a viral level.

ABOUT KURT WENNER

With an international following, Wenner is best known as the founding father of 3D pavement art and has inspired other artists to take up the same technique.

He was commissioned to produce his first art work, a mural, at the age of 16. Soon after he was earning a living as a graphic artist. He attended both Rhode Island School of Design and Art Center College of Design in the United States, before working for NASA, where he was an advanced scientific illustrator, creating conceptual paintings of future space projects and extraterrestrial landscapes.

In 1982 he left NASA, sold all of his belongings and moved to Italy to study figurative drawing and art. Wenner lived a stone's throw from the Pantheon in the heart of Rome, where he studied the drawings, paintings, and sculptures of the old masters in Rome's best known museums.

Over the years his work became known throughout the country and in 1991 he was commissioned to create a piece to honour the visit of Pope John Paul II to the city of Mantua.

In 1986 Wenner first introduced 3D pavement art at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art. Shortly after that he founded the first street painting festival in the United States at the Old Mission in Santa Barbara, California. The Old Mission festival, also known as I Madonnari, continues to this day as do many other festivals and events Wenner started across the country.

One often overlooked fact of Wenner's career is that he dedicated one month every year, for 10 years, to teach more than 100 000 students from elementary through university level how to work with chalks and pastels. For his dedication, he was awarded the Kennedy Center Medallion for his outstanding contribution to arts education.

Wenner enjoys a career in fine art painting, sculpture, decorative stucco relief, ceramic murals, architectural designing and numerous images for publicity and advertising, his latest creation being his book Asphalt Renaissance, which documents the history of pavement art and his role in transforming it from a dying tradition to a dynamic multi-dimensional art form.

Wenner and his art works have appeared in some impressive documentaries, including the 1987 award-winning National Geographic documentary “Masterpieces in Chalk”. He also created a print advertisement for Absolut Vodka as part of the brand’s prestigious artist ad series. The ad is known as Absolut Wenner and the creation of the image was produced as a television commercial.

Then, in 2010 Greenpeace called for a ban of genetically modified crops and presented the European Union members in Brussels with 1 million signatures along with a 22 m by 22 m 3D Wenner image. The giant composition set a world record for the largest image of its kind drawn by a single person.

Wenner lives in the United States. His works have been seen in 30 countries, and he creates works for clients all over the world.

ABOUT HYUNDAI’S VELOSTER:

The innovative spirit of the fast-growing Hyundai Motor Company and its comprehensive range of vehicles will be celebrated soon by the unveiling of the Hyundai Veloster – a novel approach to the compact coupé segment with an unique third door.

The all-new Veloster – with a new 1.6-litre direct-injected four-cylinder petrol engine mated to Hyundai’s first EcoShift™ dual-clutch transmission – brings to a younger customer group a “2 1 door” coupé design with the functionality of a hatch back and a passenger-side forward-hinged rear door for easy rear-seat access.

The Veloster with its perky 1.6-litre GDI Gamma engine will add even more variety to Hyundai’s comprehensive range of new models – including the recently launched all-new i30 and i20 hatchbacks, the Elantra and Accent sedans and their bigger sibling the Sonata, the smaller i10 hatchback, and the ix35 and Santa Fe SUVs.

The Veloster delivers innovation to the compact coupé segment with its 2 1 door configuration for easy rear-seat access and is a perfect example of the company’s brand slogan: New Thinking. New Possibilities.
The 4,22 m sports-coupé Veloster is destined to give young, progressive buyers a sleek and distinctive design in an innovative three-door coupé form that provides practicality as well as driving pleasure. Hyundai expects the Veloster’s unique combination of style, practicality and economy to re-shape its segment and attract new buyers to the brand.

Design inspired by nature

The Veloster represents Hyundai’s unique design language, “fluidic sculpture”. This Hyundai design DNA is recognizable by flowing lines inspired by nature which combine to create an innovative form, underpinned by strong proportions and a sense of movement and balance. Not only does the design of Veloster offer emotional appeal, but its fundamental aerodynamics ensure a smooth exterior profile, which reduces fuel consumption.

The car’s lines are bold and dynamic, with tough-looking shapes and polished graphics. The hexagonal radiator grille and audacious lamp design express progression and modernity, while the 2 1 door configuration maximizes practicality. The sleek profile of Veloster conveys sportiness and a unique styling very different from existing coupés and hatchbacks.

The door configuration for Veloster has been adapted for right-hand-drive markets, ensuring that customers not only benefit from the great practicality of the rear door but also from high levels of occupant safety.

Powertrains

The Veloster sports coupé will be powered by a lively, efficient 1,6-litre four-cylinder GDI petrol engine, generating 103 kW. Buyers will be offered a choice of a six-speed manual gearbox or the company’s first dual-clutch transmission (DCT).

The new DCT builds on the benefits of a manual gearbox, including low fuel consumption and engaging driving characteristics, by adding the advantages of a traditional automatic transmission, such as high comfort levels (particularly during city driving), and super-smooth shift quality. Other benefits of the DCT include a 5 to 6% improvement in fuel efficiency, as well as a 3 to 7% improvement in acceleration.

The GDI engine also benefits from lightweight aluminium construction and an offset crankshaft that reduces frictional energy losses.

Hyundai has continuously highlighted its commitment to lead the way along the road to long-term environmental sustainability for the auto industry, and Veloster furthers the company’s commitment to delivering economical and fun-to-drive models.

Safety

The Veloster uses the latest active and passive safety technologies to ensure maximum occupant safety at all times. These safety features deploy under all conditions and road surfaces. Active safety features, fitted as standard in several countries, include Vehicle Stability Management (which provides shorter braking distances and secure handling on uneven road surfaces), Electronic Stability Control, ABS/TCS (Traction Control System) and a Brake Assist System.

The Veloster has six airbags – a driver and passenger airbag, curtain airbags and side airbags –and a strengthened, rigid safety cell for its occupants to ensure their safety in the event of an accident.

Hyundai’s Veloster continued the company’s excellent safety record by obtaining the maximum 5-star result under the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP).

Wenner will be creating his incredible bespoke artworks to highlight the new Hyundai Veloster on the following dates:

The Zone, Rosebank, Johannesburg – 26th March 2013

The Barrow Court, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town – 2nd April 2013

The Gateway Shopping Centre, Durban – 5th April 2013

For more information about Wenner’s art and the Hyundai Veloster campaign visit www.hyundai.co.za or www.kurtwenner.com

NSA Festival Finale Day set to be a winner!

There is only one place to be on Saturday 2nd March and that is at the National School of the Arts’ Festival Finale Day!

This daylong event offers a spectacular line-up of art, music, drama and dance for the whole family! The historic NSA building with its breathtaking panoramic view and the impressive Joburg Theatre are the venues for the inaugural NSA Festival Finale Day. With more than a geographic link to Joburg’s Cultural Arc, the NSA is a place where our young artists and thought leaders are guided and trained to become the very best that they can be empowering them to boldly charter the creative landscape of tomorrow.

The Festival Finale Day is an opportunity for all arts lovers to spend an enjoyable and inspiring day in this powerful creative space. The NSA field will be a vibrant buzz of craft, cultural food, music, jazz, Street Theatre and a visual arts extravaganza. Every performance space will be a proud showcase of the finest student and professional dance, drama and music performances. Every gallery will be an explosion of visual delight! The aim is to offer the finest choice of quality productions to cater for all ages and all tastes.

Gates open at 10am and R80 affords you a day ticket that allows you entry to all venues. For an affordable R80 you can see as much as you can, making a visit to the Finale Day excellent value for money!

Some of the highlights of the Festival Finale include in the ASSITEJ Family Venue, Pôkô Productions’ The Greatest African Love Story, a shadow puppetry experience based on the lives of two of our country's greatest leaders, Walter and Albertina Sisulu. This exquisite show has been described as 'Inspirational and moving. A story of dreams, hope, loss, and above all, of love.' Also on the menu for young children, is a production of Tales from the Flipside by Lunatic Fridge as well as Around the World drama workshops for 5-9 year olds presented by Buzz Drama.

Other exciting productions to look out for at the Festival Finale Day are Owl by Briony Horowitz, the hilarious and brilliant Craig Morris in Hero, Causing a Scene, Jozi's finest improv troupe making it up on the spot and the NSA's own The Secret Garden directed by Weslee Lauder and E=MC2 choreographed by Ndu Msimang and Roger Lambert.

The Finale Day is also a chance to see the exceptional work produced by NSA learners as they cut their teeth on producing original work. Watch out for Tylah Woodman's award winning work Sing me to Sleep as well as a site-specific art installation in the school pool by the Art Department.

The NSA is thrilled that SABC’s leading daily youth magazine programme Yo TV will take to the stage at lunch-time for an impressive live show-case performance. All aspirant TV presenters don’t miss the chance to audition for the Yo TV Presenter’s Search, which is also part of the exciting Festival Finale Day.

The outdoor offerings are equally delicious with Food Stalls and Craft Beer supplied by Tastes of Maboneng, courtesy of the Maboneng Precinct and entertainment provided by clown duo from France/SA Theatre Thump, gorgeous folk singer Shotgun Tori and a Heritage Fashion show, designed, produced and curated by talented NSA learners.
The day programme ends with the celebrated Johannesburg Youth Orchestra Jazz Ensemble in a sundowner concert at 5pm on the NSA Field.

Interest in the Festival Finale Day is spreading fast. The event promises to become a popular annual highlight of Johannesburg’s Cultural calendar. The NSA is proud to offer to the people of Johannesburg a family focused Youth Arts Festival with something for everyone.

The week of Festival of Fame – Expressions of Heritage comes to an end with the NSA learners in the spotlight as the Music and Dance Department join forces for the Double Bill African Reflections Meets Dance Spectrum on Sat 2nd March at 6:30. This gala finale will ring the curtain down on Festival of Fame 2013 on the stage of the Mandela Theatre.

Tickets for the Festival Finale Day available at www.joburgtheatre.com

For the full programme visit: www.festivaloffame.co.za

Yossi Reshef - Piano Recital at Wits

International concert pianist Yossi Reshef (Israel) presents piano master pieces from the Classical and Romantic repertoire as well as Ben - Yohanan’s “Impressions” for which he was awarded the Zilbermann award for the best interpretation of Israeli Piano Music.

The pieces in the programme represent the narrative in sound, as it is depicted in the Classical and Romantic repertoire: the inspiration of William Shakespeare’s work on Beethoven, the inspiration of the Ballade Repertoire on Chopin, the writings of Jean Paul Richter on Schumann, and the paintings of Goya on Granados.

This performance forms part of Yossi Reshef’s debut tour of South Africa in a series of concerts and master classes. A native of Israel, Reshef has performed in many countries around the world where he has received critical acclaim for his artistry. His performances have taken him to Germany, Britain, Denmark, Israel, Italy, Poland, Croatia, Spain, Bulgaria, Russia, Azerbaijan and a number of venues in the United States including Los Angeles, Boston, San Diego, Santa Fe, and New York.



Reshef holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Southern California, where he was assistant to Prof. Norman Krieger. This degree was honoured with the USC Outstanding Academic Achievements Award. He previously studied in Israel under Prof. Pnina Salzman at the Tel Aviv University, Rubin Academy of Music.

Reshef was one of only 4 conductors at the prestigious USC Master’s Conductors’ programme, where he regularly conducted the USC Orchestras. He later on pursued conducting as part of his Doctorate programme. Yossi Reshef currently lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Please visit www.yossireshef.com

• "A brilliant pianist, Reshef played with boldness,

clarity, and great sensitivity" - The Continuo, USA

• "A deftness of touch" - Bristol Evening Post, England



WitsMusic and Wits Theatre gratefully acknowledge the generous financial contribution of both the Israeli Embassy and Tararam (the Israeli culture fund)

Free parking is available off Yale Road, East Campus, Braamfontein

PRODUCTION: YOSSI RESHEF – Piano Recital

VENUE: Wits East Campus, Braamfontein

SEASON: Tuesday 12:03:2013 @ 19:30

RUNNING TIME: 120 minutes incl interval

BOOKING: www.strictlytickets.com Full price = R 80:00; discount price = R 55:00 (students, pensioners and Wits staff). Tickets are available at the door: full price = R 85:00; discount price = R 60:00 (students, pensioners and Wits staff).

ENQUIRIES: 073 1212 112/ 011 717 1376 / Catherine.pisanti@wits.ac.za

Rain Forests and the Circle of Life

The exhibition, Rainforests and the Circle of Life, hosted by the High Commissioner, His Excellency Mr Virendra Gupta, is a travelling trilogy of paintings, installations, films and performance by the eminent Indian artist Mr Manav Gupta.

The exhibition opens coming Thursday, 21 February, at the National Museum of Cultural History in Pretoria and will close 10 March 2013.

Manav Gupta, who trained in Kolkata at the Academy of Fine Arts under Rathin Maitra and under his guru Vasant Pandit, currently works in New Delhi.

He has pioneered collaborative art as performances and mega murals. He has won international acclaim for his first-of-a-kind six storey high 5000 sq ft in facade and 10000 sq ft of total painted surface; the commissioned mega mural at the headquarters of leading telecom corporate giant in Gurgaon and The Tree of Life, the tallest and largest three-dimensional indoor staircase mural by an artist - it covers approximately 5,000 sq ft of visible frontage through a glass façade and 10,000 sq ft of total painted surface.

He has pioneered co-creations with his "Jugalbandis" (Collaborations) with leading musicians, poets and dancers, including Dr L.Subramanium, Shubha Mudgal, Anup Jalota and Rahul Sharma where he translates a performing artist's oeuvre LIVE on stage onto canvas.

Working on a 360 degree platform of canvases, video installations and performances he has collaborated with dance troupes and audiences in public art projects besides his performances and exhibitions at different venues.

Gupta’s works have been sold by Christie’s Christie's, Bonhams, Philip de Pury and are in leading permanent public collections around the world including the Parliament of India, the Rashtrapati Bhawan, the Royal family of Oman, Indian embassies abroad, Chitrakala Parishad and Birla Academy museums.

He has co authored a book of poems and paintings with former President of India Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, published by Penguin India.(2002–2005). He also delivered guest lectures on art, environment and collaborative public art practices at the San Jose State University and the ICD, Berlin in 2010. He also creates single edition functional sculptures and public installations with varied media including iron, steel, wood, discarded roots of trees, glass, recycled scrap metal and clay for interior and exterior corporate and private spaces.

All-Star Cast and Mistaken Identity at Montecasino

Fabulous farce Without a Hitch is directed by none other than the master of farce, Tobie Cronje, and will be titillating audiences at the Studio Theatre at Montecasino from 13 March to 14 April.

Without a Hitch will showcase exciting, up and coming playwright Jessica D. Richards who will make her debut as writer and comedic actress in this performance piece. At the same time the master of farce himself, Tobie Cronje, will bring over four decades of experience to direct the play.

Dealing with the tedium that comes from suburban life in the fifties, two housewives get up to more than just innocent high jinks in the comedy of errors Without a Hitch which will have audiences giggling with glee and gasping with surprise.

Meet friends and neighbours Julia and Caryn, who are typical 1950s mothers and wives. While Julia is the quintessential housewife, Caryn is the complete opposite yet both have something in common, they are bored. Then one evening after slightly too many drinks they make a scandalous decision to swap husbands for a night without their husbands’ consent. All goes fabulously well until it goes farcically wrong which leads to somewhat hilarious consequences.

While Without a Hitch may be Richards’ debut as a playwright on stage, her love for comedy and her theatrical experience has given her the ability to produce a play which is all at once engaging, funny and poignant.

Jessica has had a hand in directing the likes of educational theatre programme Hooked On Books to performing in Wizard of Oz and The Pied Piper at the National Children’s Theatre, to name some. She was most recently seen in Myth of Andrew and Jo at the Con Cowan Theatre in the Reading Gay Festival in the UK, in 2011. Her up and coming career as a playwright may be at the beginning of its trajectory to stardom but she has already paid her dues in the industry as a stage manager, director, voice-over artist, script writer and tap dancer. Without a Hitch will propel her to the next level.

With Mr. Cronje in the director’s chair, audiences can expect a perfectly timed piece of comedy. He is one of South Africa’s most beloved stars with a career spanning 41 years. His performances have been diverse and range from classical roles to comedy, farce and drama. He became a household name in 1976 with the highly successful television series Willem. Since then his award-winning career has encompassed stage, film and television. For many years he worked for Pieter Toerien, and counts the long-running musical Nunsense, which he directed for Toerien, as one of the highlights of his career. Tobie also plays piano and scored a major success with Two Pianos, Four Hands. Nowadays, he directs and produces and can still be seen playing the villians and grand dames in Janice Honeyman’s popular pantomimes.

The sterling Without a Hitch cast will inject life and humour into the characters. While Jessica will be playing the part of Julia, Dianne Simpson takes on the role as her friend Caryn. Dianne has appeared in a number of well-known musicals the likes of The Sound of Music, My Fair Lady, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum and a Spoof Full of Sugar, as well as performed in other theatre genres including comedy. She has also made quite a name for herself on the small screen in shows such as Generations, Rhythm City, Egoli, Noah’s Ark and The Wild. She has done numerous voice-overs for TV and radio. Two of her biggest career highlights was when she provided her voice to the movie Racing Stripes (for Warner Brothers) and was the voice of Lillian in the SA 3D Animated Movie Jock. Her one-woman show Rose Red has toured throughout various Joburg venues since 2010, as well as having runs at the Grahamstown Festival, the Kalk Bay Theatre in Cape Town and the Sandton Theatre on the Square. Most recently she completed writing her first feature film which is in its first stages of production. She will also soon be seen in the SABC 3 Sitcom Heaven Can Wait, airing in March 2013.

The male counterparts are played by talented actors Damon Berry and Gordon van der Spuy. Berry, who plays Dave, is well-known for his versatility as an actor, writer and director and has a career worth bragging about. His acting credits include the feature films Black Butterflies, Starship Troopers Maurauder and Zenon, while his television work is just as impressive with shows the likes of Fallen, History of America and the BBC mini-series To the Ends of the Earth, to name some highlights. He also performed a lead role in the short comedy film SA/X, which won the Toronto Best Student Film award in 2005. His stage work includes Nothing Funny, The Glass Menagerie, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, Amadeus and A Midsummer Night’s Dream. He has contributed to the voice-over scene for radio, TV and corporate presentations. However, the voice he is most fond of is his lovable muppet character Neno in the award-winning educational television series Takalani Sesame, which he performs in nine languages.

Van der Spuy, who plays Mark, also brings diversity to the industry as an actor, director and voice artist. He has appeared in numerous television shows and theatre productions. He has acted in numerous television series such as Soul Buddy’z 2, Backstage, Generations, Zero Tolerance, Mtunzini.com, Binnelanders and Huis van Liefde. Currently, a large part of his career encompasses corporate and industrial theatre, where he participates in the roles of both actor and director. He also works as a director for a production facility called Mindset, the company’s main aim being to take educational programming to townships via clinics where patients can view educational videos whilst waiting to be attended to by medical staff. Van der Spuy enjoys the industrial and corporate environments because he thrives on performing for audiences who rarely, if ever, get to see any theatre.

With Tobie’s guidance, this talented all-star cast brings the fabulous and funny Without a Hitch to rambunctious life, ultimately offering hilarity on a platter.

Tickets cost R150 with special discounts for club members and pensioners. Book at Computicket or at Montecasino Theatre box office. Performance times are: Wednesday to Saturday 20h15 with a 17h15 show every Saturday and a 15h15 show every Sunday.

Oh Golly, it’s Bolly! at the Globe

The award winning South African choreographer Jayesperi Moopen and the Tribhangi Dance Theatre company, is to present her new production of Oh Golly, it’s Bolly! at Gold Reef City’s Globe Theatre from 7 to 31 March 2013. The production is funded by the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund (NLDTF).

Producer / choreographer Moopen has gathered together a superb production team that has, as creative director, the experienced theatre director Ivor Jones; company dancer, Priya Naidoo assisting as choreographer; the highly acclaimed and sought after Set Designer and Technical Director, Johan Engelbrecht while experienced dancer, teacher, events coordinator and programme manager, Subashni Naicker serves as the project manager of Oh Golly, it’s Bolly!

They will take audiences on a musical journey down memory lane with carefully compiled movie songs in a production that will feature live music by renowned singers Roselyn Mangar and Suraj Jewan and songs, full of banter and beats in Hindi, Tamil and Telegu to enthrall and entice audiences. Dancer Nicol Sheraton, one of a number of professional dancers drawn from all over South Africa, and actor Shika Budhoo, make up the rest of the cast.

Oh Golly, it’s Bolly! is a celebration of the magic of Indian cinema spanning a period from the 1970s to present. Homage is paid to the Bollywood greats through storytelling, song and dance that is central to all Indian Cinema. This is a show that will appeal to audiences of all ages.

Moopen, the Tribhangi Dance Theatre founder and executive director, who is widely regarded as one of South Africa’s top choreographers, says, “song, music and dance are vital tools of an inter-cultural dialogue that bring bringing about an awareness and understanding of different cultures. Oh Golly, it’s Bolly! explores this further with the magic of Indian cinema and the Bollywood greats”. She has earned a reputation of pushing boundaries and challenging notions of Indian dance. Her pioneering efforts of juxtaposing and synthesising Indian dance with African dance and music has won her many accolades in South Africa.

The Tribhangi Dance Theatre, a professional, multi-cultural dance company, was established by Moopen in 1989. Its uniqueness lies in its boldness to constantly take risks when creating meaningful and significant dance work in an ever-changing environment. The company’s repertoire includes African, Indian, Contemporary and Afro-fusion as a reflection of the sensitivity, respect, understanding and knowledge of the cultures it engages with through dance. Tribhangi has toured extensively locally and internationally, performing in Mauritius, Lesotho, Botswana, Egypt, Germany, India, Sri Lanka, United Kingdom, Malaysia and Canada and many parts of South Africa.

Oh Golly, it’s Bolly! takes place at The Globe Theatre, Gold Reef City from March 8 to March 31 with performances on Thursday and Friday at 20:00; Saturday at 17:00 and 20:00 and Sunday at15:00.

Tickets are priced between R80 to R120 with discount prices for group bookings and pensioners. Tickets are available through Computicket or at The Globe Theatre Box Office on 011 248 5000.

Bonnie Tyler to rock Emperors Palace this August

Bonnie Tyler fans can expect a Total Eclipse of the Heart when the electrifying Welsh songbird performs at Emperors Palace in August 2013.

AfroAsia Events has announced that Tyler, the husky-voiced pop-rock diva behind hits such as Lost in France, It’s a Heartache and Holding out for a Hero, will perform at the Centre Court at Emperors Palace on Thursday 29 and Friday 30 August 2013.

The concert marks the long-awaited return to South African stages of Tyler, who last performed in the country 20 years ago. Having released a succession of irresistible classic songs in the 1970s and 1980s, she continues to occupy a special place in the hearts of many South Africans.

Bonnie Tyler was born Gaynor Hopkins in South Wales, and grew up surrounded by a large family. She was exposed to Motown music at an early age, and was particularly struck by the raw vocal power of two singers who would later have a huge influence on her singing style, Janis Joplin and Tina Turner.

She entered a talent contest at the age of 17 (coming second to a professional singer and winning the princely sum of £1) and went on to join the group Bobby Wayne and the Dixies for two years before forming her own band, Imagination, becoming a regular performer on the Welsh pub and club circuit.

“I decided I would change my name for the stage,” she says. “I put together a list of surnames and Christian names from a newspaper. I thought Bonnie Tyler sounded better than Hopkins. Now I like Gaynor and wish that I hadn’t changed my name.”

Tyler’s hard work eventually paid off and she secured a record deal, but it was only after she had surgery to remove throat nodules in 1976 that her voice developed its trademark huskiness, earning her the moniker “the female Rod Stewart”. Her breakthrough hit in the UK and Europe, Lost in France, was followed by the mega-success of It’s a Heartache, which climbed into the top five in the USA as well.

Her subsequent string of releases failed to fare as well, however. It was only in the early 1980s, when Tyler seized back control of her career, that she made a fateful choice that would propel her to superstardom: partnering with Bat Out of Hell producer and songwriter Jim Steinman.

Steinman instantly recognised the value of Tyler’s raw, passionate, powerful vocal style, and harnessed it to perfection on the album Faster Than the Speed of Light.

It would prove to be creative alchemy: within four weeks of the release of Total Eclipse of the Heart, the epic single had knocked Michael Jackson’s Billie Jean off the top of the UK charts.

It went on to sell over five million records and earned Tyler two Grammy nominations. The album shot straight into the UK album charts at number one, making Tyler the first female artist ever to achieve this feat, and went on to achieve platinum status in several countries, including South Africa.

Subsequent albums yielded standout songs such as the duets with Shakin’ Stevens (A Rockin’ Good Way) and Todd Rundgren (Loving You’s a Dirty Job, But Somebody’s Got to Do It). She has continued to enjoy success, particularly in Europe, where she has embarked on successful collaborations and duets, exploring other genres such as soft-pop and folk and making regular television appearances on charity drives and reality shows.

Tyler has been working on a new album, titled Rocks and Honey, which reportedly has a country-rock flavour and is due to be released this year.

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience one of the most powerful voices in pop-rock music live at Emperors Palace in Gauteng on the 29th and 30th August.

Tickets start from R450 per person and can be booked through the Emperors Palace Box Office on (011) 928 1297/1213 or Computicket on www.computicket.com or 083 915 8000. Winners Circle member discounts apply, plus there are dinner, show, stay and play packages available. Visit www.emperorspalace.co.za for more details.

FULLY COMMITTED

One restaurant, one actor, 36 characters, and over 200 character changes. This is what you will get in the hilarious international comedy
FULLY COMMITTED on from 19th February to 9th March.

Megan Furniss and Pieter Bosch Botha have cleverly localized the story in a way that never seems forced and adds new layers of comedy.


This devastatingly funny one act follows a day in the life of Sam Cooper, an out-of-work actor who mans the red-hot reservation line at Cape Town's number one restaurant.

Desperate callers will stop at nothing, coercion, threats, bribes, and histrionics, in their zeal to land a prime reservation. Meanwhile absentee managers, an oversexed maître d’ and the celebrity chef from hell threaten to drive Sam over the edge.

"I was gobsmacked at how Pieter Bosch Botha keeps track of them all, making them unique and distinct characters." - Moira de Swardt, Artslink.co.za

Bring your friends, school, family, colleagues or clients. There are special group bookings discounts and on

Fundraisers and dinner show packages can also be arranged.

Performances are at 8.15 for Tuesday to Friday

2 shows on Saturdays at 6pm and 8.30.

TUESDAY'S TICKETS ARE HALF PRICE

Bookings can be made by calling the theatre on tel. 011-883-8606

or Strictly Tickets on 082 553 5901

or book on-line – www.strictlytickets.com or www.theatreonthesquare.co.za

Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra re-groups

ANGLO AMERICAN Symphony Season 2013


Wednesday 27 & Thursday 28 February

Robert Maxym conductor

MOZART Cosi fan tutte Overture, K.588

BEETHOVEN Piano Concerto No.3, op.37, C minor

BEETHOVEN Symphony No.6, op.68, F major (Pastorale)

François du Toit piano

***********

Wednesday 06 & Thursday 07 March

Robert Maxym conductor

MENDELSSOHN The Hebrides, op.26 (Fingal’s Cave)

BRUCH Violin Concerto No.1, op.26, G minor BEETHOVEN Symphony No.4, op.60, B-flat major

Serge Cuca violin

***********

Wednesday 13 & Thursday 14 March Robert Maxym conductor

BEETHOVEN Prometheus Overture

BEETHOVEN Symphony No.8, op.93, F major

CHOPIN Piano Concerto No.1, op.11, E minor

Alexander Lubyantsev piano

************
Wednesday 20 & Thursday 21 March

Robert Maxym conductor

RACHMANINOV Vocalise

RACHMANINOV Piano Concerto No.3, op.30, D minor

TCHAIKOVSKY Symphony No.5, op.64, E minor

Alexander Lubyantsev piano

(The JPO reserves the right to alter scheduled programmes or artists as necessary)

All concerts are held at the Linder Auditorium, 27 St Andrews Rd, Parktown

Time: 8p.m. with a free pre-concert at 7.15p.m.

Booking for all concerts through Computicket or Box Office on the night

Season Tickets available from the JPO

Tel: 011 789 2733 - info@jpo.co.za - www. jpo.co.za

Dynamic Dance Line-up for Festival of Fame!

A rich heritage of dance styles will be given grand exposure during the National School of the Arts’ Festival of Fame – Expressions of Heritage from Feb 25th to March 2nd. Sharing the spotlight with the NSA learners are some of South Africa’s most distinguished choreographers and companies including Sylvia Glasser, Moving Into Dance Mophatong and Gregory Maqoma.

The NSA’s flagship production, Dance Spectrum, showcases the NSA learners in a program of Classical Ballet, Contemporary, Spanish and Afro-Fusion. Classical Ballet is in the spotlight in Minkus Variations choreographed by Manuel Norambuena and Sarah Hurter to the stirring music of the great Russian Imperial Ballet composer, Ludwig Minkus. Pictures of Africa, African Revival and Tribal Heartbeat features the choreography of Lauren Jones. Her rich contemporary vocabulary vividly conjures images of nature and the vast beauty of the African landscape. Expressing the essence of ubuntu- “I am because of who we all are”- Pictures of Africa shows in narrative dance that no matter our differences we can all stand united. In a clever confluence of cultures, Gillian Bonegio uses kwela music to open her dynamic Spanish program. This is followed by a Flamenco Tango La Mari Morena, with authentic Spanish vocal and guitar accompaniment by Raul Bonegio. Guest choreographer Gregory Maqoma from Vuyani Dance Theatre brings his signature choreographic style to the NSA in his staging of two movements from his critically celebrated, The Four Seasons. His Winter expresses the season of loss and despair, while Summer reveals hope and the possibility of a prosperous new dawn.

Dance Spectrum will perform daily at The Mandela at Joburg Theatre with two special evening performances on Wednesday 27th Feb and a gala closing performance on Sat 2nd March giving dance enthusiasts ample opportunity to see the high standards achieved by the NSA Dance Department.

In a true celebration of Heritage, the NSA is proud to present Tranceformations– the ground-breaking seminal work from Sylvia ‘Magogo’ Glasser and Moving Into Dance Mophatong. Created 21 years ago this work was inspired by Bushman/San rock art and trance dancing. Tranceformations is a trailblazing work that has transformed perceptions and attitudes to San culture and to theatrical dance. Tranceformations pays tribute to dispossessed people and their culture.

Sylvia Glasser will present a special lecture on Tranceformations on Wednesday 27 Feb at 10:30am preceding the performance. Although specifically aimed at learners who study this iconic work as part of their dance studies syllabus, the lecture is open to the public and certainly promises to be deeply informative. Tranceformations will be staged in the School Hall daily at 10:30.

From I Dance Productions comes a contemporary dance program entitled White Noise. Raindrops, Heavy, Muse, Art of Motion and Breathing are the works of Angelique Harris and offer her insight into the notions of tradition, honesty, destiny, self-reliance and self-image in the challenging world of the young artist. In the Architect of the Mind, Lauren Jones explores what goes on inside our minds as thoughts and ideas, some original and some borrowed, demand our detailed attention and creative processing.

As part of this year’s Festival of Fame Evening Fringe Program, the public will have the rare opportunity of seeing a showcase of the “work-in-progress” of dancer and theater-maker Vera Ephraim. Vera is one of three gifted cutting-edge female artists chosen to share the early stages of their new work at the NSA Downstairs Theatre. Ntshieng Mokgoro and Naomi Van Niekerk will also be featured in these showcases which are the brain child of NSA Drama Department Artist-in-Residence Kyla Davis and her Well Worn Theatre Company. This exciting use of the Downstairs Theatre at the NSA promises to provide a valuable space for artists and learners to flex their creative muscles and birth brave new work.

The enthralling Vera Ephraim will showcase her new dance work currently known as Transformations. Vera is known for her great versatility and ability to connect African traditional dance and contemporary dance together with acting and movement. Expect to see diverse dance styles in her work as Vera is a specialist in genres such as hip-hop, salsa, afro-caribbean and afro-beat. In this piece she explores the positive and negative sides of her life, shows her doubts and fears, her submission to a strong African tradition and finally the assertion of her authentic self and her creative abilities .

From classical ballet to vibrant physical theatre in the hands of specialists like Tristan Jacobs, Daniel Buckland, Craig Morris and Richard Antrobus. From Afro-Fusion and Spanish to the NSA Drama Departments fascinating movement piece E = MC2 directed by Ndu Msimang and Roger Lambert, Festival of Fame – Expressions of Heritage shows the continuum of our rich dance and movement heritage offering a diverse and stimulating program for all dance and theatre lovers.

www.festivaloffame.co.za

All bookings through Joburg Theatre: www.joburgtheatre.com