As the annual National Arts Festival officially kicks off in Makhanda on Thursday, several exciting new premieres are set to entertain audiences while some big names and exciting shows are back to thrill.
Included in this year’s programme is the SA premier of Jazzart’s Requiem, fresh from their UK tour.
The 2011 Standard Bank Young Artist of the Year award-winner in the dance category, Mamela Nyamza, will present the first performance of Hatched Ensemble.
And there will also be plenty of “final acts” so do not miss out.
This year, will be the last time dancer Gregory Maqoma performs live on stage.
It will also be the last chance for music lovers to see songstress and 2022 Standard Bank Young Artist award-winner Asanda Mvana, known professionally as Msaki, before she retreats from public life.
Families will have plenty to see and do, including the Boston Youth Orchestra, which will perform a family concert in the Guy Butler Auditorium at the 1820 Settlers Monument.
Award-winning mentalist and magician from Gqeberha, Brendon Peel, will bring his magical skills to the stage and produce five shows which will run throughout the festival.
While Peel will perform two solo acts, he and fellow illusionist and magician, and long-time stage partner Li Lau, will also present their double act, Double Bluff: An Extreme Magic Show.
Lau will also perform two solo shows.
For those in need of a good laugh, award-winning comedian Kagiso KG Mokgadi returns to Makhanda as does funnyman Rob van Vuuren, who will host The Very Big Comedy Show.
Kate Pinchuck, who holds nothing back and gives you all the details, will also perform.
If the budget is a bit tight, there are plenty of free performances to enjoy, such as the SAfm Sundowner Concerts daily at 5pm at the 1820 Settlers Monument.
There are also several free exhibitions and art talks, while the Village Green will be open to the public with an array of stalls for browsing.
Of course, the variety of food on offer never disappoints.
National Arts Festival chief executive Monica Newton said there was a lot of excitement around the festival’s big music acts, Ami Faku and Vusi Nova.
“Be sure to grab tickets before they are all sold out.
“As always there are lots of diverse and interesting works to see so come and soak it all up,” Newton said.
The National Arts Festival runs from June 22 to July 2.
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