Vote for Me!

Vote for Me!

Windybrow Arts Centre in association with the National Children’s Theatre presents Vote for Me.

As South Africa celebrates 30 years of democracy, do the under-18s care about this historic milestone? When adults cast their vote, are they aware that they are voting for leaders who will determine the future of today’s teens? What does leadership even mean in this current moment? Teens may not have a political vote in this year’s polls, but as influencers and followers, they are voting – and leading – all the time. Every “like”, “subscribe” and “follow” is a vote of some kind – but what effects will their clicks and swipes have? 

“Vote for Me” is a new original production where teens get to construct the leader they desire, in an interactive piece presented by a powerful theatrical partnership. NCT joins together with the Kwasha! Theatre Company, Windybrow Arts Centre’s youth company, to ask serious questions in a playful way, designed to get teens talking – and taking charge! What does it mean to be a leader? Is there still a sense of trust between generations as we move into election season? 

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With scripting by Ameera Patel, direction by Lesedi Job, choreography by Julia Burnham, sound design by Sne Dlala and playful performance by the 2024 Kwasha! Theatre Company, “Vote for Me” is aimed directly at high school learners from Grade 8 up, and by connecting the Life Orientation curriculum and the History curriculum in multiple ways, the piece challenges teenagers to think about what leadership means for them, and how to build a bridge between an iconic past and an uncertain future. 

 

Who are you voting for? For me, for you? For us? For them? Do we/they even care? Let this theatre production propel us into optimism as a new generation inherits the future.

 

“Vote for Me” opens on the 19th of February and runs until the 15th of March. For school bookings contact National Children’s Theatre (NCT) on 011 484 1584 and hello@NCTheatreSA.org.za 

Facebook @NCTheatreZA @WindybrowArtsCentre

Instagram @NCTheatreSA @WindybrowArts Centre

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The Market Theatre announces the Zwakala Festival Director and Coordinator for its 30th edition

Zwakala Festival a DSAC Incubation Program

The Zwakala Festival was started in 1992 by John Kani and the late co-founder of the Market Theatre, Barney Simon. It was initially funded by the Rockefeller Foundation. This was just after The Market Theatre Lab; the theatre’s educational arm was established in 1989. Now in its 30th year, the meaningful annual event is currently funded by the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture’s Incubator Programme.

The festival is one of South Africa’s most dynamic and long-standing theatre festivals aimed specifically at community-based theatre makers. Throughout its existence its main aim is to support, platform and enhance the skills-set of writers, directors, and actors. It also trains the participants both in the creative and practical sides of producing a professional theatre piece.

Based on its original format, fieldworkers go out to community groups to develop the participants’ theatre skills and mentor the members of the chosen drama groups.

Participants are taken through workshops to polish their original scripts and acting methods. The final cohort across four productions showcase their work to the public in the Ramolao Makhene Theatre at the Market Theatre Foundation in Newtown.

Judges who are industry experts are selected to choose a winning group. The winning group is given further support and the use of the resources of the Market Theatre Foundation to realise a professional rendition of their initial work with the help of a mentor director and dramaturge.

Past winning productions include Tau directed by Momo Matsunyane (current Standard Bank Young Artist Award Winner for Theatre) and, more recently, Thabo Ramaine and Lonwabo Bhele’s Blacksmith.

Most importantly the festival aims to empower arts practitioners to create and produce local content of a high standard. This is a great platform and often propels the theatre groups to greater visibility within the sector and the broader public.

Experience the electrifying atmosphere of the 30th Zwakala Festival as we commemorate three decades of South African democracy through the lens of Development Theatre.  

Dive into our immersive lineup, starting with the enlightening Funding & Opportunity Workshops on February 23, 2024, from 13:00 to 18:00. Then, join us for a nostalgic trip down memory lane at the Opening Launch on the same day at 19:00.

Engage in thought-provoking discussions during our Panel Discussions on February 24th and 25th, 2024, from 10:00 to 12:00, where we delve into the State of Community Theatre and the rise of Alternative Performance Spaces.

Feel the pulse of creativity at our vibrant Open Mic Sessions on February 24th and 25th, 2024, from 15:30 to 17:00, hosted at the enchanting Market Theatre Lab Courtyard.

Witness theatrical innovation firsthand with three groundbreaking Theatre productions on February 24th and 25th, 2024, at 13:00, 14:30, and 17:00.

Cap off the festivities with our prestigious Festival Awards ceremony on February 25th, 2024, at 18:30, as we celebrate excellence and pay homage to the trailblazers of Development Theatre.

Curated by the visionary duo of Thami aka Mbongo (Festival Director) and Ntambo Rapatla (Festival Coordinator), and supported by the esteemed Market Theatre Foundation and the DSAC Incubator Programme, this edition guarantees an unforgettable fusion of art, culture, and community engagement.”

Prayers

Haunted by the untamed urges that bind him in a web of sexual immorality, he confronts the shadows of his own existence. Is his relentless pursuit of pleasure merely a diversion, a desperate escape from the chilling embrace of self-awareness and the haunting spectre of loneliness?

Age Restriction: 16+

Ticket Price : R10

24-February-2024 17:00

25-February-2024 13:00

 

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Polished 

“Polished” takes you on an electrifying ride of suspense and revelation. With each polished shoe, secrets surface, and the narrative hurtles towards an explosive climax. Brace yourself for the shocking twist.

Age Restriction: 18+

Ticket Price : R10

24-February-2024 14:30

25-February-2024 17:00

 

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An Error Under the Sun 

“An Error Under the Sun” is a roller-coaster of suspense, mysticism, and unexpected alliances, where the pursuit of divine powers takes centre stage.

Age Restriction: 16+

Ticket Price : R10

24-February02024 13:00

25-February-2024 14:30

 

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The Cry of Winnie Mandela

The Cry Of Winnie Mandela

The Cry Of Winnie Mandela is a compelling journey through history, emotion, and the enduring strength of the female South African spirit.

Based on the popular novel by poet, novelist, and essayist Njabulo Ndebele, The Cry of Winnie Mandela is a poignant theatrical production brought to life by The Market Theatre. This thoughtful new play of resilience is adapted by Alex Burger and directed by the award-winning MoMo Matsunyane who is the current Standard Bank Young Artist Winner for Theatre.

Through the imagination of a literary professor, the action centres on the stories of four women who reflect on a period of waiting during the absence of their men. Between intense emotional moments and cleverly injected humour, the dynamic theatrical adaptation weaves together their private accounts, exposing the shadows, isolation, and complexities of their evocative experiences. A series of intimate and powerful conversations unfold as the characters reveal the profound impact of this period of their life, delving into the depths of their longing and uncertainty as they forge their stories to that of the life and times of Winnie Mandela.

The universal theme of waiting is a central motif, allowing the audience to reflect on the historical struggles of women while drawing parallels to their own contemporary lives.

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You are invited to join these resilient women as they gather, share their stories, sing, and metaphorically drink their “tea” – a potent blend of strength and vulnerability.

Don’t miss this powerful exploration of love, resilience, courage, and the indomitable spirit of women.

A cast of six with five females and one male:

1.     Rami Chuene

2.     Ayanda Sibisi

3.     Nambitha Mpumlwana

4.     Siyasanga Papu

5.     Pulane Rampoana

6.     Les Nkosi

Creative Team:

  1. Set & LX Designer: Wilhelm Disbergen
  2. Costume Designer: Onthatile Matshidiso
  3. Sound & AV Designer: Vangile Mpumlwana

Creative Team

Creative Team
Alex Burger

Alex Burger is an award-winning author, screenwriter, and playwright.

His plays include: The Crusaders (Oxford University, in progress) Fees Must Fall (Wits University, 2016), The Inkanyamba (Market Theatre Lab, 2015) and Whose Blood (The Old Operating Theatre London, 2012) which played to a fully sold-out run. His TV credits include head-writing Die Testament One & Two South Africa’s first TV show written for mobile viewing (Netwerk24, 2022 & 2019), Seasons 3 and 4 of the SAFTA-winning TV series Umlilo (eTv 2015-2016), Doubt (Mzansi Magic 2016), and Hard Copy Season 4 (SABC3 2016). He is currently developing multiple TV projects including co-writing a feminist TV series Here She Comes (Infinite Eyes Films), co-developing an African-American satirical series The Campaign (Mundo Loco Films), and writing a Scooby Doo investigation of systemic racism Reparation City.

In his other life, Alex has served as a senior advisor to the World Bank for over twenty years working in thirty-four countries and served as the Vice President of Community Affairs for AngloGold Ashanti – Africa’s largest Mining company (2011-2013). Alex holds an MBA from INSEAD and a BA magna cum laude from Harvard University in the Comparative Study of Religion.

Creative Team
Kgomotso ‘MoMo’ Matsunyane

Kgomotso ‘MoMo’ Matsunyane (b. 1988) is an actor, playwright, director and singer.

MoMo has been a professional actor since 2004 after making her television debut on Thetha Msawawa 2. She obtained an Honours Degree in Dramatic Arts from Wits University in 2012, majoring in Performance as well as Film and Television. She has performed in numerous plays, films and television shows over her 19 year long career and has been nominated for and won several awards including: The Standard Bank Young Artist Award for Theatre in 2023, Hlakanyana The Musical, which won a whopping 8 out of the 14 awards at the 2023 Naledi Theatre Awards. She was also Head Writer for this very musical.

Matsunyane also won for Best Supporting Actress in a Musical for her role as Mawethu along with Best Ensemble and Best Production of a Musical. Other achievements include; Best Actress in A Leading Role and Best Breakthrough Performer nominee (Have You Seen Zandile? ;Naledi Theatre Awards 2014), Best Supporting Actress winner (Ankobia ; SA Theatre Magazine Awards 2017), Best Ensemble winner (Animal Farm; Naledi Theatre Awards 2015), Best Supporting Role nominee (Tsotsi The Musical; Fleur Du Cap Awards 2018) and Best Fringe Productions nominee (Unlearn and Dick Or Date?; Naledi Theatre Awards 2019)

Earlier in 2023, she acted in a new sketch comedy show called Republic Of South Ah directed by Kagiso Lediga and it is currently on popular streaming network Netflix. In June she co-directed Their Silence Left Us Nothing But Tokens in France, Lyon as part of a collaboration between the Market Theatre Laboratory and ENSATT. In the previous year Matsunyane was also festival director of the acclaimed Zwakala Festival and following its success, went on to mentor the director of the winning group as the show took to the stage in October 2023.

In 2022 she also performed in If A Tree Falls which was also directed by acclaimed director Janice Honeyman. In 2020, she performed in Switzerland in Converting Eviction a collaboration between Ntsoana Contemporary Dance Theatre and KMUProduktionen. In 2021 she was cast in Standard Bank Young Artist Award Winner for Dance, Lulu Mlangeni’s NAF production Kganya which made its live debut at the internationally acclaimed festival Afrovibes in 2022 and also enjoyed a run at The State Theatre in July 2023. Matsunyane hopes to grow her production company which has created a platform for her to independently write, produce and star in her own shows as she navigates this often challenging but equally rewarding industry.

Creative Team
Wilhelm Disbergen

Wilhelm Disbergen is a prolific theatre designer who regularly works in all major theatres in South Africa. He is a multiple winner at the annual Naledi Theatre Awards, and has also received a Fleur du Cap award for lighting design.

For theatre, his collaboration with State Theatre’s Artistic Director Aubrey Sekhabi started with Silent Voice, followed by Sekhabi’s three seminal freedom plays – Mantolo: The Tenth Step, Kalushi: The Story of Solomon Mahlangu, and The Rivonia Trial. This was followed by three epoch making musicals – Hungry (a co-production with the SchauSpielHaus Hamburg), and the epoch making Marikana – The Musical, and Freedom The Musical.

Recent work in theatre include Eugène Ionesco’s The Lesson (dir Greg Homan) at the Market Theatre, an immersive production of Ariane Mnouchkine and Théâtre du Soleil’s 1789 (dir Phyllis Klotz and Smal Ndaba) at the Sibikwa Arts Centre, and Napo Mashenane’s ground-breaking musical Thaba Bosiu at PACOFS.

In 2018, he designed Jessica Nupen’s Don’t Trust the Border for Kampnagel, Hamburg. This was followed in the same venue by The Nose, a film/live performance hybrid (2021), and GEMeinsam (2022).

He lit 21 seasons for the Cape Town City Ballet. A highlight was lighting and staging Olivier award winning Muthuthuzeli November’s Ingoma (2021). For Joburg Ballet, he designed Big City, Big Dreams, Whispers of My Soul (chor Redha), and The Nutcracker (chor Angela Malan), last performed at the end of 2023 at the Teatro at Montecasino and The Playhouse in Durban.

At the National Arts Festival, he designed new works for three Standard Bank Young Artists – Moffie for Bailey Snyman (2012), Sabela for Thandezile Sonja Radebe (2017), and Purgatory for Kristi-Leigh Gresse (2022). At the 2018 festival, he designed Black Privilege for Nyamza, the featured artist of the festival. He teamed up again with Snyman for Gas Lands (2019), and Nyamza for Pest Control (2020) and Hatched Ensemble (2023).

Creative Team
Onthatile Matshidiso

Onthatile Matshidiso is production designer and arts educator with 12 years’ experience in using clothes to tell stories. Born in Tlhabane, Rustenburg and now based in Johannesburg, Onthatile grew up in a community that valued the arts in childhood development.  In her household, Onthatile was inspired by her mother who saw the value of a carefully selected wardrobe as a tool of self-expression. Her father taught her meticulous precision in technical drawing.

Onthatile drew inspiration for fashion illustration from fashion spreads in publications such as Elle and True Love Magazine.

Onthatile is a Wits School of Arts graduate with majors in Production Design and Writing. In 2015, she was nominated for a Naledi Award in Costume award, for Matsemela Manaka’s Egoli. Onthatile has served as production design lecturer for The Wits School of Arts’ and for the Market Theatre Laboratory.

Recent credits in costume design include: The Terrified Talabalushi, The Lesson, Tata Etla Gae, and Nina Simone- 4 Women.

A cast of six with five females and one male

Rami Chuene

Rami is one of the leading actresses in South Africa, with 25 years of onscreen storytelling. She is most well-known for her roles in popular local soapies, The Queen, Muvhango, Scandal!, 7de Laan and Backstage. Rami is currently in the popular series, Giyani: Land Of Blood. Some of the TV dramas she has been in include, Inkaba, Harvest, The Republic, Abomzala, It’s Complicated, Justice For All, BET’s daily drama, ISONO, and British/American series, Strike Back. Her roles in movies include Life Above All and Hijack Stories. She appeared in the Netflix Original series, How To Ruin Christmas: The Wedding and its sequels, How To Ruin Christmas: The Funeral and How To Ruin Christmas: The Babyshower.

Rami is also a singer and recording artist, her album From Fear To Love was released in 2014. She is a published author and her memoir, We Kissed The Sun And Embraced The Moon, was published in 2015. She has recently translated veteran author, Professor Es’kia Mphahlele’s novel, Father Come Home, into her native language, Sepedi. In addition to being an actress, singer and author, Rami is a sought after speaker, voice-over artist and MC who has hosted many stage, corporate and TV shows and events. Rami is passionate about being a philanthropist and doing good through her foundation, Rami Chuene Foundation.

Ayanda Sibisi

Ayanda Sibisi was born and raised in KwaNdengezi, Durban. She obtained her National Diploma in Drama studies at the Durban University of Technology. She’s an actress, musician and the Development Executive Producer at Eyethu Films. In a nutshell, Ayanda is an all-around creative who is enthusiastic about arts and passionate about storytelling. Her tv roles include The Herd as MaMzobe the cynical witch, the hilarious romantic comedy “Hawema!” where she played the role of Lindi the go getter. She portrayed the role of Fikani’s mother on 7 de Laan and has had a handful of guest appearances on The Queen, Rockville and SABC1’s 13 Weeks to find Mr Right. She was a contestant on the highly competitive television show Top Actor.

As a theatre practitioner she has worked on various musicals. In 2011 she joined the cast of Cinderella at the Playhouse Theatre. She starred in the stage musical piece Beauty and the Beast as Madame De La Grande Bouche where she got nominated for the best newcomer at the Mercury Durban Theatre Awards. She played the king’s most trusted adviser Rafiki in the internationally acclaimed Lion King at the theatre of the wild in Disneyland, Hong Kong. In 2018 she took on the role of Church Lady Jarene in Alice Walker’s musical version of The Color Purple which received 13 nominations and won 7 of those awards at the Naledi awards in 2019. In 2022 she was nominated for best music video at the 15th Crown Gospel Awards for her hit gospel Amapiano song called Bayede which is currently on high rotation on several radio stations across the country. Her most recent musical production was Third World Express where she starred as the lead (The Queen).

Ayanda is currently putting final touches of her first studio album which will feature a massive storm of hits. There is no stopping this formidable talent and her time is NOW!!

Siyasanga Papu

Siyasanga is a multitalented actress and songstress who has been involved in productions in both theatre and film for over almost 20 years. In 2005 she was part of a production called NewTown. She went on to perform in Relativity: Township Story which played at multiple South African art festivals, later showcasing in Vienna (Austria), the Scotland Fringe and then touring 10

different cities in the UK .

Her other theatre work includes The Wizard of OZ, Jock of the Bushveld, and SATATOO. She played the lead in MARIKANA The Musical for which she got a Naledi Award nomination. She went to get yet another Naledi Award nomination in 2019 for Best Supporting Actress in a Musical for the show she did called Santa Clause is coming to town. In 2022 she joined the cast of the award-winning play called Xova where she played the lead role of Zukiswa. In 2017 she was invited by Dr. Jonas Gwangwa to sing a special rendition at ex-president Thabo Mbeki’s 75th birthday celebration. She did a Cape Town tour of the famous 50s musical called KING KONG The Musical.

She has been in Usindiso (2007), Rhythm City (2008-2009), AMANDLA, 8 MINUETS, 1606, while playing lead on some films for the small screen such as 10 Steps to Make Him Propose, Forget About It and Iizintombi Zodwa. She appeared as Mpumi, a journalist, on Generations The Legacy on SABC 1. Siyasanga was also in the TV series called THE HERD 1&2 broadcast on Mzanzi. She portrayed the role of Fezeka in Isibaya in 2018 and has just finished the 4-year run of Gomora where she portrayed Pretty Molefe – one of the lead characters for which she got a Royal Soapie Award nomination.

She currently has a 5 piece band called MOLO based in Pretoria.

Pulane Rampoana

Puli is a versatile artist with over 17 years of experience in the industry, excelling as an actor, singer, dancer, and vocal coach. She has graced international musical shows like Dreamgirls, Cabaret, and Rocky Horror, while making significant contributions to local productions such as The Hill, Mosali Eo U Nneileng Eena, Jock Of The Bushveld, and Reik Na Die Sterre.

Her musical journey includes noteworthy performances like Bidvest 2015 with Vicky Sampson and Swing City. Puli has shared the stage with acclaimed artists like Thandiswa Mazwai and Ernie Smith, showcasing her talent at Embassies around Pretoria for events attended by government delegates, ambassadors, and ministers. A highlight in her musical career was performing at an event attended by African Jazz legends Ntate Caiphus Semenya and Mama Letta Mbuli.

Beyond music, Puli actively engages in television and radio, contributing as a translator, producer, actor, and voiceover artist. Her recent television series, Lioness, remains available for viewing on DStv.

Nambitha Mpumlwana

Nambitha Mpumlwana is a South African actress best known for her leading roles in the television series Shado’s, Interrogation Room and The Lab; and for her role in the Oscar-winning South African feature film Tsotsi.

She quickly established an acting and presenting career in South Africa starting as a continuity presenter for SABC television before joining the SABC 2 wildlife show 50/50 as a presenter.

Nambitha presented the SABC 2 shows Lebone and Practical Parenting, as well as the SABC 3 show Money. She has performed in the feature films Tama Ba? Tama Na! (1993}, Crazy Joe’s Coco,

Land of a Thousand Hills, Beyond Borders (2003}, Country of My Skull (2004}, Red Dust (2004)

and Tsotsi (2005).

In October 2007 Nambitha won the Golden Horn award for Best Actress in a TV Drama at the second annual SAFTAs for her role as Pearl Lusipho in the SABC 3 drama series The Lab. She has also been nominated for a SAFTA Golden Horn for Best Actress in TV Soap for Generations (1993). In November, 2009 Nambitha returned to 7de Laan in her role as Zandile.

She has performed in numerous theatre productions, including The Dead Wait, Black Age, Whale, In Search of Dragon’s Mountain, Love and Other Strange Things, Beauty and the Beast of Oracle, Apart, The Power of Harriett T, Business of Health, See Here! It’s Africa and The Caribbean.

Les Nkosi

Les Nkosi is a passionate creative-change-practitioner through arts therapies, research and facilitation as well as an entrepreneur. He holds a Master’s degree through Wits University. His experience in facilitation and behavior-change spans well over 20 years. Les spent most of his career in the arts playing roles of support, either as a producer, director or a friend of an artist.

Les is a recipient of Wits University’s Marshal Kander Award for Most Outstanding Research. He has forged relationships with the Wits Centre for Diversity Studies (WiCDS) in creating meaningful transformation processes in race relations and change.

His portfolio of work on screen incudes, playing varying roles of support in popular television including Scandal, Working On It, Stout, The River, Generations the Legacy, The Docket, Sokhulu and Partners, and Isibaya. His theatre work includes directing Come As you Are (CAYA) at the Soweto Theatre and

Jobe at the Joburg Theatre. The Cry of Winnie Mandela will be Les’ first stage role as an actor – he is exceptionally excited to be part of this production. 

Goethe Library Jams

Goethe Library Jams

The Goethe-Institut’s Goethe Library Jams returns in December 2023 – this time with a three-episode weekend event featuring Kujenga, Vivacious Voices under the tutelage of Yonela Mnana and The Brother Moves On.

For this special edition of what the German institute calls “Tiny Desk Concerts but in a Joburg library”, a two-day celebration will host three collectives of some of South Africa’s most gifted artist in front of a select audience.

On 2 December 2023, The Brother Moves On celebrates a decade of its first full-length album, A New Myth. Released on 4 December 2013, a day before former president Nelson Mandela’s death (“there are no coincidences, says band leader Siyabonga Mthembu), the album was described as having “prophetic resonance” by the Mail & Guardian in its call for a “reactivated reality”.

The Market Photo Workshop Courtyard will play host to the avant-garde collective for the special 16th episode of the Goethe Library Jams to celebrate its album’s 10th anniversary. The group will play six tracks from A New Myth arranged by members of the The Brother Moves On

Internationally acclaimed South African artist Nolan Oswald Dennis reunites with The Brother Moves on for the special performance. Oswald Dennis designed A New Myth’s album cover and will collaborate with BJ Engelbrecht a long time collaborator and founding member of The Brother Moves On.

Episodes 14 and 15 will be performed and recorded as per the series’ usual format on Saturday, 1st December 2023 at the Market Photo Workshop Library. These episodes will performed in front of a 30-person audience of Market Photo Workshop and will be stripped down in amplification and will showcase the band as never seen before.

Featuring Kujenga, a seven-piece Cape Town jazz band dubbed as “Cape Town’s answer to the vibrant Johannesburg jazz scene” by those in the know and Vivacious Voices, a choir under the tutelage of pianist and musical maestro Yonela Mnana. The 1st of December 2023 promises to be an out of the ordinary experience for 60 lucky audience members.

Buy tickets to The Goethe Library Jams on Webtickets or any affiliated distributor or at The Market Theatre box office.

— ENDS

The Goethe Library Jam  

Episode: 14 – Kujenga at Johannesburg Market Photo Workshop Library

Episode 15 –  Vivacious Voices lead by Yonela Mnana at Market Photo Workshop Library

Episode 16 – The Brother Moves On presents “A New Myth, Ten Years Later” ft Kujenga, Yonela Mnana ft Vivacious Voices at the Market Photo Workshop Square

Performance/recording dates:

1st December 2023 (Friday) – Episode 14 & 15

2nd  December 2023 (Saturday) – Episode 16

Dramaturge and director: Thantaswa May

Production manager: Deshnee Subramany

Costume and set design: No Budget Productions

Animation: Nolan Oswald Dennis

Dancers/performance artists: Windybrow Dancers

 

 

Featured Musical Artists

Kujenga

“Hymn for Hani” by Kujenga

A seven-piece Cape Town jazz band has been making waves in the country as Cape Town’s answer to the vibrant Johannesburg scene. Featuring a three-piece horn section, the band would bolster The Brother Moves On two piece horn section to form a five-piece horn section directed by Mthunzi Mvubu.

Yonela Mnana

Yonela Mnana – House on the Hill Concert

Yonela Mnana is a South African blind jazz scholar, a recording singer and jazz pianist who also teaches and composes. His Catholic School tuition coupled with the Sepedi and home town IsiXhosa musical background seep through his jazz inspired compositions effortlessly. His high school choral experience was later crystallised by his classical and jazz lectures at Wits University where he completed junior and masters degrees (B.Mus and M.Mus) with distinction.

Vivacious Voices lead by Yonela Manana

Vivacious Voices Facebook Page

Vivacious Voices is a music education programme in Katlehong that has borne fruit in the form of a n eight-piece choir (four men and four women) under the tutelage of pianist and musical maestro Yonela Manana. The choir recently performed with The Brother Moves On as part of Mandla Mlangeni’s “Oratoria of A Forgotten Youth” which featured Lesego Rampolokeng.

Featured Performance Artists

Nolan Oswald Dennis

Nolan Dennis Goodman Gallery Artist Page

Nolan Oswald Dennis (b. 1988, Zambia) is a para-disciplinary artist from Johannesburg, South Africa. Their practice explores what they call “a black consciousness of space”: the material and metaphysical conditions of decolonization. Dennis’s work questions the politics of space (and time) through a system-specific, rather than site-specific approach. They are concerned with the hidden structures that pre-determine the limits of our social and political imagination.

In collaboration with The Brother Moves On Dennis draws on a white sheet with a black marker while video of iconic South African moments is projected on his white suit and canvas. These moments range from Josiah Tongwane winning the Olympic marathon to the release of Nelson Mandela. The artifact of the performance is always rendered as a utility piece which will be used by the dancers and performance artists and therefore destroyed. Nolan Dennis designed the original cover to “A New Myth”.

No Budget Productions

“Rainbow Child” by The Brother Moves On shot by No Budget Productions

“Babalaas” by The Brother Moves On shot by No Budget Productions

No Budget Productions consists of the late founder Nkululeko Mthembu and BJ Engelbrecht –  early performance artists and music video directors for The Brother Moves On. The Sunday performance will showcase a giant stage mimicking the Rainbow Child video television with recreations of The Brother Moves On’s Bagman, Boxman and Tapeman characters. The duo’s ethos of making with what you have created the early aesthetic of The Brother Moves On. 

Discovr TV

Discovr TV website

Discovr TV is a dynamic and innovative live streaming and video production company dedicated to helping individuals, businesses, and organisations deliver engaging and captivating content to a global audience. With cutting-edge technology, creative expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence, DiscovrTV are the go-to partner for live streaming and video production support.

DiscovrTV Productions was created in 2019 by Julian von Plato and Thabo Rametsi with the objective of building an African video production and distribution service

Their clients include Black Coffee, Kunye, RiSA, Nova Nordisk, Jägermeister, Jonnie Walker, Heineken, City of Joburg, Arts Alive, Basadi, FNB, Nedbank, Rand Merchant Bank, Bosch Rexroth,  Vodacom, MTN, Boston Scientific, Bassline Events, Netflix, Amazulu and more.

Jayson Tshebe live

Jayson Tshebe live

Pretoria, South Africa – Equator Concepts Pty Ltd is thrilled to announce that Jayson Tsebe, a rising star in the world of Afrocentric music, will be headlining the Kippies Fringe Program. Known for his exceptional talent and passion for Afrocentric sounds, Jayson Tsebe has captivated audiences with his one-man band performances inspired by legendary artists such as Umanji, Oliver Mtukudzi, Philip Tabane, and Selaelo Selota.

Jayson Tsebe’s musical journey began in the rural areas of Limpopo, where he gained recognition for his African-inspired performances. This early success culminated in the release of his debut album, “Potential,” in 2018, which opened doors to major festivals and opportunities.

Having performed at renowned festivals such as The Marula Jazz Festival and Phangweni Vibes Music Festival, where he shared the stage with music icons like Salif Keita and Sjava, Jayson’s talent was quickly recognized. In 2019, he furthered his musical education by moving to Pretoria to study Musical Theatre, simultaneously organizing live music events that showcased collaborations with artists from various disciplines.

Not only an accomplished musician, but Jayson Tsebe has also made a mark in the theatrical world, securing lead roles in popular productions like Walt Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” and Dalro’s Dance season. In 2021, he graduated Cum Laude and released “Mapula The Rain Queen,” an audio musical he wrote, directed, and made available for free on YouTube.

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As his star continued to rise, Jayson Tsebe graced the Hugh Masekela Festival in 2022, performing a lead role during the tribute to Don Mattera. He also organized a series of events titled “Tsebe ya Mmino Theatre Concert,” funded by the National Arts Council, taking his music directly to the villages of his hometown.

In 2023, Jayson Tsebe achieved yet another milestone by performing a leading role at the South African State Theatre during a tribute to Oliver Tambo. He played the young OR Tambo and showcased his musical prowess as a guitarist with the accompanying band. His exceptional performance caught the attention of former ANC President Thabo Mbeki, who attended the tribute twice and commended the cast for their remarkable work.

Jayson Tsebe’s dedication and talent have been further recognized, earning him a spot among 12 other artists in a mentorship workshop by The Centre for the Less Good Idea as part of the William Kentridge production, “The Head and The Load.” This year, he was honored to headline the prestigious RedHill Arts Festival in Sandton.

Equator Concepts Pty Ltd is excited to bring Jayson Tsebe’s soulful and captivating performance to the Kippies Fringe Program, where he will undoubtedly leave the audience mesmerized and inspired.

Don’t miss this incredible performance! Buy your tickets now through Computicket.co.za or at your nearest retail store.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Equatorconcepts.info@gmail.com

0670716946

About Jayson Tsebe:

Jayson Tsebe is a multi-talented musician, songwriter, and actor hailing from South Africa. His music is deeply rooted in Afrocentric sounds, drawing inspiration from renowned artists like Umanji, Oliver Mtukudzi, Philip Tabane, and Selaelo Selota. Jayson’s journey is marked by a passion for bringing African music to audiences around the world, and his performances are a celebration of culture and artistry.

Event Details:

Date: 29 NOVEMBER TO – 03 DECEMBER 2023

Time: 19:30 & 15:00

Venue: KIPPIES

Tickets:  Available at Computicket and your nearest retail store.

Event Website: Markettheatre.org.za

Follow Jayson Tsebe

Facebook: (www.facebook.com/jayson.tsebe.3)

Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/jayson_tsebe)

YouTube: (https://www.youtube.com/jaysontsebe)

NEXT!!!

NEXT!!!

Wela Kapela Productions presents  NEXT!!! Auditions are not for the faint of heart – (Best Debut Production, United Solo, New York )   6-8 December @ Market theatre Centre on the   Kippies Fringe programme.”

My sister, Veronica, and I had this double act….. The young Relebogithata, is entranced, it is the third time she has seen this show. Her bright brown eyes sparkle as she soaks up every word, every move, every nuance. As the audience leaves the theatre, Relebogilethata just sits there with a little knowing smile. She softly whispers “I want to be a star!”.

10 years later Relebogithata see-saw between working as a waitress and auditions! Yet she clings to her near-impossible dream of starring as Velma Kelly in Chicago!

Is this the right song to impress?  STEP, KICK ,KICK, TOUCH, TURN my feet hurt, I am a sweaty mess…6-7-8…I need this break…NEXT!!! In this roller coaster ride of heartache and hope, Relebogilethata bounces from one audition to the next, performing popular musical numbers to powerful isiXhosa songs by Miriam Makeba. ANYTHING to avoid the dreaded Next!!!

Against this background, Dikelo, takes the audience through the highs and lows of our feisty young performer’s journey.  She slips between the eight different character with ease, yet it is her portrayal of the feisty, fun loving Relebogilethata,  that enables her to engage in a direct, emotional conversation with the audience. Using comedy, music and dance, Relebogilethata will dazzle you.

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NEXT!! is a Wela Kapela production the cabaret is a written and directed by Amanda Bothma, with Jacques Du Plessis  as musical director.

WHEN: 6-8 December 2023   WHERE: Kippies Fringe@Market Theater TIME: 19:30

PRICE: R100 pp

https://www.facebook.com/welakapelaproductions https://www.instagram.com/welakapelaproductions

Sophiatown

Sophiatown returns to The Market Theatre!

The much-loved South African theatre classic, Sophiatown, will make a return to its original home at the Market Theatre after it first premiered there 37 years ago. The multi-award-winning drama with music by The Junction Avenue Theatre Company will open in February 2024 in a dynamic new production directed by Aubrey Sekhabi, complete with a live band on stage.

The production comes to The Market after a hugely successful season in 2023 at The South African State Theatre in Pretoria. Aubrey Sekhabi, who is the Artistic Director at The State Theatre, directs this powerful and moving restaging of the iconic work.

Sekhabi has retained his creative team and cast for the Johannesburg run, which includes Lungile Cindi (Set Design), Mandala Mtshali (Lighting Designer), Zakhele Mabena (Musical Director), Bafikile Sedibe (Choreographer) and actor Terrence Ignacious Ngwila who plays Mingus.

“Dealing with the script, I realised that Sophiatown is actually a drama with music and not a musical play. The text is so rich, even if you remove the songs, it will still hold up as a powerful play,” says Sekhabi about the show.

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Greg Homann, the Artistic Director of The Market Theatre, commented, “It is wonderful to be able to offer our audience this beautifully crafted version of Sophiatown at The Market Theatre. When I first saw the production at The State Theatre with a full house of school learners one Friday afternoon, I was so enthralled with how that audience connected with the history, humour, and overall impact that the work still has for us today. It’s a privilege to be able to welcome Sophiatown back to its home theatre, where it can be shared again with those that know and love it, and with those that are seeing the work for the very first time.”

During the repressive 50s, two Drum magazine journalists advertise for a tenant to come live with them in Mamariti’s shebeen in the freehold township of Sophiatown. To their surprise, a White Jewish girl from Yeoville arrives on their doorstep. Sparks fly in the milieu of Sophiatown culture that mixes Drum magazine journalism, jazz, literature, tsotsitaal and gangsterism. Audiences will be mesmerised by the musical genres of marabi, kofifi and kwela all inspired by the defiant residents of the mixed area, which, by its mere existence, was a thorn in the side of the Apartheid establishment.

Sekhabi, on the relevance of the play today, shares, “The question of identity, landlessness, education, and race relations still haunts South Africa. A piece like Sophiatown reminds us of how far we have come and how much work still needs to be done to create a better South Africa”.

The play was a product of The Junction Avenue Theatre Company’s workshop method in the mid-1980s of sourcing stories from the lived reality of the people of Sophiatown and then distilling these nuggets to produce the text.

The cast includes Terence Ngwila (as Mingus), Sindisile Nkuna (as Mamariti), Gaby Georgeson (as Ruth), Mncedisi Hadebe (as Charlie), Tshallo Chokwe (as Fahfee), Princess Sechele (as Princess), Zimi Mphefu (as Lulu), Sechaba Ramphele (as Jakes), and Sandisile Dlangalala (as the understudy to Jakes). Philisiwe Ntintili assists Sekhabi on the director’s seat. The band members include Khutso Nkwana, Thebe Mmushi, M’Kaddesh Magadagela, Surprise Mshwana and Oupa Makhubela.

The production runs at The Market Theatre from 27 February to 24 March, with matinees for schools during the week and various weekend performances for the public. Book early via Webtickets for this theatre classic that is guaranteed to move you.

ENDS

For media enquiries please contact Lusanda Zokufa (Brand and Communication Manager at the Market Theatre Foundation) at lusandaz@marketheatre.co.za or (011) 832 1641 or 072 367 7867.

For reduced price block bookings (of 10 or more) and school groups, contact Anthony Ezeoke (Audience Development) at AnthonyE@markettheatre.co.za or 083 246 4950.

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New Energy as The Market Theatre lines up its end-of-the-year programming.

New Energy as The Market Theatre lines up its end-of-the-year programming.

This festive season, The Market Theatre has an exciting family-friendly end-of-the-year programme on offer with two brand-new South African plays on its stages.  

The Market Theatre has enjoyed a period of newfound energy and success in the recent months under the leadership of its new Artistic Director, Greg Homann, who took up the role in January. Across a remarkable year of diverse work, the theatre has presented outstanding productions such as Mpume Mthombeni and Neil Coppen’s Isidlamlilo, J Bob’s Tshabalala’s Khongolose Khommanding Khommissars, and the stage adaptation of Damon Galgut’s The Promise, along with a lineup of sensational music concerts that has included Billy Monama’s Mayibuye iAfrika, The Mahotella Queens, The African Jazz Pioneers, and Desire Marea. It hosted three festivals, namely Jomba! @ The Market with innovative international dance performances, WOMAD @ The Market celebrating world music diversity, and The Cradle of Creativity for young audiences. In August, The Market Theatre paid a fitting tribute to John Kani on the occasion of the legendary actor’s eightieth birthday. This month it relaunched the newly refurbished Barney Simon Theatre with the award-winning dance-drama from the Cape, Karatara, based on loss experienced around the Kynsna fires of 2018.

The Market Theatre is now gearing up for a festive season filled with entertainment, laughter, and inspiration.

The theatrical centrepiece of this end-of-the-year programming is the brand-new South African comedy A Marry Little Christmas, written by Homann himself. The play was commissioned during the 2020 pandemic shutdown by How Now Brown Cow Productions, who are now co-producing the work in partnership with The Market Theatre.

The laugh-a-minute new comedy is being brought to life by an outstanding cast of nine, directed by the multiple award-winning Charmaine Weir-Smith.

Set against the backdrop of an unnamed golf estate on the north-west edge of Johannesburg, the story revolves around Arnold Hartmann, who, at 45 and three-quarters, aims to propose to Natalie Cloete before hosting the perfect ‘traditional’ Christmas lunch. However, chaos ensues as both families arrive prematurely, leading to hilarious chaos and misunderstandings.

Homann shares, “This play has been a few years in the making, with the initial idea for it dating back to an animated festive lunch with my own family. Although not based directly on any one Christmas gathering, the roots of it are deeply connected to my own family’s dynamics and antics.”

The sensational cast features some of South Africa’s best loved talent and stars, with Antony Coleman and Kim Cloete returning to The Market as the leading couple at the centre of the comedy. They are joined by James Borthwick, Judy Ditchfield, Louise Saint-Claire, Ilse Klink, Roberto Pombo, Zolani Shangase, and Trevor Lynch.

A Marry Little Christmas will premiere on the John Kani stage from 29 November to 24 December. It is a must-see production for the holiday season.

For a younger audience, The Market Theatre, in collaboration with the Windybrow Arts Centre, is presenting The Terrified Talabalushi, a new play with music for children, directed by award-winning Omphile Molusi. It features live music by multi-instrumentalist and composer Volley Nchabeleng who is creating an immersive atmosphere and sound for the play. Bringing this playful and meaningful adventure to life is The Kwasha! Theatre Company, known for their production Skin We Are In which has travelled to many schools this year, along with actors Sanelisiwe Yekani and Siyambonga Mdubeki.

Set in the Knysna forest, The Terrified Talabalushi follows Tokkie, a young Talabalushi who is terrified of everything, but mostly the light.

The Terrified Talabalushi is a fun filled play that promises to be an excellent way to explore the emotions of fear in a safe and entertaining way, while growing a love for the theatre. Don’t miss the opportunity to share in this heartfelt, enriching, and lively theatrical experience, perfect for all audiences.

If you, your family, and friends are looking for something different to do this festive season, then The Market Theatre is the place to be, offering a diverse range of performances that cater to all audiences.

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THE MARKET THEATRE CALL FOR APPLICATIONS ZWAKALA FESTIVAL DIRECTOR

THE MARKET THEATRE CALL FOR APPLICATIONS ZWAKALA FESTIVAL DIRECTOR

The Zwakala Festival continues to remain one of South Africa’s most dynamic theatre festivals aimed specifically at community-based theatre-makers. The festival’s main aim is to improve the skills of writers, directors, designers, and actors. It empowers them to create and produce local content of a high standard and trains the next generation of community arts leaders, arts entrepreneurs and administrators. It also takes participants through a journey of both the creative and practical sides of producing a professional theatre piece.

The Market Theatre is  seeking to appoint, on a fixed term basis, a dynamic individual to be a Festival Director of the 30th  Zwakala Festival.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Selection of productions to participate in the festival through showcasing
  • Provide dramaturge and artistic input to  groups selected to participate in the 30th Zwakala Festival
  • Regular visits to groups in preparation for the festival
  • Provide regular feedback to groups
  • Schedule the performances for the festival
  • Oversee the successful implementation of the 30th Zwakala Festival

REQUIREMENTS

  • A degree or relevant qualification in the arts
  • A minimum of 5 year experience in the development of theatrical productions
  • Proven experience in working with community based arts organisations
  • Proven track record of mentoring in theatre and leading to mounting a production
  • Be able to understand and / or speak three African languages

Interested applicants to submit a one pager motivation indicating their experience working as Director or mentor  in theatrical production. Outlining their experience in working with community arts organizations. A detailed CV.

Applicants should be available on 15 -17 December 2023 and from 16 January to 1 March 2024

Applications should be sent via email to: proposals@markettheatre.co.za

Closing date: 04 December 2023

THE MARKET THEATRE CALL FOR APPLICATIONS ZWAKALA FESTIVAL CO-ORDINATOR

THE MARKET THEATRE CALL FOR APPLICATIONS ZWAKALA FESTIVAL CO-ORDINATOR

The Zwakala Festival continues to remain one of South Africa’s most dynamic theatre festivals aimed specifically at community-based theatre-makers. The festival’s main aim is to improve the skills of writers, directors, designers, and actors. It empowers them to create and produce local content of a high standard and trains the next generation of community arts leaders, arts entrepreneurs and administrators. It also takes participants through a journey of both the creative and practical sides of producing a professional theatre piece.

The Market Theatre is  seeking to appoint, on a fixed term basis, a dynamic individual to be a Festival Coordinator of the 30th  Zwakala Festival.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Working closely with the Festival Director in mentoring of community based arts groups
  • Support the play development process working closely with the Festival Director.
  • Oversee all logistics including festival coordination, festival planning, implementation and reporting.
  • Provide administrative support to the Festival Director

REQUIREMENTS

  • A relevant qualification in the arts
  • A minimum of 2-3 years experience in the development of theatrical productions
  • Proven experience in working with community based arts organisations
  • Project Management skill
  • Be able to understand and / or speak three African languages
  • Valid Drivers Licence

Interested applicants to submit a one pager motivation indicating their experience in administration of arts projects. Outlining their experience in working with community arts organizations. A detailed CV.

Applicants should be available on 15 -17 December 2023 and from 16 January to 1 March 2024

Applications should be sent via email to: proposals@markettheatre.co.za

Closing date: 04 December 2023