Kyle Shepherd Trio play Cape Town; Japan Tour next

 

Kyle Shepherd in a “DREAMSTATE – by gregory frans

The renowned Kyle Shepherd Trio will perform in Cape Town ahead of their Japanese Tour.

 

Just one day before they embark on their highly anticipated Japanese Tour, The Kyle Shepherd Trio, one of South Africa’s most progressive Jazz Trios, performs at The Reeler Theatre at Rondebosch Boys’ High School, Canigou Avenue, Rondebosch, Cape Town on Thursday, 19 May 2016, 8pm.

 

Already a regular visitor to Japan where he has performed mostly solo piano concerts, Shepherd is particularly thrilled that he’s able to tour there with his trio this time round. “After four solo tours – in as many years – to Japan, I’m very happy to be taking my trio to the country which is one of my favorite places in the world to perform in. A big thank you to my tour promoter, Seigo Matsunaga for organising the tour. I’m really looking forward to playing for the wonderful Japanese audiences again!” said Shepherd.Featuring Shepherd on piano, Shane Cooper on double bass and Jonno Sweetman on drums, this inspiring and inventive Trio, who have been together for the past six years, have captivated audiences across South Africa, Canada, Switzerland, China, Mozambique and Botswana. Their debut tour of Canada in June 2015 included performances at the Ottawa International Jazz Festival, the Victoria International Jazz Festival, the Vancouver International Jazz Festival and Festival International de Jazz de Montréal. The Trio performs compositions from band leader, Kyle Shepherd’s rich and evocative repertoire of both recorded and new unreleased original compositions!

“This is a true trio – intricately intertwining as they play Shepherd’s music; pensive and exhilarating by turns.” Nigel Vermaas, Jazz presenter & producer, South Africa.

 

Kyle Shepherd, arguably one of South Africa’s leading progressive pianists and composers of his generation, is fast gaining international recognition for his distinctive compositional style and performances. The twenty-eight-year-old virtuoso pianist who has a well-established record of celebrated performances in South Africa, Europe, Asia, Canada and the USA has already released five (5) critically acclaimed albums in his young career. ‘Dream State’, a 21-track double album of his Trio released in 2014, garnered nominations for both the 2015 South African Music Award [SAMA] and a 2015 Metro FM Music Award in the Jazz Category. His debut solo piano offering ‘Into Darkness’, recorded in Japan, was launched with a tour in the South-East Asian country in the same year [2014] and included a performance at the prestigious Tokyo Jazz Festival. Previous releases ‘fineART’, ‘A Portrait of Home’ & ‘South African History !X’, have also attracted SAMA nominations.

 

The award-winning Shepherd, recipient of both the coveted ‘UNISA National Piano Competition Award [2015] and the ‘Standard Bank Young Artist of the Year’ Award [2014] in the Jazz Category recently completed the music score for an independent film entitled ‘Noem My Skollie’. The film, a moving crime drama set in Cape Town in the late 60s, was written by John Fredericks and directed by Daryne Joshua. Shepherd’s music will also feature prominently in rising independent film-maker Nadine Cloete’s documentary ‘Action Kommandant’ which is based on the life of the South African liberation hero, Ashley Kriel. Both films are set for release later this year [2016].

CONCERT INFORMATION:

Venue: The Reeler Theatre, Rondebosch Boys’ High School, Canigou Avenue, Rondebosch, Cape Town

Date: Thursday, 19 May 2016

Time: 8pm

Entry Fee: R100.00. Students pay R 80:00. Cash at the door.

Reservations: Whatsapp / Sms or call 082 950 7309 or e-mail fineartmusic@gmail.com or the online booking form – http://goo.gl/forms/UICDyVpdet or at the door.

Secure parking is available in Rondebosch Boys’ High School grounds.

Concert-goers who arrive 30 minutes before the show starts will receive a complimentary glass of wine or fruit juice.

JAPANESE TOUR SCHEDULE:

22 & 23 May 2016 – SHIKIORI, Miyawaka, Fukuoka

25 May 2016 – SAIKOUJI, Toyohashi, Aichi

26 May 2016 – KYOTO ART CENTER, Kyoto, Kansai

28 May 2016 – ANYOUINN, Tokyo

29 May 2016 – GARAMAN HALL, Ginoza, Okinawa

30 May 2016 – SCARECROW, Ishigaki Island, Okinawa

01 June 2016 – BOOK CAFÉ BREATHE, Miyako Island, Okinawa

 

MEDIA & CONCERT ENQUIRIES:

Theo Lawrence (fineART Music)

Mobile 072 351 5204

E-mail: fineartmusic@gmail.com

Website: www.kyleshepherd.co.za

 

JAPANESE TOUR ENQUIRIES:

Seigo Matsunaga

E-mail: seigojazz@gmail.com

 

RELATED VENUE:

Reeler Theatre, Rondebosch Boys’ High School, Western Cape, South Africa

 

Artslink.co.za Account:

Theo Lawrence

fineartmusic@gmail.com

072 351 5204

fineART Music CC

www.kyleshepherd.co.za

 

Granville Skippers reviews Ramon Alexander’s “Echoes from Louwskloof”

“Echoes from Louwskloof” a second release from Ramon Alexander

Four years after his debut album, “Picnic at Kontiki”, released in 2011, Ramon Alexander treats us to his second album release, “Echoes from Louwskloof”.

The opening track, “Apex” is a top song! This track bursts onto the soundscape with an explosive intro of sax and piano in synchronicity. The listener’s ear is drawn almost immediately to the tone of the sax played by Zeke Le Grange.

The piano and swinging bass line drives an energetic tempo to a brief but impressive drum solo by Annemie Nel.

Then, all of a sudden, the track slows down into a sublime bass interlude by Chadleigh Gowar whose bass picking and bass chord playing meanders deftly back into the main melody but with reduced tempo led by Annemie Nel in a bossa style. Ramon’s piano playing shines intensely on this segment of this track.

“Au Lait” begins with an undulating melody of piano and moody tenor sax then introduces a flugelhorn played by Marco Maritz. Interestingly enough, in his liner notes Ramon states that he wrote this when he was heartbroken and 19 years old. This track is well crafted to reflect the pain of unrequited love filled with moody and tumultuous emotions.

The tempo set by the piano portrays waves of emotion, the sax lines are moody at first then accelerate into impressive scales and octave ranges and at times the flugelhorn wails, lamenting the turmoil of a broken heart.

However, Ramon further states that this track has a completely new meaning to him which is why it builds up to a joyous, triumphant finish.

“This is the Greenhouse that Jack Momple built” is a musical tribute to a man whom Ramon likens as a father. Ramon’s use of the Fender Rhodes creates a vintage sound reminiscent of the era when Jack Momple played drums with Pacific Express, a band of musicians who were ground-breakers both musically and politically during the 1970’s in South Africa.

Jack Momple was a founder member of the band which nurtured many young musicians such as Tony Cedras, Jonathan Butler, Alvin Dyers, Stompie Manana, Barney Rachabane, Basil Coetzee and Robbie Jansen whose musical talents blossomed in the Greenhouse that Jack Momple built.

“I wish I knew Mankunku” is inspired by legendary sax player Winston Mankunku’s version of the Harry Warren / Mack Gordon classic, “I wish I knew”. Zeke aptly honours the memory of Winston Mankunku with excellent phrasing.

Ramon gives his very best on this track with an absolutely stunning piano solo which in itself is a Master Class performance! These two musicians are ably supported by swinging bass and drums.

“A little walk on the beach with a Sea Lion” is a fun title.

On this track Ramon uses the Fender Rhodes to create a melody that sets ones fingers into motion, inspired to keep up with the rhythm of the song.

That sweet sounding sax is as cool as an ice cream Sundae on the beach.

“Giant steps” is renowned as a sax piece as it was composed and made popular by John Coltrane.

However, Ramon leads the track with a classic keyboard sound. Zeke does not disappoint with fluent sax playing throughout, supported by Shaun Johannes on acoustic bass and Annemie Nel’s deft drum work.

“Sons and Captains” is a tribute to two of Ramon’s musical influences, viz:- Robbie Jansen and the sons of Table Mountain as well as Mac McKenzie and the Ghoema Captains.

Ghoema is an authentic Cape Town sound with mesmerising rhythmic drum beats infectiously uplifting the spirits of the listener and most certainly invokes a spontaneous dance in response.

Annemie drives this song with percussive rhythms.

Zeke’s tone is reminiscent of the late Robbie Jansen and Chadleigh’s bass lines reminds one of Mac Mckenzie when he played with The Genuines. Once again, Ramon’s solo commands the listener to take note of and appreciate his immense talent.

This track is a fitting tribute to musical icons that held high the banner of Cape musical traditions.

“Louwskloof se mense” (The people of Louwskloof) pays homage to Ramon’s hometown in Mamre, north of Cape Town. Punchy bass and piano lines with a raspy sax introduce a reflective piece of a legacy left by the Khoisan forefathers of Louwskloof.

A rhythmic drum beat driven initially by rim shots sets the tempo for a musical landscape where the musicians paint a picture of a culture rich with musical heritage.

Ramon Alexander’s “Echoes from Louwskloof” is a timeless legacy of one man’s reflection on his musical and homely heritage. Enjoy it!

You will. Get it. Repeat. Put it on repeat.

The album release date was 31 October 2015 and is available on iTunes.

The Ramon Alexander Band:

Ramon Alexander – Piano; Fender Rhodes

Zeke Le Grange – Tenor sax; Alto sax (Tracks 5, 7)

Chadleigh Gowar – Electric bass

Annemie Nel – Drums

Shaun Johannes – Acoustic bass (Track 6)

Marco Maritz – Flugelhorn (Track 2)

Recorded by Gerhard Roux and David De Villiers at SUN Studios, Stellenbosch.

Mixed by Gerhard Roux at SUN Studios.

Tracks 3, 5, 6 recorded by Shaun Johannes at Mahogany Studios, Cape Town.

Mastered by Tim Lengfeld at TL Mastering.

Ramon Alexander recorded on Yamaha CF3 Grand Piano and Yamaha keyboards.

Album design: Leonardo Fortuin and Igshann Ramjoo-mia at i-Studios.

All music composed by Ramon Alexander except “Giant Steps” – composed by John Coltrane.

Track list:

1. Apex
2. Au Lait
3. This is the Greenhouse tha Jack Momple built
4. I wish I knew Mankunku
5. A little walk on the beach with a Sea Lion
6. Giant Steps
7. Sons and Captains
8. Louwskloof se mense

Artist website: http://www.ramon-alexander.com/

Buy his music online: https://itunes.apple.com/au/artist/ramon-alexander/id686872501

Follow him on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ramon.alexander1?fref=ts

Reviewed by: Granville Skippers, 16 December 2015

Granville Skippers is an avid jazzoplogist. He hosts Just Jazz”” on Radio CCFM 107.5FM from 7-10pm. He also had a short stint hosting his own radio show on All Jazz Radio, a local online radio jazz station, http://www.alljazzradio.co.za/.

Granville is also a talented bassist and lists Victor Wooten as his favourite.

Skippers is currently involved in sound engineering at Desire of all Nations Church while working on a few projects of his own. He has a keen interest in the local  Jazz landscape and has often highlighted the talents of local musicians on his show “Just Jazz” on CCFM.

Engen Cycle in the City gears up for Cape Town

Engen Cycle in the City gears up for Cape Town

Saturday 07 November 2015. Cape Town Stadium Forecourt.

Engen Cycle in the City returns to the Mother City on Saturday, 7 November with a range of professional teams and social cyclists gearing up to tackle the fast 1.5km criterium circuit alongside Cape Town Stadium.

Although hugely popular in other parts of the world, criterium racing is a discipline that’s new to the South African cycling scene. It is widely considered vital to the development of youth riders in the sport.

Engen Cycle in the City has drawn entries from some of the most celebrated local professional riders, including Nolan Hoffman, the winner of the recent Engen Cycle in the City event in Durban, while still offering much fun to the less serious cyclist in the Crazy Cranks category.

The event is open to competitors from across the country. It will however double up as the Provincial Criterium Championships for the Western Cape, awarding a champion jersey to the first WCC rider in each of the racing categories.

Cyclists can register online at www.cycleevents.co.za. Entries range from R20 – R65 per person. The first few hundred entrants will receive a limited Engen Cycle in the City goodie pouch.

Due to its fast and fun nature, Engen Cycle in the City is spectator friendly offering a range of festival activities and attractions including food stalls, live music performances by Jimmy Nevis and Mi Casa, a kiddie’s carnival, and Danny MacAskill’s world famous Drop n’ Roll Show.

Though access to spectators and the village is free, each attendee requires an access ticket.  Visit Webtickets to secure your admittance now: www.webtickets.co.za

To view the full range of categories or information on how to enter visit www.engencycling.co.za

Danny MacAskill’s Drop and Roll Show live at Engen Cycle in the City

Danny MacAskill’s Drop and Roll Show live at Engen Cycle in the City

Fans of trial biking and extreme sport will be delighted to know that Engen are set to welcome Danny MacAskill’s Drop and Roll Tour to the Cape Town leg of Engen Cycle in the City.

Global superstar street trial biker MacAskill will head up a four-piece stunt team, which also includes Duncan Shaw, Fabio Wibmer, and Ali C, at the Cape Town Stadium forecourt on 7 November 2015.

The team of extreme trialists have left crowds around Europe in awe of their bike handling skills. They are looking forward to bringing their Drop and Roll Tour to the streets of the Mother City.

“We’re thrilled to be a part of the Engen Cycle in the City this year. It is the first time that the Drop and Roll Tour will perform out of Europe and we cannot wait to put on an amazing show for the fans in Cape Town, South Africa.” Commented Danny MacAskill.

A YouTube sensation, MacAskill’s death defying stunts have attracted millions of fans globally, and have led to two Laureus Sports Awards nominations. Fans can book their complimentary tickets to the Drop and Roll show at Engen Cycle in the City in Cape Town by visiting www.webtickets.co.za

Spectator entry to the Engen Cycle in the City is free of charge but limited. All complimentary tickets need to be booked via www.webtickets.co.za and presented on the day to guarantee admittance.

Participant entries are now open. For a full list of race categories and applicable entry fees, please visit www.engencycling.co.za.

Flying high at the 21st Cape Town International Kite Festival in Muizenberg

21st Cape Town International Kite Festival

Incredible kites will be dancing in the wind at the 21st Cape Town International Kite Festival (@CTKiteFest), happening in Muizenberg on 31st October and 1st November. Proudly hosted by Cape Mental Health, this is Africa’s biggest kite festival and fantastic family fun in support of a very good cause.

Kiters from four countries (Germany, Netherlands, South Africa and United Kingdom) will be showing off their colourful creations including a fantastic 30-metre worm and family of octopi designed by Cape Town kite-maker Ian Islip, a 77-metre Chinese dragon kite built especially for the festival by local kite-maker Philip Hattingh, and a patchwork kite comprising 1,600 pieces by Maarten van Hienen, Netherlands.

21st Cape Town International Kite Festival

The Longbottoms (UK) will be showing off their flying underpants once again and two-line kiter Steven Leonard (Durban) will be showing off his Revolution tricks, skills he perfected on a recent trip to the USA. Children from 30 primary and special schools will shine on Saturday 1 November in the Let’s Play EduKite Schools’ Competition. There are also free children’s kite-making workshops every day as well as simple colouring-in competitions for younger children.

Traditional Cape Swaeltjie kites will soar on Sunday 1 November during the Heritage Kite Competition. Any local, hand-made kites can be entered and there are cash prizes to be won. Master kite-maker Ebrahim Sambo (Athlone, Cape Town) will be teaching people how to make Swaeltjie kites at free workshops on both days.

He is passionate about sharing this historic kite-making technique that has been passed down through generations of the Sambo family. With workshops, competitions, craft and food stalls as well as kiddies’ rides and live entertainment, the festival is an affordable family outing that encourages mental well-being – family time, being active and outdoors.

Cape Town International Kite Festival.

All profits go directly to Cape Mental Health, South Africa’s oldest mental health organisation, which has been providing vital mental health services to adults and children in poorly-resourced communities in the Western Cape for 102 years. The Cape Town International Kite Festival happens on (and above) the lawns of Zandvlei Nature Reserve, Muizenberg (corner Axminster and The Row).

Open from 10:00 to 18:00 daily, the event offers lots of parking and easy access by train (False Bay or Muizenberg stations).

Entry is R30 (R10 for children 12 years and under). Tickets available online http://www.capementalhealth.co.za and at the gate.

For info go to http://www.capementalhealth.co.za, contact Cape Mental Health on 021 447 9040 / 082 897 8173, info@cmh.org.za or follow them on Twitter and Facebook @CTKiteFest.

Diary Insert What: Cape Town International Kite Festival

Where: Zandvlei Nature Reserve, corner Axminster and The Row, Muizenberg

When: 10am to 6pm, 31 October and 1 November 2015 Cost: R30 / R10 (12 years and under)

Contact person: Greg Damster Contact details: 021 447 9040 / 082 897 8173 /

info@cmh.org.za Web: http://www.capementalhealth.co.za Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/CTKiteFest URLS http://www.capementalhealth.co.za http://www.facebook.com/CTKiteFest Twitter: @CTKiteFest Instagram: @CTKiteFest #CTKiteFest

International Kiters • Bernd Halbeck (Germany) • Peter Hulcoop (United Kingdom) • Karl and Sara Longbottom (United Kingdom) • Jacqui Mountjoy (United Kingdom) • Maarten & Tjitske van Hienen (Netherlands) • Martin & Inge Völker (Germany) South African Kiters • Peter & Xavier Binsbergen (Port Elizabeth) • John Erasmus (Durban) • Jacques Fourie & Danielle Mulder (Pretoria) • Mike Goldblatt (Cape Town) • Philip Hattingh (Kommetjie, Cape Town) • Ian & Jenny Islip (Parow, Cape Town) • Steven Leonard (Durban) • Keith Mould (Sedgefield) • Greg Mountjoy (Sedgefield) • Ebrahim Sambo (Athlone, Cape Town) • Brian & Beryl Skinner (Tableview, Cape Town) • Ashley & Mari Ware-Lane (Brackenfell, Cape Town)

About Cape Mental Health Cape Mental Health provides innovative and effective mental health services to people in poorly resourced communities in the Western Cape.

This non-profit organisation has been active for 102 years and continues to work towards a society where people with intellectual and psychiatric disabilities are included in community life and have access to education, training, work and social opportunities. For more information call 021 447 9040, email info@cmh.org.za or visit http://www.capementalhealth.co.za

FRESHLYGROUND KICKS OFF ELGIN’S HOPE@PAULCLUVER SUMMER CONCERTS

Freshlyground

Elgin’s very own forest amphitheatre at Paul Cluver Wines is gearing up to launch its first gig for the Hope@PaulCluver season. The beloved South African band Freshlyground will be the opening concert beneath the stars on Saturday, 14 November 2015.

Also supporting Freshlygound is singer Paige Mac (from Studio 7) as well as Zion Zuke (from Africa Voices Trust). Hope@PaulCluver has partnered with Africa Voices Trust and the Rural Arts Network to include more local and undiscovered talent. The marimba talents of the local De Rust School (via Rural Arts Network) and the voices of the ladies at ThembaCare Grabouw Hospice will form part of the programme on 14 November.

Paul Cluver Wine Estate Amphitheatre

Set in a cluster of towering Eucalyptus trees, the intimate venue is ideal for friends and families to bring along cushions and blankets and settle into the unreserved seating – where everyone in the audience will find themselves up close with the action.

Patrons can bring their own picnics or purchase food at the event. Food vendors include For the Love of Food’s truck, pizza from Ishushu and a sushi bar. Ticket holders are not permitted to bring in their own drinks but wine will be available from the host venue, Paul Cluver, along with their signature Cluver Jack cider, craft beer from Triggerfish Brewery, various soft drinks and coffee from Seattle Coffee.

The ticket price is R250 per person (available on Computicket) and the gates will open at 5pm. The main act performs at 7pm. Patrons wanting to stay in the area can contact Elgin Valley Tourism – 021 848 9838 to explore accommodation options. For group transport solutions call Gaffley’s on 021 859 2561.

The next concert after Freshlyground will be Bobby van Jaarsveld on 12 December. The season’s full programme is available on www.hope.org.za

 

ABOUT THEMBALITSHA

Thembalitsha is the beneficiary of all profits made from the Hope@PaulCluver concerts. The Elgin Valley is an area of extreme need. 40% of households live below the poverty line on less than R2000 a month. With a massive migrant population due to the seasonal nature of farm employment, the valley struggles to cope with the social and medical issues that arise from the poverty and the large-scale informal settlements that have rapidly developed.

Thembalitsha’s mission is to provide hope by developing disadvantaged people to a point of self-reliance through the provision of healthcare, education and training. They invest in communities throughout the Cape and currently manage nine projects, three of which operate within the Elgin Valley and respond specifically to the essential needs of the area:

• ThembaCare Grabouw serves as the only overnight 24-hour hospice facility in a town of 65,000. This seven-bed hospice is designed to provide quality palliative care for those who are terminally ill and whose lives have been devastated by HIV/AIDS, TB and cancer. They also have a large team of home-based carers who make weekly visits to more than 350 people living with HIV, TB and other chronic illnesses in the townships of Grabouw as well as offering free counselling and testing to the community.

• The Village of Hope provides a safe and loving home for children infected or affected by HIV/AIDS or TB on a farm in the rural town of Grabouw, South Africa. The twelve-bed Children’s Unit has served as a haven for dozens of children over the last six years – some for very short periods of time and others for several years.

• EduCare Grabouw is Thembalitsha’s new Early Childhood Development (ECD) project in Grabouw. This exciting initiative contributes to meeting a critical community need: essential ECD centres for children who otherwise would not receive adequate training and education. Through a network of renovated or newly built EduCare facilities, hundreds of children under the age of five and their teachers will receive quality training.

Until recently the area had a known HIV infection rate of 35% but thanks to the hard work of Thembalitsha and other organisations working in the community this rate has been greatly reduced.

ABOUT THE PAUL CLUVER ESTATE

The Paul Cluver Estate is a family-owned, family-operated wine estate also based in the Elgin Valley. The family has owned the property since 1896, and are recognised as pioneers of wine in the area. They focus on producing elegant wines that are expressive of the territory that have earned them numerous awards locally and internationally.

Are you ready for Open Streets Bellville this Sunday?

In only two days, part of Voortrekker Road and Kruskal Avenue become Open Streets. Jump on the train, a minibus taxi, a bicycle or a skateboard and come play with us in Bellville on 4 October 2015.

And while you are marking your calendar, make sure to keep the upcoming Open Streets Days in mind: on 8th November, we go back to Langa to power the Red Bull Amaphiko Social Innovation Festival; in January 2016 we go back to Bree Street and in April we bring Open Streets to Mitchells Plain for the first time. Stay tuned for details.

What is Open Streets Bellville?
Open Streets Cape Town has partnered with the Greater Tygerberg Partnership, an economic area partnership between civil society and the public and private sectors helping create a vibrant, thriving, desirable and value-adding economically prosperous area, to bring Open Streets Bellville to the Northern Suburbs for the very first time.

Many thanks to our amazing team of volunteers and all the activity organisers. A special thanks to Vodacom for bringing some old school games for everyone to enjoy on the street. Look out for their spot!

Here is what you need to know about the day.
October is Transport Month in South Africa and Open Streets is the perfect excuse to use our city’s public transport. If you are not cycling or taking a minibus taxi, jump on the train with us.

Train together from the City
The train for Open Streets Bellville departs at 9:20am. Please meet us at Cape Town Central at 9am with ticket in hand. We will gather  at the Metrorail/Tourism Kiosk and board together.

Further transport info: http://openstreets.co.za/news/getting-open-streets-bellville-transport-information

The Cape Cobras will be launching their new season on the streets of Bellville, bowling and batting on the middle of Voortrekker Road.

Players such as Vernon Philander, Omphile Ramela and Wayne Parnell are looking forward to taking their game to the streets for a chance to share their passion with Capetonians, especially the kids.

Catch them on the tarmac from 10:30 onwards.

Imagine taking an early morning jog through Voortrekker Road and Kruskal Avenue, with no cars to contend with.

The volunteers from Bellville Parkrun have organised a fun run starting at 9am on Sunday morning for anyone and everyone.

Runners will convene at the corner of Vlei and Voortrekker Roads, and follow a 5km route through the Bellville CBD – a once off opportunity to run through the city.

More information about the run: https://www.facebook.com/events/1657714317776670/

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! 
We are still looking for some brilliant people to roll up their sleeves and be part of making the day run smoothly. As a bonus you get a free Open Streets t-shirt!

If you are one of these people please: info@openstreets.co.za.

Here is the “map of happiness” which shows all of the confirmed activities for the day. As usual…expect to be surprised by other spontaneous activities; even better, bring your own!

Getting into the groove with the Cape Town Fringe

A new space, created especially with the audience experience in mind, means that this year’s Cape Town Fringe-goer will be treated to an up-close experience.

Getting into the groove with the Cape Town Fringe – Hatchetman

‘Music on the Cape Town Fringe has grown up a little since last year,’ says Fringe CEO Tony Lankester. ‘We recognise that the secret to a great Fringe production is intimacy, so we’ve reconceptualised the staging of our music acts in partnership with Standard Bank.’

The Standard Bank Studio in City Hall will be a dedicated music venue that will see the audience sitting on the stage with the artists, ‘creating a beautiful, personal experience and plenty of magic moments’, promises Lankester.

Artists lined up for the Standard Bank Studio include two of this year’s Standard Bank Ovation Award winners, jazz singer extraordinaire Asanda Msiqi and acoustic trio Hatchetman. Other fresh talent includes Sotho a capella duoAcatear and acoustic soul singers Blaqseed.

Simba-Morri

Don’t miss a star turn by Chris Letcher and the Festival’s lawyer-turned-singer, Matthew van der Want. This rare, once-off performance by two of South Africa’s best singer-songwriters will be held at the Standard Bank Studio on 25 September.

Lankester says the Fringe will also be paying tribute to the iconic James Phillips, who died after a car accident in 1995, shortly after the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown. ‘This year is the 20^th anniversary of his death,’ Lankester says. ‘Phillips and his alter ego Bernoldus Niemand will forever be associated with the Voëlvry tour so when we heard that Shifty Records were planning a tribute concert at Spier, we knew we had to be part of it and do what we can to support the event.’

The Voëlvry Heritage Festival will be held on Heritage Day 24 September at Spier Amphitheatre in Stellenbosch. Artists include Francois van Coke, Valiant Swart, The Kerels, Matthew van der Want, Chris Letcher and the Gereformeerde Blues Band.

Music on offer at #CTFringe includes:

Acatear – Sharpville Boyz Are Doing It: Sipho Hlanguza and Rebaballetswe Selematseola blend Sotho songs and a capella to create a memorable sound. www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/acatears-sharpeville-boyz-are-doing-it

Adam Small Bejazzed: A musical tribute to poet Adam Small, featuring Natalia da Rocha. [City Hall 4] Seewww.capetownfringe.co.za/events/adam-small-bejazzed/

Blaqseed Watering the Seeds: Acoustic soul-stirring sounds from guitarist Gabriel Chauke, vocalist Lesego Moerane and rapper/MC Karabo Mokoena. Standard Bank Ovation Award Winners. [Standard Bank Studio at City Hall] Seewww.capetownfringe.co.za/events/blaqseed-watering-the-seeds

Egoli: A musical theatre production of a young rural woman’s search for her husband, missing in the big, fast and dangerous city. All grades. [City Hall 3] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/egoli/

Gug’Othandayo The Musical: ‘Getting old is a choice’. Fifty gogos of Emalahleni bring their personal stories to the stage through song and storytelling. [Standard Bank Studio at City Hall] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/gugothandayo-the-musical-2

Hatchetman:  Jono Tait, Nick Catto and Matt Catto wrap their remarkable blend of three-part harmony around an intoxicating brew of original songs. Standard Bank Ovation Award Winner 2015. [Standard Bank Studio at City Hall]See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/hatchetman

ĦREJJEF ‘Maltese Folktales’: Traditional folk tales told by a narrator accompanied by a grand piano, shadow puppetry and digital animation. [Galloway Theatre] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/hrejjef-maltese-folktales/

Jamie MacDowell & Tom Thum: This live show is a blend of carefully arranged and well-rehearsed music, punctuated by interactions highlighting just how talented this Australian duo is. [Fugard Studio] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/tom-thum-jamie-macdowell/

Jazz with Asanda Mqiki: Asanda brings her unique style to the stage, combining her original songs with new arrangements of old favourites. Standard Bank Ovation Award Winner. [Standard Bank Studio at City Hall] Seewww.capetownfringe.co.za/events/jazz-with-asanda-mqiki

 Michael Lowman: Guitarist Michael Lowman opened the MTV African Music Awards last year. Now you can catch him on stage in Cape Town. [Standard Bank Studio at City Hall] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/michael-lowman

 Morayks: Singer-songwriter Morayks is a 2014 SATMA award winner, fuses modern African jazz with a touch of the old, making it impossible for audiences to stay on their seats. [Standard Bank Studio at City Hall] Seewww.capetownfringe.co.za/events/morayks

 Pansa Unplugged – Collaborations: Bringing together new emerging talent with well-known artists for first-time collaborations. No two performances will be the same. [Pansa Studio, 3B Beach Road] Seewww.capetownfringe.co.za/events/pansa-unplugged-collaboration

Shifty Heritage Voëlvry Festival: Gereformeerde Blues Band, Francois van Coke, Valiant Swart, The Kerels, Matthew van der Want, Chris Letcher, and other special guests pay tribute to our past – and musicians James Phillips and Johannes Kerkorrel. [Spier Amphitheatre, Stellenbosch. Gates open 11.30am] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/shifty-heritage-voelvry-festival

 Simba Morri: An eclectic and refreshing mix of cross rhythms and fusion of African and World music. [Standard Bank Studio at City Hall] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/simba-morri

 Sweet Sounds of Maya Spector: Jazz singer Maya Spector will present a tempting mix of jazz standards and contemporary favourites. [Standard Bank Studio at City Hall and the Guga S’Thebe Art Centre] Seewww.capetownfringe.co.za/events/sweet-sounds-of-maya-spector-2

 Tumi Thusi: South Africa’s voice! Tumi fuses with soul and RnB with elements of fun and Afropop. [Standard Bank Studio at City Hall] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/tumi-thusi

 Van Der Want and Letcher: Two of SA’s best singer-songwriters. One night only! [Standard Bank Studio at City Hall] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/van-der-want-letcher

About the Cape Town Fringe

• The Cape Town Fringe runs for 11 days, from 24 September to 4 October.
• There are 70 productions to choose from, with more than 60% of the artists hailing from the Western Cape.
• Shows will be held at various venues in the city centre (City Hall, Alexander Bar, the Fugard), at the V&A Waterfront (the Amphitheatre, Jubilee Hall at the Watershed, and the Waterfront Theatre School’s Galloway Theatre) and Langa (Gugu S’thebe Cultural Centre). The Shifty Heritage Voëlvry Festival will be held at Spier, outside Stellenbosch.
• All performances scheduled on 4 October – the last Sunday of the Cape Town Fringe – will be sold at 50%.
• Produced by the experienced team at the National Arts Festival.
• With grateful thanks to our host sponsor, the City of Cape Town, and Standard Bank, the presenting sponsor. Additional support from Exclusive Books and the V&A Waterfront.
• Printed copies of the Cape Town Fringe 2015 programme can be found at selected branches of Exclusive Books and Standard Bank in Cape Town, as well as at selected Cape Town Tourism outlets, City of Cape Town offices and coffee shops and cafes around the city.
• Download a PDF of the programme via the website: www.capetownfringe.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/CTFprogramme.pdf
• For more info, bookings and secure ticket sales, visit www.capetownfringe.co.za
• Box Office Call Centre: 0860 002 004 | Cape Town Fringe Hotline: 060 882 8316

Cape Town Fringe: a spark to set children’s imaginations alight

Family-friendly fare is part of the programme on offer at this year’s Cape Town Fringe arts festival and ranges from the deliciously absurd to the elegantly exquisite

The City Hall in Cape Town decked in Fringe Festival banners pic-by-Jesse-Kramer

MAGICAL productions aimed at igniting children’s imaginations are on the programme of this year’s Cape Town Fringe arts festival, which runs from 24 September to 4 October.

Motivated by a desire to develop new audiences, this year’s Fringe programme has been carefully crafted to appeal to broader and younger audiences than those that traditionally frequent theatres.

‘Fringe festivals give us the impetus to engage the arts to heal ourselves from our past, to unravel truths about our current challenges, to envision hope for the future and to sometimes just temporarily escape into oblivion,’ Ismail Mahomed, the Fringe’s artistic director, writes in his introduction to the 2015 programme.

Most of the 71 productions on the programme this year are suitable for younger audiences, ranging from the delicate and enchanting What Goes UP…, which targets three- to seven-year-olds, through to school set works such as the adaption of Athol Fugard’s People are Living There, to the edgier Blood Orange, which tells the story of a young boy growing up in apartheid South Africa.

‘If we want children and young people to play a pro-active and positive role in our society, we need to engage their curiosity, their imaginations and their hearts from as early an age as possible,’ says Yvette Hardie, director of ASSITEJ SA, the International Association of Theatre for Children and Young People. ‘Theatre can speak to them in ways other media cannot – through a live exchange of energy that challenges their attention and demands them to be present.’

Hardie has challenged theatregoers in Cape Town to share their Fringe experience with a child: ‘Every child needs access to the theatre – regardless of their circumstances,’ she says. ‘ASSITEJ SA challenges everyone with the means to take a child to the theatre.’

ASSITEJ has curated six productions to form the Family Fare platform at the Fringe this year. ‘Our programme is about celebrating diversity and will appeal to audiences of a primary school age,’ Hardie says. Family Fare productions include: How Stories Began, Warrior on Wheels, Incredible Journey, Maltese Folktales, Ngumzimba Wam, and What Goes UP…, NguMzimba Wam, which tells the stories of three young children facing difficult circumstances, and the inventive Waterline, a story of a young man’s search for water, are just two of a number of productions that use puppets and masks to help weave their spell.

ĦREJJEF Maltese Folktales, a mystical show from Malta, also blends storytelling with shadow puppets, music and digital animation.

Another unmissable international collaboration is Australian duo Jamie MacDowell & Tom Thum. These two outstanding musicians redefine musical parameters through their unique combination of Jamie’s heartfelt song writing and Tom’s heavy-hitting, world-class beatboxing.

Architecture students from Germany, South Africa, and the United States joined forces with the local community to build a new venue for performing arts in Langa last year.

Opportunities for schools

• The Cape Town Fringe Day Out: Specially designed for groups of learners from Grade 7 to 11, this package offers schools a full-day experience at the Cape Town Fringe. Incorporating two workshops, two performances, lunch and cold drinks, learners will leave the City Hall hub inspired, invigorated and entertained. The price varies, depending on the productions and workshops that are included in the package, but will be around R6 000 for 15 learners, including transport to and from the City Hall. We are also partnering with sponsors to offer the package to schools that are unable to afford the fee – so contact us if you’re keen to involve your learners – or if you’d like to sponsor a group to attend: boxoffice@capetownfringe.co.za

• Package discounts – Full House: These packages have been specially selected for schools and community groups to use as fundraisers. You receive 50% discount on the normal full price if you purchase all the tickets in the venue for a particular show. You can then sell these tickets at the full price (or a price you determine), and your school or organisation benefits from the difference. Dates and times for these performances will be arranged to your preferences pending venue and artists’ availability. To book a Full House performance, please contact the Box Office Manager on boxoffice@capetownfringe.co.za.

A selection of family-friendly shows

Adam Small Bejazzed (Musical theatre): A musical tribute to poet Adam Small, featuring Natalia da Rocha. [Applauz Arts Initiative] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/adam-small-bejazzed/

Being Norm (English)/Jan Alleman (Afrikaans): The unforgettable Richard Antrobus presents a day in the extraordinarily ordinary life of Norm/Jan. Grades 4 to 12. [Oddbody Theatre] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/being-norm/

Blood Orange (Theatre): The story of Gecko, a boy who has an oblique way of seeing the world. From the novel by Troy Blacklaws. Grades 4 to 12. [Untouchable Productions/Craig Morris] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/blood-orange/

District 6 to Paris (Physical theatre): Mime extraordinaire John Jacobs returns to Cape Town after 20 years in Paris to bring short stories that are sure to touch everyone. [Mime Theatre Productions] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/district-6-to-paris/

Ella’s Horses (Theatre): True and poignant story of horse whisperer Ella Gordon. Winner of a Standard Bank Ovation Award. Grades 8 to 12 [Charles J Fourie Productions] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/ellas-horses/

Egoli (Theatre): A musical theatre production of a young rural woman’s search for her husband, missing in the big, fast and dangerous city. All grades. [Poppiehuis, presented by the Baxter Theatre] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/egoli/

ĦREJJEF ‘Maltese Folktales’ (Musical theatre, Puppetry and Animation): Traditional folk tales told by a narrator accompanied by a grand piano, shadow puppetry and digital animation. [Soundscapes/ASSITEJ] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/hrejjef-maltese-folktales/

Last Cow Standing (Comedy drama): Epic comedic fantasy about a young boy chosen to save the dying herds of his people. All grades. [Nu-Breed Theatre Company] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/last-cow-standing/

How Stories Began (Theatre): Set in ancient times on the Wild Coast, Manzandaba and Zenzele go on an adventure in search of stories. Wonderful insight into how local heritage lives today. Presented in English and isiXhosa. Ages 4 and up. [Jungle Theatre Company, presented by ASSITEJ] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/how-stories-began/

Magic Through the Ages (Illusion): From ancient Egypt all the way to the latest TV magic specials, explore the rich history of magic with Brendon Peel. All grades. [Brendon Peel] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/magic-through-the-ages

Mooi Street Moves (Theatre): A modern South African classic by Paul Slabolepszy. Grades 4 to 12. [Nompumelelo Mtshali] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/mooi-street-moves/

NguMzimba Wam (Puppetry): ‘I am a hero and this is my body, when someone else touches it I say NO.’ Three children are faced with tough challenges when they go home after school. All ages. [Art of Hearts/ASSITEJ] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/ngumzimba-wam/

On and On (Dance): An opportunity to see athletic and inspiring dance performed by Cape Junior Ballet Company’s talented dancers. High school. [Cape Junior Ballet Company] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/on-and-on/

People Are Living There (Theatre): Adapted from Athol Fugard’s well-known play. (Hungry Minds Theatre Collective] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/people-are-living-there/

Rooivalk (Teater): Rooivalk word groot op ‘n plaas in Limpopo, tussen heinings wat lank voor sy geboorte al vir hom gespan is. Met Fiësta Fleur du Cap- en Kanna wenner Richard September. Afrikaans met Engels. Hoërskool. [Nico Scheepers] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/rooivalk/

Sleight of Mouth 2 – Now Talk Your Way Out of This! (Illusion/ comedy): Marcel Oudejans presents a brand-new mix of surprises, illusions and laughter. Grades 4 to 12. [Marcel Oudejans] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/sleight-of-mouth-2

The Incredible Journey (Theatre): Once upon a time, a boy named Tommy was presented by a challenge from the new kid at school… Written by Tara Notcutt and Stefan Erasmus. Winner of a Standard Bank Ovation. Ages 10 and up. [KB Theatre Productions/ASSITEJ] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/the-incredible-journey/

Tom Thum and Jamie MacDowell (Music): This live show is a blend of carefully arranged and well-rehearsed music, punctuated by interactions highlighting just how talented this Australian duo is. All ages. [Theatreland Productions] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/tom-thum-jamie-macdowell/

Warrior on Wheels (Theatre): This fantastical tale of a disabled boy is told through the use of puppetry, physical animation and vibrant storytelling. Directed by Jayne Batzofin and produced by the Chaeli Campaign. Ages 7 and up. [The Chaeli Campaign/ASSITEJ] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/warrior-on-wheels/

Waterline (Theatre): A new mask work by Rob Murray (Crazy in Love), Waterline is comic and thought-provoking look at what happens when a town’s taps run dry. Winner of a Standard Bank Ovation Award. Ages 10+. Accessible to all languages. [Uyabona Ke] See www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/waterline/

What Goes UP… (Theatre): Playful, gentle and explorative production devised to capture the imagination of young children. Ages 3 to 7 (with sign language). [FTH:K/ASSITEJ] See https://www.capetownfringe.co.za/events/what-goes-up/

Says the City of Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Tourism, Events and Economic Development, Councillor Garreth Bloor. ‘The City of Cape Town is a proud sponsor of the Fringe Festival which attracts local and international participants and supporters. The Fringe has helped Cape Town earn the enviable reputation of an events destination of choice. Moreover, this event is part of the City’s commitment to secure events during low season to address the challenges of seasonality and boost visitor numbers. The festival builds on the City’s reputation as a year-round cultural tourism destination.’

Issues of Fracking Disclosed at Iziko

Issues of Fracking Disclosed at Iziko 

Iziko South African Museum, from 29 August 2015 until 15 November 2015.

Karoo Disclosure, a collaborative art installation that investigates the highly contentious issue of fracking, opens at the Iziko South African Museum on Saturday, 29 August 2015. The exhibition explores notions of heritage, culture, ownership, and legitimacy in the context of external economic and political drivers that threaten to change the landscape and the lives of communities in unforeseen ways.

“The Karoo has always been a feature of the exhibitions in the Iziko South African Museums, the Quagga foal on display perhaps being the most symbolic representation of fragility of this region. Iziko encourages exhibitions like Karoo Disclosure that stimulate debate about important issues,“says Hamish Robertson, Director Natural History Collections at Iziko Museums of South Africa.

The exhibition comes at a pivotal time in South Africa’s history when national government has given the green light for fracking prospecting to begin in the Karoo with the explicit intention to exploit its reserves. The opening of Karoo Disclosure will feature a discussion panel on the issue of fracking led by experts in Anthropology, Climate-Change, Art and Natural Science including: World Wildlife Fund (WWF) energy expert, Saliem Fakir; UCT Anthropology Professor Lesley Green; UCT Art Professor Virginnia MacKenny, Curator of Karoo Palaeontology at Iziko, Roger Smith and Art theorist, Andrew Lamprecht.

Karoo Disclosure is an example of “how artists tackle issues of the environment in their practice with a particular emphasis on care for the land ” says Professor Virginia MacKenny who will be exploring environmental concerns in artists’ work in her presentation.

“In the United States, fracking has brought to a head questions about the reliability of scientific evidence in the knowledge economy. The spectre of permanent damage to Earth systems in a time of climate change, forces us to confront the myth that we can repair the planetary damage we wreak in the name of economic progress. It is neither reasonable nor rational to claim that “better engineering” or “better environmental regulation” can be relied upon to minimise the effects of permanent damage to land, and to fossil water sources”, states speaker and Anthropologist Prof Lesley Green, who will expand on her recent papers.

Speaker and Energy Scientist at WWF, Saliem Fakir’s recent research report looks into, “The question we have to ask is; do we really need fracking and even if we frack, is there a good relation between energy security, access and jobs?”

The film, Karoo Disclosure, which was selected for the Karoo Indy Film Festival and shown at That Art Fair, is the focal point of the exhibition. Photographic works as well as objects, artefacts, rocks, fossils, animals and insects from the Iziko Natural History Collections found in the Karoo area will also be showcased. The exhibition is on display at the Iziko South African Museum until  Sunday, 15 November 2015.

The collaborating artists include: Deborah Weber, Damien Schumann, Elgin Rust, Gina Waldman, Margaret Stone, Maxim Starcke, Lisa Bauer, Michelle Liao, Tom Glenn, Peet van Heerden, Hendrik Dudumashe and Paula Kingwill

The work has been funded by: The National Arts Council and The Arts and Culture Trust, Nedbank Arts Affinity.
Partners include: PhotoHire, Sinamatella, Doornberg Farm and PrintArt.

For more information, please visit www.iziko.org.za or follow @KarooDisclosure on Twitter and like KarooDisclosure on Facebook.

About Iziko Museums of South Africa (Iziko)

Iziko operates 11 national museums, the Planetarium, the Social History Centre and three collection‑specific libraries in Cape Town.  The museums that make up Iziko have their own history and character, presenting extensive art, social and natural history collections that reflect our diverse African heritage.  Iziko is a public entity and non-profit organisation that brings together these museums under a single governance and leadership structure.  The organisation allows *free access to all individuals on commemorative days, (*excluding the Castle of Good Hope and Planetarium). Visit our webpage at www.iziko.org.za, join our online community on Facebook (www.facebook.com/IzikoMuseums) or follow us on Twitter (@Iziko_Museums) for regular updates on events, news and new exhibitions.

About Karoo Disclosure Collective

The Karoo Disclosure Collective is a South African Art collaboration group established in 2014 that brings together; performers, videographers, composers, musicians, jewellery designers and visual artists who work together collaboratively on specific projects. Karoo Disclosure is their first project, with Justice Disclosure set for showing in December 2015.