The Mandela Bay Arts Festival is back! First held in September 2022, the 10 day showcase of the arts returns to Nelson Mandela Bay from 16-25 February 2024. The festival is a project of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality in partnership with the National Arts Festival.
The programme was announced today and went live for booking online at the Festival website www.mbaf.co.za . Tickets can be booked and paid for directly on the website and need not be printed as they are generated digitally and can be presented on a phone. Physical box offices will be open during the Festival.
Focusing on the depth and breadth of local talent in the region, the Festival is located in various venues in the city. Says Artistic Committee Facilitator Rucera Seethal, “From music to dance, theatre to fashion, poetry to visual arts, this festival shines a spotlight on the stories, sounds and traditions that are located in the artists’ hometown. Although the shows are accessible to audiences from anywhere – and our hope is that international visitors will include us on their itineraries – many of the shows have special relevance for audiences from the Bay. The programme features both industry veterans, established and emerging artists which creates a rich and robust experience of an evolving cultural space”.
Executive Mayor Gary van Niekerk said the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality supports the important contribution of creatives in the city who bring both cultural and social value as well as economic value to the city, “Creativity is core to Nelson Mandela Bay’s spirit, its part of what defines us and our talented artists should be seen and supported. There are wonderful shows for all on the programme and ticket prices are easy on the budget. We hope to see the residents and visitors to our city in the theatres and exhibition halls this February.”
The Mandela Bay Arts Festival forms part of an exciting summer season of events for Nelson Mandela Bay as tourism numbers bounce back post-COVID, the onus on the summer is to have fun but also to keep safe.
ABOUT THE PROGRAMME:
A R2 or So – Theatre BYS: A tragicomedy that tells the stories of those who beg on the streets, as they “laugh to keep from crying” and persevere beyond the harsh conditions of their predicament. 16, 18 & 21 February at the Atheneum Studio Theatre
Songo Presents – Iculo lakhe (eMini nasebusuku): Songo goes beyond what her audiences are familiar with to express the range and versatility of her artistry, working with fellow local artists to create a globally representative sound. 17 February at Mendi Arts Centre; 23 February at the Black Box Theatre
Actors Masterclass – Creative Workshop by Zen Pictures: Calling all aspirant film and television fans, join this session with Zandile Msutwana for actors and directors on text, script analysis, character building, characterisation, voice training and delivery, performing for camera, shot angles and sizes. 20 February at Mendi Arts Centre.
African Inspired Threads – Elevate Your Everyday with Fashion by Nonzwakazi Mndai / Ndim Hle: An immersive fashion exhibition celebrating the fusion of tradition and modernity within African fashion and textiles. Venue and dates to be announced
Amabali Akhayo – Poetry, Dance by Amabali Akhayo: A story-telling production with gentle lessons on growing up ‘different’ within set norms. Using acting, dance, poetry and story, this interactive production is perfect for children of foundation phase age and up. 21 & 22 February at the Atheneum Little Theatre
Amathambo Ayashukuma – Theatre by Mashugu Productions: A theatre piece exploring the aftermath of the SS Mendi sinking in 1917, focusing on the families left behind and their quest to reconnect with them by resuscitating their bones. This piece weaves a poignant tale of love, loss, and resilience. Dates to be announced, Mendi Arts Centre
Amavukane Bhaca Dancers – Dance by Amavukane Bhaca Dancers: Thirteen young dancers (some as young as six years old) bring their contagious spirit to traditional culture. Experience dance from the Bhaca culture and a group that has travelled South Africa. 23 & 25 February at Mendi Arts Centre
Case Closed – Theatre by Ele Coetzee: Set against a backdrop of a mounting unsolved cases, theatre piece Case Closed weaves through love and true crime as it follows the story of its three young characters. Please note this show is for adult audiences only. 16, 17 & 22 February at the Atheneum Studio Theatre.
Double Bluff: An Extreme Magic Show – Illusion by Brendon Peel Entertainment: The daring duo of magicians Brendon Peel and Li Lau are back with a new extreme show that is coming to Gqeberha for the very first time. Take the whole family, its guaranteed to leave your jaw on the floor. 17 & 18 February at the Atheneum Studio Theatre; 21, 23 & 24 February at the The Savoy Theatre
Embizeni – Theatre by Nkala Creatives Productions: The tragedy of the deep damage that apartheid caused is laid bare in this story of loss, unfulfilled dreams and broken relationships. The play asks us to have more regard for the hard won freedom of our country and the legacy of those that fought for it. 17, 23 & 24 February at the Atheneum Studio Theatre
Happy Hour: Season 2 – Comedy Stand Up Mbu: Mbulelo Msongelwa’s Stand-Up People Culture is back with an entertaining new edition. Happy Hour Season 2 sees local stand up talent (and a DJ) in a not-to-be- missed comedy collab across stages in Nelson Mandela Bay. 16, 17, 23 & 24 February at the Black Box Theatre
Heartbeat of Africa – Dance by Defying Gravity Productions: United by love and passion for dance, Heartbeat of Africa blends the diverse influences of South Africa. An energetic whirl of various dance styles from hip hop to contemporary, marimbas and steel band, this high energy show is a feel good outing for the whole family. 23 & 24 February at the The Savoy Theatre
Ibali Lam – Beauty for Ashes Music by Thando Nombewu: A transformative musical production by the ethereal artist LoveSeed chronicles her journey from adversity to triumph, narrated through the medium of music, poetry, and dance. 17 February at the Black Box Theatre; 24 February at Mendi Arts Centre
Keep smiling, Keep shining – Visual Art by Khaya’s Fabric Collage: Khaya Ngcangca presents an exhibition of sixteen fabric collage portraits to bring inspiration, hope and joy to those who visit the Festival. During the exhibition he will also be making work on site. Dates and venue to be announced.
Live Music Entertainment by Mickey Pillay of Urban Touch: Six member band, Urban Touch, brings warm ’60s and ’70s nostalgia and the sounds of Reggae, R&B, contemporary hits and Soft Jazz to the stage. With plenty of well-known songs to sing along and dance to it’s a feel good concert for all. 17 & 23 February at the Atheneum Little Theatre
Mahesh Narotam and Friends – Music by Mahesh Narotam and Friends: Featuring original compositions by Mahesh Narotam, expect the perfect blend of fusion music with a diverse group of musicians much loved by audiences of the Bay. 18 & 23 February at the Atheneum Little Theatre
Mandela Bay Arts Business Workshop – Creative Workshop Future Star Entertainment: An empowering workshop that provides skills for professional brand management and success in the industry. Objectives include knowledge transfer, economic growth, employment creation, and sector development through partnerships and grant application support. 19 February at Mendi Arts Centre
Meeting of the Pigs – Theatre by Simphiwe Vikilahle: A ticking time bomb, this play unfolds in Alice, a small town in South Africa. The story unfolds in the surrounding farms where a loader removes the bushes and the dangerous animals are exposed. 17, 24 & 25 February at Mendi Arts Centre
Ndim Ingoma – Music by Sibulele Bokwana: A unique isiXhosa musical experience combining the traditions of African folk music with modern electronic beats. Soulful, energetic, and hypnotic, Sibu G invites the audience to connect and heal. 18 & 23 February at The One Room Music & Comedy Club
Nobenguni Rises – Poetry by Thobeka Kenene: With an African harp and keyboard as accompaniments, Thobeka Kenene’s creative work raises awareness about black consciousness and feminism through poetry. Kenene represents Motherwell at the MBAF and hopes to inspire communities to find positive ways to overcome their challenges. 17 & 24 February at the Atheneum Little Theatre
Phelo Bala Uncovered – Music by Phelo Bala: From the church choir of his childhood to the grandest of stages, Phelo Bala has enjoyed an extraordinary musical journey. This concert is a first-hand experience of Bala’s musical genius. 16 & 18 February at Mendi Arts Centre
Reggae Rise, Africa Rise – Music by Afrotronixx Entertainment: A celebration of unity.. As we dance to the rhythms of reggae and African music, we are reminded of the strength that comes from embracing our differences and celebrating our shared humanity. 17 & 22 February at Mendi Arts Centre
Singqokwana’s Dream Deferred – Theatre by Xolani Ngesi: Based on the true story of Mr Singqokwana Ernest Malgas whose tearful testimony of torture endured in detention left the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, and the nation, deeply moved. This play asks us not to forget what our people struggled for. 22 & 24 February at the Atheneum Studio Theatre.
Sista Kwalo and the Band – Poetry by Noluvuyo Mpumela: Fusing isiXhosa indigenous sound and jazz with poetry, Sista Kwalo’s words come to life in this collaborative piece. 21 & 24 February at Mendi Arts Centre
The Gathering of Tribes – Music by Edgar Muzah: This exhilarating musical concert performance, led by the versatile musician Edgar Muzah, merges the performances of talented actors and the evocative poetic expressions of renowned wordsmiths with a range of musical expressions. 18 February at Mendi Arts Centre; 22 February at Black Box Theatre
The Lovers Circle – Music by Ndumiso Ntantiso: Reflecting on the Month of Love, the musical artist known as Skyscraper will be presenting a show about love and entertainment, an opportunity for people to gather and celebrate themselves and their loved ones. 16 & 22 February at The One Room Music & Comedy Club
The New Dawn Store – Theatre by Patric Sbusiso Bhakaqana: A gripping protest play set in South Africa during the historical forced removals. This play shines a spotlight on the persistent systemic challenges faced by marginalised communities and the importance of collective action in seeking social change. 21, 23 & 24 February at Atheneum Studio Theatre
The Story of Fire – Dance by Selah Joy: The Story of Fire is an enchanting fire-theatre show that will have you and your family mesmerized. Selah weaves dance, flames, storytelling and music into an unforgettable performance that is accessible for all ages to enjoy. 16, 17, 18 & 21 February at the Atheneum Outdoor
Ukunyangwa Kwetyala – Visual Art by Vuyo Giba: In this retrospective music photography exhibition, Giba documents the extraordinary impact of the local jazz scene on artists, photographers and listeners. The work touches on the social injustice surrounding music in South Africa but also makes a call for us to recognise the value of jazz and its legacy. Venue and dates to be announced.
Umzila – Dance by Ikusasa Arts Development: Umzila explores the consequences of the reluctance to accept an inheritance and the turmoil this refusal causes a family. Only by moving to accept the item is the past reconciled. 21, 22 & 24 at The Savoy Theatre
Undead Generation – Music by FiveSidedRecords: Gqeberha’s own “punk fusion” band, Undead Generation is a shape-shifting musical collective of punk rock, community, and fun. Having performed across the country and world, they’re home to give their all at the MBAF. 16 & 24 February at the Black Box Theatre
Uvuko Lwethongo – Poetry/Storytelling by Dongadala Bemdiliza: Translated as ‘the awakening of a dream’ this multidisciplinary production is deeply rooted in Dongadala’s sensational writing about his dreams. Using imagery through words, it’s a spellbinding experience and reflection on the wonders of the dreamworld. 22 & 24 February at The Atheneum Little Theatre
Word Exhibition, 1998 – 2022. – Poetry/Literature (Family show) by Imbizo Arts: An archival trove of benignly sad, violent and sometimes humorous stories about black township life in the 90s depicted through a series of posters. This exhibition is the brain-child of writer and poet Mxolisi Nyezwa. Exhibition opens at the Mendi Arts Centre on 16 February 2024. Writers Sessions 21, 22 & 23 February at Mendi Arts Center
*Dates and times are subject to change
The Mandela Bay Arts Festival will be presented from 16-25 February 2024 in the Nelson Mandela Bay area.
NMB Communications
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