30 June 2025
We concluded Youth Month with a scoop. Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis once again made Artscape his theatre of choice as he, his spouse and children came to enjoy BLUEY’S BIG PLAY on Friday evening joining an Opera House full of enthusiastic young ones and parents. With three shows per day we are expecting thousands of children as it runs until 06 July.
The New World Dance Theatre showed its prowess and professionalism at it staged three productions as follows
MESSIAH on the 25 June saw a packed Theatre auditorium, despite the disruptive inclement weather, revel in this contemporary dance work that investigates the human pursuit of a higher force, needing to have faith in something greater. Choreographed by Marlin Zoutman New World Dance Theatre forms part of the emerging producers’ programme.
On the 26th June they showcased DANCING AGAINST ALL ODDS – a vibrant celebration of resilience as dance studios across Cape Town showcased diverse styles and unity. Equally it sought to champion youth empowerment through these electrifying performances.
The now regular BORNE FREES was staged on the 27 June. This production epitomizes New World Dance Theatre’s success story. Just over 10 years ago the idea of showcasing young dancers celebrating democracy was born through this visionary project that unites the youth from WCED Arts Focus Schools to ignite reflection, freedom, and empowerment through movement.
CEO ENGAGEMENTS
On Thursday 26 June the CEO attended the Flemish delegation to celebrate Flanders Day and attended a meeting with Deidre Baartman, Western Cape Finance Minister.
She also attended 25 Lessons at 25 Book Launch of Thembalethu Seyisi and formed part of the panel discussion. Themba is an Attorney at the Centre for Social Justice, Faculty of Law, Research Officer: Law Reform, Data Interface and Outreach – Stellenbosch University
On Friday, 27th she attended a high profile engagement to discuss how civil society can contribute to a healthy South Africa attended by over 200 delegates from across the country. Her topic of contribution centred on ‘The Arts as a powerful force for social change. In attendance were the Poet Siphokazi Jonas, Erika Bornman, Monde Ndoluvu, Dr Imtiaz Sooliman , Dr Louise van Rhyn , Prof Dresh Ramjugemath among others.
On Saturday, 28 June she attended, in Genadendal, an Education conference and presenting the topic “The impact Arts Education has on the holistic development of young learners” The conference was attended by a wide variety of Education leaders from across the country.
RURAL OUTREACH (RIVERSDALE) – SITE VISIT 26/27 JUNE
The Artscape team of Liam Cookson, Shayna Gleave, Faheem Bardien and André Steenveld conducted a site visit to Riversdale (Hessequa Municipaility) the proposed rural outreach location for 2025. The team met with the Mayor (Mr Riddles) and his team consisting of: Mr Heunis, Mr Malan and Ms Williams. The Artscape team provide a general overview of the proposed rural outreach explaining how the shows to be staged, the gala evening and the career workshops. We outlined the roles of the various parties including the assistance required from the Western Cape Education Department in the district.
A meeting with the Western Cape Education Department circuit manager was also conducted.
All meetings were extremely positive with the Municipality and the Education Department eager to make sure that the rural outreach takes place.
ABC MOTSEPE SOUTH AFRICAN SCHOOLS CHORAL EISTEDDFOD (SASCE)
Charles Banjatwa is scheduled to attend the ABC Motsepe South African Schools Choral Eisteddfod (SASCE) national championships that will be held at Rhema Bible Church in Randburg, Gauteng, from July 1 to July 4, 2025. This event is part of the Department of Basic Education’s School Enrichment Programme, in collaboration with the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture. The ABC Motsepe SASCE aims to promote national unity, reconciliation, positive values, and social cohesion through choral music, encouraging a shared South African identity among learners.
CTICC CAREERS DAY EXPO
Artscape participated to the Youth in Action Expo at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) – one of the largest of its kind on the African continent with over 90 institutions, universities, private companies, and a host of other people on site to guide visitors access to counsellors, bursary options, networking sessions, and information on further education and training. The Artscape stall was manned by James and Toberin. Cape Town City Ballet joined the Artscape stand as a guest.
As an interactive expo, attendees can engage with mentors and industry leaders, and explore various career paths, enhance their skills, and gain insights into the professional world.
Building on the success of the first Youth in Action Expo last year, the CTICC is this year partnered with Gift of the Givers and Smile FM which was open to all with free entry.
UPCOMING
BACK2BACK
Acclaimed Cape Town performers Alistair Izobell and Loukman Adams reminisce their 42-year friendship and working relationship in a laugh-a-minute reflection on the good, the bad and the ugly.
EVERYBODY’S TALKING ABOUT JAMIE
Based on a true story the musical follows a 16-year old who dreams of performing in drag – an inspiring tale of self-expression and resilience.