Non-profit organisation, Dancers Love Dogs, are continuing their fund-raising efforts in Durban by showcasing an exciting dance production.
Proceeds raised from the ticket sales and other donations will go toward the mass sterilisation of homeless dogs and other animals in crisis, in some of the most poorest communities, thus reducing the amount of unwanted animals in the community.
Founder Brigitte Reeve-Taylor, a world-renowned dance teacher and choreographer, said: “People come on board with huge hearts and generosity; they really do understand the cause and support us.
“I think knowing the money goes directly to the vets is a huge part of this as often one wonders exactly how much of charity funding goes to the need,” she said.
Through their various shows in major provinces, the NGO has raised close to R5 million and have since sterilised more than 20 000 animals.
“I know this figure needs to be reviewed, as this changes daily ... Our collaboration with the National Sterilization Project has undoubtedly been the biggest win for animals.
“To date they have assisted with over 3000 sterilisations and continue to escalate this every month. Their dedication to true outreach is unbelievable,” stated Reeve-Taylor.
The evening’s proceedings will be hosted by acclaimed comedian, Alan Committie.
Audiences can expect a breathtaking performance featuring some of the very best of dancers from dance schools around the country.
Durbanites are urged to support a great cause while enjoying an unforgettable performance.
Where: Reddam House in uMhlanga.
When: Sunday, October 13, at 3pm.
Cost: Tickets cost R150 and can be purchased through Webtickets.
Poetry Africa
The Durban leg of the 28th annual Poetry Africa festival is here.
The official opening takes place at the Seabrooke Theatre at Durban High School on Thursday, October 10.
The festival will feature spoken word and published poets in performances and engagements, which include panel discussions, poetry exchanges, book launches, open mic sessions and a slam jam competition.
Artist, musician, writer and performer of poetry, Lefifi Tladi is set to present the opening address.
Tladi’s address will be followed by performances that pay tribute to South African activist and educator, Dennis Brutus.
In “Letters to Dennis Brutus”, poets Hawa Kimbugwe (Uganda), Lyndah Sibanda (Zimbabwe), Ivandro Sigaval (Mozambique), Siphokazi Jonas (SA), Nimrod Oscar (Namibia), Teamhw SbonguJesu (SA) and Dr Allia Abdullah-Matta (US), will reflect on Brutus’s impact through original poems that continue his fight for justice and freedom.
On Friday, October 11, the production “The (R) evolution of Words” will take centre stage.
Designed to engage students with the world of poetry, it explores the South African poetry canon and contemporary voices that reflect and challenge the current zeitgeist.
Written by Lebo Mashile and curated by Jade Bowers and Quaz Roodt, the show is performed by a cast of UJ Art Academy students.
The evening will end with the performance of “Poetry: Somehow, We Survive”, hosted by Emma Mabye and featuring other poets from around the world.
Then on Saturday, October 12, the programme focuses on the practical aspects of poetry, including publishing, marketing and the sustainability of an individual poetry practice.
Experts will be presenting discussions and workshops at the Seabrooke’s Theatre and the Drama Room.
There will also be launches of new poetry collections by Kyle Allan, Siphokazi Jonas, and Nkateko Masinga.
The day culminates with the highly-anticipated finale of the 2024 Slam Jam competition, where judges will decide who will represent the country in the World Poetry Slam in Mexico in 2025.
The Poetry Africa programme will also be available online until October 11, to afford audiences from anywhere in the world the opportunity to participate in sessions that will explore the therapeutic and spiritual healing power of poetry.
If you have a passing interest or are driven by a passion for poetry and spoken word, this festival is for you.
Where: The Seabrooke Theatre at Durban High School.
When: From Thursday, October 10, until Saturday, October 12.
Cost: Tickets range from R40 to R250 and can be purchased though Webtickets.
The full Poetry Africa programme can be viewed at poetryafrica.ukzn.ac.za.
“Show Offs”
The International School of Performing Arts (ISPA) is ready to put on a spectacular musical theatre showcase with “Show Offs”.
This production is set to feature the talented students of ISPA who will perform songs from legendary musicals such as “Les Miserables”, “Hamilton”, “Company” and “Anything Goes”.
Lisa Bobbert, an award-winning veteran stage actress and co-founder of ISPA, said: “We are thrilled to share the talents of our students with the North Coast community. This showcase is a testament to all the hard work and dedication of our students and faculty.”
Where: The Reddam House Theatre in Ballito.
When: Tuesday, October 15.
Cost: Tickets are R100 for adults and R80 for students and pensioners and can be purchased through Webtickets or at Pick n Pay stores.