With the National Arts Festival just around the corner, Makhanda is preparing to be immersed in the vibrant energy of the arts once again. Taking place from June 26 to July 6, the Festival anticipates hosting over 2,500 excited attendees, many of whom have already started securing their seats for performances, exhibitions, and cultural experiences.
This year promises unforgettable shows, including timeless works by Athol Fugard, directed by Gqeberha’s own Xabiso Zweni. Audiences will enjoy free daily performances at The Monument, art walkabouts, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re interested in jazz, ballet, or thought-provoking theatre, there are over 240 experiences to entertain you throughout the 11-day event.
The Festival will pay tribute to theatre legend Athol Fugard, who sadly passed away earlier this year. Two of Fugard’s plays (co-written with John Kani and Winston Ntshona), The Island and Sizwe Banzi Is Dead, will be performed at the Festival, where Fugard had once debuted many of his groundbreaking works. The a cappella group, The Soil, will tug at our heartstrings with beatboxing and harmonising, showcasing their new album and fan favourites. They will also be judging the Makhanda Igwijo Competition. Dumza Maswana’s Umngqungqo Orchestral Experience (in collaboration with Kwantu Choir) promises to explore Xhosa culture and traditions through music and storytelling, offering an extraordinary night at the Guy Butler Theatre.
For those eager to witness graceful pirouettes, raw emotion, and gravity-defying movements, Cape Ballet Africa will present SALT, a breathtaking triple bill featuring the works of choreographers Kirsten Isenberg, Mthuthuzeli November, and Michelle Reid. Theatre for Children & Young People will offer interactive plays like The Forest, which combines Amapiano dance moves with contemporary improvisation, unfolding a mystical and multidimensional story both onstage and onscreen. The Village Green market is the perfect spot for anyone looking to find unique souvenirs, delicious food, and more free family-friendly shows on its pop-up stage. This craft market serves as the social hub of the Festival. Be sure to check out Nic’s Nest on African Street, where Standard Bank will host an 1862 Restaurant collab at this local coffee shop.
Another highlight to plot is the performances of the Standard Bank Young Artists, selected for their groundbreaking artistry, who will present new works at the Festival. In addition, the Black Power Station presents a vibrant independent programme showcasing some of the country’s best singers and instrumentalists, while the National Youth Jazz Festival features powerful jazz talents like Gabi Motuba, Sphelelo Mazibuko, Nhlanhla Mahlangu, and Kujenga.
The National Arts Festival is truly a multigenre, people-loving celebration. Don’t forget to soak up a NAF tradition while you’re there and enjoy SAfm Sundowner Concerts at 17:00 every day at The Monument. Experience and support the best of South Africa’s talent live in Makhanda from June 26 to July 6.
Attendees can familiarise themselves with the Festival programme through the app (National Arts Festival on Apple or Android) or the National Arts Festival website and there buy their tickets online.
Catch it between June 26 and July 6.
