Artistic Director Vacancy

Published on October 14, 2026

The National Arts Festival (NAF) seeks to appoint a dynamic, highly networked Artistic Director on a 5-year renewable-term contract. The Artistic Director builds the soul of the festival. They set the artistic vision and curatorial identity that make Makhanda the place where Africa's artistic future is imagined, created, discovered and shared with the world. The

Lift off for the first online National Arts Festival

Published on June 25, 2020

The National Arts Festival has made history today with the launch of the first ever digital iteration of South Africa’s major arts festival. The 46th National Arts Festival was unable to go ahead as a live event when COVID-19 shuttered theatres, cultural spaces and festivals globally. Rather than cancel the event,  the organisation decided to

Announcing more shows for adventurous audiences

Published on June 17, 2020

As the 25 June launch of South Africa’s first Virtual National Arts Festival draws rapidly nearer, the Festival has released further details about additional shows to expect on the diverse and adventurous programme that will see the Festival coming into the homes of audiences for the first time ever. National Arts Festival Artistic Director Rucera

Creativate: Taking a glimpse into future of the arts

Published on June 12, 2020

The Creativate Digital Arts Festival, presented by Standard Bank, is back for its third year and continues to provide a digital playground for adventurous artists and curious audiences at the National Arts Festival. This year, Creativate forms a captivating thread through the Virtual National Arts programme with a collection of online interactive digital art workshops,

Get ready for the ultimate online celebration of SA arts

Published on June 10, 2020

Happening entirely online from 25 June-5 July 2020, the Virtual National Arts Festival will be remembered for marking the historic year the 46-year-old Festival went online due to Covid-19 restrictions. The Festival will be presenting work that speaks to these unique times, and will feature the results of many new collaborations, experimental forms and new

How to… buy tickets and watch shows

Published on June 9, 2020

We’re doing something brand-new this year by holding the National Arts Festival online. But this has left many of our Festival fans scratching their heads: just how am I going to experience vNAF? Here’s a short guide to the Festival, and an introductory ‘How To…’ How to… buy tickets and watch shows There’s lots to

Webinar: How to participate in the new Virtual Green

Published on June 8, 2020

Facilitated by Selina White, Village Green Director for the past 21 years, this webinar will introduce the 2020 Virtual Green, share a sneak peek of the new website and explain the process of submitting work. Crafters and other experts will talk about getting the most out of having an online presence. For traders, creators, crafters,

Browse Festival arts and crafts from your sofa

Published on June 4, 2020

The Village Green, the buzzing fair at the heart of the National Arts Festival, will this year become an online treasure trove of crafted wares and savvy finds.  “We decided that the show must go on this year, which has meant that the Festival has pivoted into the digital realm,” says Monica Newton, the CEO

Showering love on local craft and design

Published on June 3, 2020

Many of the traders who usually fill the chilly winter air in Makhanda with exuberant sales chatter and infectious warmth, will be strutting their stuff in digital stalls at the National Arts Festival’s Virtual Green in 2020. Marking its trajectory into this new territory, the Festival has partnered with the Craft and Design Institute (CDI)

Meet the team behind the Festival’s new virtual market

Published on June 3, 2020

Three strong-willed women keep the Village Green wheels turning. This year, without the sawdust and tents, Director Selina White and her assistants Clarissa Carolus and Rene Engelbrecht, are polishing their online skills to help create digital stalls for the crafters, creators and resellers that have become part of the NAF family over the years. They

Pieces fall into place for reimagined Festival

Published on May 29, 2020

The Virtual National Arts Festival programme is slowly starting to emerge – it has been cocooned away as our Curatorial Committee got to grips with reimagining what this festival could become. Now, just short of 30 days before ‘lift-off’, we are starting to appreciate its complexities. The Festival’s website is readying itself to become a

Exciting plans to exhibit works online for vNAF2020

Published on May 28, 2020

The National Arts Festival is going virtual this year with an exciting programme that includes visual art. There will be a wide-ranging and eclectic collection of works from South Africa and the world available to view and explore online between 25 June and 5 July. The National Arts Festival’s annual Makhanda take-over usually involves the

Webinar: Marketing your online work

Published on May 28, 2020

You can make the work but then comes the marketing! To help you figure out how to get more clicks on your online show, we’ve assembled a squad of extraordinary marketers and strategists to give you the best advice for marketing online. Join National Arts Festival Communications Manager Sascha Polkey as she hosts a discussion

Webinar: Creating for digital platforms (Part 3)

Published on May 26, 2020

Join National Arts Festival Technical Director Nicci Spalding as she hosts a think tank on how to go about creating work for online platforms. This webinar offers practical tips on a variety of processes, including smart phone videoing, audio recordings, filming and more. The panellists for this webinar are: Francois Knoetze is a performance artist,

Q&A: Rights and royalties explained

Published on May 22, 2020

A webinar exploring online rights, royalties and obligations was recently hosted by the National Arts Festival, with an expert panel delving into the legal issues of putting content online. If you missed it, you can view a recording here. The panel, facilitated by NAF Executive Producer Nobesuthu Rayi, comprised: Elroy Bell – Supervisor: Theatricals, Visual Arts

Webinar: Creating for digital platforms (Part 2)

Published on May 19, 2020

The second webinar on creating work for digital platforms will be held on Friday 22 May. It will focus on how to participate in vFringe 2020 and will be presented by Fringe Manager Zikhona Monaheng and Technical Director Nicci Spalding. When: Friday 22 May at 2pm to 3.30pm Register to attend Part II Artists interested

Design the vNAF t-shirt – and win R5 000!

Published on May 19, 2020

The 46th National Arts Festival will be a very special one. Due to Covid-19, the Festival will be going online for the first time in history. To mark this occasion, we would like to create a souvenir, collectable t-shirt, which will be available to purchase. We are crowdsourcing the design for this t-shirt and are

Giving artists a platform to earn money

Published on May 14, 2020

The Virtual National Arts Festival, due to kick off on 25 June 2020, has announced a new digital platform created especially for artists wanting to showcase their work and earn an income online. vFringe – a virtual version of the open access Fringe Festival – opened its doors today for submissions from artists. National Arts

Meet the fab four behind the vFringe

Published on May 14, 2020

The Fabulous vFringe Team is made up of two NAF old-timers – Manager Zikhona Monaheng and her assistant Sisanda Mankayi  – as well as two newbies – Nqobile Mbhele (from the NAF Tech Team) and Kuhle Ngqezana (who’s transferred over from Scifest Africa to help us out). This intrepid foursome will be managing the content,

Webinar: Creating for digital platforms (Part 1)

Published on May 13, 2020

Part I – The Creative Process: Friday 15 May 14:00 – 15:30 Part II – The Practical Guide: Friday 22 May 14:00 – 15:30 Part III – Tips from the Experts: Wednesday 27 May 16:00 – 17:30 Part 1 – The Creative Process On Friday 15 May, the National Arts Festival will host a Zoom

Webinar: Online work and the law

Published on May 6, 2020

As arts and entertainment moves rapidly into the digital space, there is a steep learning curve around the technical and legal aspects of making work. One important area that artists need to develop their skills around is the legal and ongoing cost impact of the content they put online. Using another artist’s music or text

Meet the NAF team: Lauren Fletcher, Creativate Curator

Published on May 3, 2020

Lauren Fletcher is another one of the Festival team’s Jack (Jill?) of all trades, having been involved in many projects over the years. This year, as the curator and project manager of the Creativate Digital Arts Festival as well as a project manager for the Virtual National Arts Festival, Lauren has her hands full keeping

Bringing the best of tech + creativity to your screen

Published on May 3, 2020

Creativate Digital Arts Festival, presented by Standard Bank and the National Arts Festival, is back for its third edition. And we’re excited to be part of the new adventure that is the Virtual National Arts Festival in 2020. This year’s online edition of Creativate will bring the best creative and tech makers worldwide straight into

vNAF: We answer your webinar questions

Published on April 23, 2020

Our first Talk to the Team webinar was held online on 21 April 2020 – thank you to all who participated and watched the live broadcast. If you missed it, you can view it in full here. The panel, who discussed their plans for how they see the Virtual National Arts Festival taking shape in

NAF team explains digital format for 2020

Published on April 22, 2020

In the first of a series of ‘Talk to the Team’ webinars, we explain how we envisage the first-ever Virtual National Arts Festival is going to work Soon after the lockdown was announced in March, the National Arts Festival made the decision to go digital. In a webinar on Tuesday, 21 April, the Festival’s team explained

We’re here. You’re here – Let’s talk

Published on April 16, 2020

Talk to the team Tuesday 21 April at 4pm Book your space here National Arts Festival CEO Monica Newton is joined by her colleagues from the engine room of the Virtual NAF in a virtual Q&A webinar (hosted on Zoom) on the how, what, why and when of this new iteration of the Festival. Rucera Seethal

Send us your ideas for a Virtual National Arts Festival

Published on April 10, 2020

We are inviting all artists, producers, digital pioneers and anyone else whose imagination we’ve sparked to tell us how they could be part of Virtual NAF2020. If a work is selected for presentation on the Virtual NAF platform, we will be in contact to initiate discussions about producing and/or presenting work on our channels. Fill in

Virtual NAF: your questions answered

Published on April 9, 2020

Welcome to our world for 2020 – with a brand-new concept for our ‘new normal’ We’ve put together a list of answers to some of your burning questions about this year’s Virtual National Arts Festival. We’ll be adding and changing this list as it all unfolds. If you have any suggestions or comments, please get

How we’ll be doing it differently this year

Published on April 3, 2020

The Covid-19 pandemic has put the arts sector and all related events under tremendous strain. As public health concerns became a priority, it became clear that the National Arts Festival could not proceed in its traditional format. However, instead of cancelling the event outright, the Festival’s management made the bold decision to take the event

Meet the NAF team: Rucera Seethal, Artistic Director

Published on April 3, 2020

We asked Rucera Seethal, the Artistic Director of the National Arts Festival, some questions about how she’s finding her new job in these challenging, ever-shifting times… You are currently in Johannesburg with your family for the lockdown period but you moved to Makhanda in January. How have you found small-town life? Any surprises about our

Be part of Creativate Digital Arts Festival 2020

Published on March 6, 2020

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”] Technological connection is the new normal and we must reimagine what is ‘real’, what is ‘natural’, what is creativity. What does it mean to be human, to be aware, what does

SA’s national treasure is this year’s Featured Artist

Published on March 3, 2020

The National Arts Festival annually pays tribute to an artist who has made a significant mark on the country’s arts landscape and, this year, the fitting recipient of the accolade of Featured Artist is indigenous musician Madosini Latozi Mpahleni, best known as simply Madosini. “Madosini is our national treasure. She has kept alive the tradition

‘We’re aiming to deliver the best possible Festival’

Published on March 2, 2020

Monica Newton, the new CEO of the National Arts Festival, has hit the ground running since moving to Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown) in December. We asked her some questions about how she’s finding things – and what’s she planning for the year ahead… After having lived in Johannesburg for a long time, how are you finding

Top travel tips for Festival early birds

Published on March 1, 2020

It’s never too early to start planning your #NAF2020 trip and here are some tips to get you cracking: No programme? No problem! You don’t need to wait till the programme has been announced to book your trip – as always, we can guarantee there is something for everyone (and, besides, spontaneity is half the fun).

‘Intriguing, hopeful’ script wins 2020 Distell competition

Published on February 4, 2020

Amy Louise Wilson was announced as the winner of the 2020 Distell National Playwright Competition at an awards ceremony in Stellenbosch on Friday 31 January. The competition aims to discover and foster new South African voices while also promoting diversity and social cohesion. It was founded in honour of Adam and Rosalie Small, whose work

Monica Newton takes the reins at NAF

Published on December 4, 2019

Experienced arts administrator Monica Newton has been appointed as the new chief executive officer of the National Arts Festival. She will take up her position in January 2020. Newton has wide experience in the arts and culture sector, having worked with national, provincial and local government and related government agencies since 1997. She has been

5 fresh voices are this year’s Distell finalists

Published on November 25, 2019

The names of the five finalists of the Distell National Playwright Competition of 2020 have been announced. These fresh new South African voices, whose scripts have sufficiently impressed the judges of this annual playwriting competition, run by the National Arts Festival and supported by Distell, are: Tamarisk-Ray Glogauer from Wilderness, Western Cape (written in English)

Apply now to be part of the Fringe in 2020

Published on November 7, 2019

The call for registration for the 2020 Fringe at the National Arts Festival is now open! The 46th Festival will take place from 25 June – 5 July 2020 in Makhanda (Grahamstown). The Fringe is the non-curated part of the Festival programme; open to all. It provides a space where artists and producers can showcase

The 5 artists shaking up SA’s creative industry

Published on November 5, 2019

Blessing Ngobeni, Nthato Mokgata, Lulu Mlangeni, Jefferson Tshabalala, and Sisonke Xonti join the ranks of the Standard Bank Young Artists Five of South Africa’s most innovative and talented creative individuals were named as the worthy recipients of one of the country’s most sought-after arts prizes – the Standard Bank Young Artist Award – at a

Rucera Seethal is NAF’s new Artistic Director 

Published on October 2, 2019

Rucera Seethal is the newly appointed Artistic Director of the National Arts Festival (NAF), the flagship festival held annually in Makhanda and the biggest festival of its kind on the African continent. She will officially take up the position in January 2020, but will be engaging in Festival curation processes in the interim. Seethal’s appointment

Explained: New pathways to the NAF Fringe

Published on August 29, 2019

Given the tough broader arts environment that artists are operating in, the challenges of Makhanda as well as the heavy cost of staging the Fringe, we’re looking at revising the way the National Arts Festival Fringe works. The aims of the proposed new model are: A Fringe that is more viable for artists A Fringe

Sharjah: Be part of a brand-new fringe festival

Published on August 26, 2019

The inaugural 2020 Sharjah Fringe, the first-ever fringe festival in the UAE, will be a brand-new, global platform of the best family and children’s theatre. It will run from 16 January to 1 February 2020. The organisers have issued a worldwide call for producers of work that will “inspire, entertain, thrill and amaze” young audiences

Let’s talk about the future of the Fringe

Published on August 21, 2019

A new-look National Arts Festival Fringe is on the way – and we want to run it by you The arts world is going through interesting times. And now, more than ever, the role of festivals in general (and the National Arts Festival in particular) is worth reflecting on. We’ve been working on a brand-new

Tony and Thuli Cox – live in concert in Makhanda

Published on August 20, 2019

Tony Cox Live in Concert – with special guest Thuli Cox Presented in partnership with the Creative City Project A special concert is planned for the end of August when phenomenal guitarist Tony Cox comes to Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown). Accompanied for some of the concert by his young daughter Thuli, Tony intends wowing his audience

Sign up for E Cape Schools’ Fest on the Road

Published on August 14, 2019

The Eastern Cape Schools’ Fest on the Road will be held on 17 and 18 September in Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown). To whet your appetite, please have a look through some of the productions and workshops that have been confirmed already. Sign up as soon as possible by filling in the short registration form here. For

We’re looking for a new leader…

Published on August 7, 2019

Update: Applications are now closed. Thank you for your interest in this position. MAKHANDA – The National Arts Festival and Grahamstown Foundation have begun the recruitment process for a new joint-CEO, with the publishing of the job specification and call for applications today. The full candidate’s pack is available here. Applicants are requested to download

Distell2020: Chance for new writers to stage work

Published on August 5, 2019

The National Arts Festival is calling on new playwrights to step forward with exciting ideas for plays that will inspire and challenge audiences for the 2020 Distell National Playwright Competition. The inaugural competition was launched in 2018 in honour of Adam and Rosalie Small, leading lights in South African education, social justice and literature. The

NAF’s curators share tips on what they’re looking for

Published on July 24, 2019

Not long after the curtain has fallen on the 2019 National Arts Festival, organisers are in preparation mode once again, announcing the call for artists to submit works for the 2020 Festival Main Programme. They have a short window to do so, with applications closing on 19 August. The 2020 National Arts Festival is set

Celebrating Standard Bank Ovation Award winners!

Published on July 7, 2019

A sold-out performance by Freshlyground and a free parade through the streets of Makhanda on Sunday saw out the National Arts Festival, an 11-day cultural binge of arts and entertainment. Organisers say it is too early to report back on ticket sales, but the overall impression is that the 2019 National Arts Festival was resilient

Latest Ovation Award winners at #NAF2019

Published on July 6, 2019

Artistic innovation, excellence, the exploration of new performance styles and the courage to open new conversation through the arts underpin the motivation for the winners of the Standard Bank Ovation Award. These are the latest daily winners, selected by a jury of critics, writers, journalists and theatre makers from hundreds of plays on the Fringe.  

Join the Festival parade & bid farewell to NAF2019

Published on July 5, 2019

A decade ago, the first Festival Parade was held on the streets of Grahamstown; this year, the street parade will bid farewell to the 45th National Arts Festival through the streets of Makhanda. Vibrant colours, rhythmic sounds, captivating sights… collaboration, clowning, costumes… smiles and laughter and whoops of joy – the sounds, the colours, the

Return of the Cypher Festival programme

Published on July 2, 2019

Aroundhiphop and The Blk Power Station Present: The Return of the Cypher Festival Aroundhiphop is proud to re-present its flagship hip hop festival, The Return of the Cypher, at the National Arts Festival 2019. This three-day festival, which will, for the first time, be hosted at the Blk Power Station (Aroundhiphop’s base at the Old

I seek to work around the violence – Gabrielle Goliath

Published on June 29, 2019

Gabrielle Goliath is this year’s Standard Bank Young Artist for Visual Art. This is the speech she gave at the opening of the visual art exhibitions on Friday 28 June. Her exhibition in the Monument Gallery is called This Song is For… Bohemian Rhapsody… This song is for… Nondumiso Msimanga Ave Maria… This song is

Choir, dancers celebrate opening of 45th Festival

Published on June 27, 2019

A chilly but blue-skied Makhanda morning marked the opening and first day of the 2019 National Arts Festival, the country’s biggest and most diverse arts festival, which runs from 27 June to 7 July. The crowd watched as the flag was raised and the South African and African Union national anthems were sung by the

Mining a rich seam of talks, workshops at NAF

Published on June 25, 2019

Much of the action at the National Arts Festival, which runs from 27 June to 7 July in Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown), takes place on the stages but there’s a lot going on off-stage too, with an exciting programme of thought-provoking talks and workshops to enrich and complement every Festival-goer’s experience. Interactive audience experiences are spread

It’s all systems go for the 45th National Arts Festival

Published on June 24, 2019

It’s all systems go for the opening of the 45th National Arts Festival in Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown) this week, with the curtain going up an a wide array of productions and performances on Thursday 27 June. The Festival is an important event in South Africa’s arts eco-system and provides a vital platform for artists to

Young Artists embrace the realm of the ancestors

Published on June 24, 2019

“Space has continuous conversations with those who pass through it – that same space has memory – that space carries our heritage. The theatre is a space for confession. Listen to the echo, the ancestors are speaking.” In a first in the history of the Standard Bank Young Artist Awards, Young Artist of the Year

Where to eat and where to play at #NAF2019

Published on June 24, 2019

It’s not just your head and your heart that need filling at Festival time, it’s your belly too! Here are some ideas on where to eat, drink and be merry in Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown): Coffee and restaurants Major Fraser’s Craft Bar and Eatery: Corner of Somerset and High streets (opposite Drostdy Arch). Vibey atmosphere with gorgeous

Kitty Phetla: dancing to her own tune

Published on June 23, 2019

Kitty Phetla is a senior soloist and choreographer at Joburg Ballet. She has toured and performed extensively on stages across the globe. One of her most noteworthy recent performances was her Queen Modjadji-inspired Rain Dance for Cape Town, in situ at the then-parched Theewaterskloof Dam. You grew up in Johannesburg. How did you discover dance? And what led you to your

Unlocking the fabulousness of the Fringe

Published on June 21, 2019

There are a few things you may not know about navigating the hundreds of performances on offer at the National Arts Festival Fringe, which runs in Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown) for 11 Amazing Days from 27 June to 7 July. The Fringe is a hotbed of innovation and packed with shows you will love discovering. Keep

Theatre for one actor, one audience member at a time

Published on June 21, 2019

Theatre between a single actor and a single audience member at a time DEURnis / Uzwelo one-on-one is an award-winning, exciting new immersive theatre experience and a first for South Africa. As site-specific theatre, solo plays will be performed in different spaces in the PJ Oliver building for a single audience member at a time,

Infuse your art with digital delectation

Published on June 20, 2019

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1A8ZlDegT0Q[/embedyt]     As the countdown to Makhanda hits single figures, you’re probably wondering how you’ll be spending the time you’re not on stage….well wonder no more! Last year we launched Creativate Digital

Women of the past inspire young violinist

Published on June 20, 2019

Neo Motsatse’s 2019 National Arts Festival show, Seasons: Dorothy Masuka Songbook in the style of Vivaldi is a compilation of South African jazz singer Dorothy Masuka’s songbook, according to the seasons of her life, and is based on Italian Baroque composer Antonio Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons violin concerti.  BOOK NOW: SEASONS: DOROTHY MASUKA SONGBOOK IN THE STYLE

Makhanda gets ready for the National Arts Festival

Published on June 18, 2019

The banners, posters and flags are going up as Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown) prepares to host the 45th National Arts Festival, 11 days of an amazing feast of arts, culture and free entertainment. This year the Festival is on from 27 June to 7 July. Local authorities, private business, civic organisations and special project task teams have galvanised around

Mandla Mlangeni: fluent in the language of jazz

Published on June 14, 2019

Mandla Mlangeni is a jazz trumpeter and composer who has become a popular fixture on local and international stages. A gifted bandleader, Mlangeni has carved out a name for himself with various bands and ensembles, including the Amandla Freedom Ensemble, with which he has released two albums. Fluent in the language of jazz — with a

Packing for Makhanda – the essential list

Published on June 13, 2019

We all know that Makhanda can get colder than a polar bear’s toenails during Festival, especially at night, but the days can get quite warm so you’ll need layers to peel back as you thaw out in the sun. So the million dollar question – what to pack for NAF? We asked some Festival veterans

Young artists to break new ground at NAF

Published on June 12, 2019

As South Africans pause to reflect on the legacy and future of our youth in South Africa in the build-up to Youth Day on 16 June, the National Arts Festival (NAF) is proud of the pivotal role it plays in showcasing the innovative ideas and resilience of young creatives.  Nobesuthu Rayi, the National Arts Festival’s

Finding your way to and around Festival City

Published on June 11, 2019

Travelling to Makhanda Coming to the Festival this year? Maybe you’ve never been before. Here’s a quick look at how to get there. BY AIR: The two closest airports to Festival central aka Makhanda (formerly known as Grahamstown) are in Gqeberha (about 1.5 hours’ drive away) and East London (about 2 hours’ drive). There are

Well Worn’s season of theatre activism at NAF2019

Published on June 10, 2019

“The visions we offer our children shape the future. It matters what those visions are. Often they become self-fulfilling prophecies. Dreams are maps.” – Carl Sagan, Pale Blue Dot: A Vision of the Human Future in Space Well Worn Theatre Company will present a season of theatre activism at the National Arts Festival, which runs

Creativate Digital Arts Festival: 5 highlights

Published on June 6, 2019

The second Creativate Digital Arts Festival, supported by Standard Bank, runs across all 11 days of the National Arts Festival this year, offering a vast and exciting menu of innovation, creativity and inspiration. Read more about the 2nd Creativate Digital Arts Festival [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat”

Creativate: a line-up for the insanely curious

Published on June 6, 2019

The second Creativate Digital Arts Festival is landing in Makhanda this June/July with a vast menu of innovation, creativity and inspiration on offer The second Creativate Digital Arts Festival, supported by Standard Bank, runs across all 11 days of the National Arts Festival in Makhanda (27 June to 7 July) and offers a vast and

‘It’s the audiences that keep me going’

Published on June 1, 2019

A true child of the Festival, Rob van Vuuren is celebrating 25 years at NAF this year with more than 20 performances in 11 amazing days. We asked this high-energy performer how it all began, what keeps him coming back – and what’s going to happen next… You’re an incredibly versatile performer – from rolling-in-the

Free – and fun! – things for families at the Festival

Published on June 1, 2019

The National Arts Festival presents great opportunities for families to introduce their children to all that the arts can offer. But we’re also aware that things can get expensive if you’re a family. Here are 10 things for families to enjoy at no cost at all. SUNDOWNER CONCERTS: The ever-popular Sundowner Concerts at Fountain Foyer

Megan-Geoffrey Prins: musical explorer

Published on June 1, 2019

Megan-Geoffrey Prins is a pianist whose prodigious talent was evident early on – he had performed with all South Africa’s major orchestras by the age of 14. Today, he traverses the world as a solo performer and chamber musician, often returning home for concerts, teaching engagements and community outreach initiatives. He is this year’s Standard

A chance to see the world on our stages

Published on May 27, 2019

International acts give audiences the chance to experience world-class talent on our local stages “One of the things that sets the National Arts Festival apart from most other Festivals in South Africa is how it attracts participation from artists around the world, giving our audiences the chance to see some amazingly special work,” says Tony

Something special for learners

Published on May 26, 2019

The National Schools Festival runs from 25-30 June in Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown). There is a jam-packed programme on its way and learners will experience an intensive, immersive, fun arts experience in the company of their peers from across South Africa. If you’re a teacher and would like to book your learners into the Schools’ Festival,

Amplifying Africa: shows to celebrate who we are

Published on May 24, 2019

This weekend, during which the world celebrates Africa Day, we highlight productions that explore culture and connection, land and belonging The Main programme of the 2019 National Arts Festival has an Afro-positive slant, with stories and voices from across the land combining with a rich variety of indigenous music and dance that delve into the

Where to get the Arts Festival programme

Published on May 24, 2019

With hundreds of performances, it’s good to get to grips with what’s on offer at the National Arts Festival before it begins. And it’s even better to keep abreast of what’s happening next when it’s under way. There are a few ways for Festival-goers to do this: Browse the programme online The ‘Browse by Day‘

Gabrielle Goliath: embracing the capacious

Published on May 21, 2019

Gabrielle Goliath is this year’s Young Artist for Visual Art. She is a multidisciplinary artist who is known for sensitively negotiating complex social concerns in her work, particularly relating to gender-based and sexual violence.  You have exhibited extensively, with solo shows at Goodman Gallery, Circa and at Gallery Momo; as well as internationally in New

Be assured, the show will go on!

Published on May 16, 2019

Thank you to everyone who sent us notes of concern and calls today to check on the status and safety of the Festival in light of the breaking story of the exit of the Gift of the Givers from Makhanda. “The most important thing you should know is that the 2019 National Arts Festival is

Find the fearless, the first and fun on the Fringe

Published on May 6, 2019

The National Arts Festival transforms Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown) into a multi-stage, multi-genre arts experience. The Festival runs from 27 June-7 July this year. This year’s Fringe programme has been announced ahead of the box office opening on 7 May.  The Fringe at the National Arts Festival is that part of the programme populated entirely by works from artists who are bringing their shows to

Meet Berni Searle, the 2019 Featured Artist

Published on May 5, 2019

Each year the National Arts Festival celebrates the work of a featured artist – a South African artist of exceptional talent who has consistently exhibited ground-breaking work, shaping the arts narrative of South Africa. This year is the first time a visual artist has been honoured in this way. Berni Searle will premiere a new work at the Gallery

Money too tight to mention? No problem!

Published on April 29, 2019

We’re only too aware of the pressure we’re all under when it comes to watching our Rands and cents. That’s why we’re keeping ticket prices as low as possible, and laying on loads of discounted and free events to ensure that there’s something for everyone at this year’s National Arts Festival. Here are some top

Main programme highlights at NAF2019

Published on April 24, 2019

The dizzying rotation of newsfeeds, non-stop change and the struggle for something newer, more connected and as yet unborn, is played out in the works on the National Arts Festival’s 2019 Main Programme, which is selectively curated by the Festival and its Artistic Committee. Held in Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown) from 27 June-7 July this year,

Nobesuthu Rayi shares her Top 5 picks

Published on April 24, 2019

“What a mammoth task I have been given to choose my Top 5 from such a well put-together programme for 2019 that gives one space to experience it all in 11 Days of Amazing,” says Nobesuthu Rayi, the Festival’s Acting Executive Producer. Ingoma Ka Tiyo Soga I look forward to experiencing an exhibition of Skhumbuzo

Freedom belongs to those who create it

Published on April 23, 2019

By Nobesuthu Rayi, Acting Executive Producer of the National Arts Festival [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”] The 45th edition of the National Arts Festival in Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown) will take place two months after the City and

Amy Jephta: Championing theatre for and by women

Published on April 22, 2019

This year’s Standard Bank Young Artist for Theatre is Amy Jephta. She is a playwright who has also built a reputation as a filmmaker, activist and academic. A champion of theatre by and for women, she has been a driving force in local and global initiatives promoting opportunities for female playwrights. Looking at your career so

Open an enchanted box of delight at NAF2019

Published on April 10, 2019

Theatre and the arts are proven to expand the minds of children and have a significant impact on many teens. Through storytelling and symbols, the arts can assist children in better understanding cultural diversity, their own emotions and fears, how to deal with social situations and learn about historic events. Teens also grow empathy as

Blow your ear sockets at #SBJazz2019

Published on March 14, 2019

The Standard Bank Jazz Festival was launched in Johannesburg last night. Early bookings are now open! Here’s a note from Festival Director ALAN WEBSTER about what you can expect in Makhanda in 2019 The Standard Bank Jazz Festival, Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown) is now in its 32nd year and is a special jazz festival, produced as

Peek behind the curtain: more top shows revealed

Published on March 13, 2019

The 45th National Arts Festival is all set to open on 27 June for 11 amazing days, and the organisers have revealed more top shows confirmed for the 2019 programme. The full programme will be online from mid-April and all shows will be open for booking on 7 May 2019. The Festival runs from 27

6 steps to a hassle-free Festival

Published on March 11, 2019

It’s almost 100 days until the start of the 45th National Arts Festival, the biggest, busiest and most exciting celebration of the arts in South Africa. Running for 11 amazing days in Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown), the Festival opens on the 27th of June with a programme aimed at entertaining, delighting and provoking audiences coming from

‘This story is important to me’ – Distell winner Putuma

Published on March 7, 2019

Writer and performance poet Koleka Putuma is the winner of this year’s Distell National Playwright Competition, aimed at discovering emerging South African talent and fostering new South African voices. Putuma was announced as the winner at an awards function in Cape Town on Wednesday 6 March. She wins R25 000 in prize money — as

We’ve got this! Letter from the CEO

Published on March 5, 2019

As you are likely to have heard, our City, Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown) is currently experiencing the effects of a severe drought that is the worst we’ve seen in 220 years. The effects have been exacerbated by a largely inadequate and poorly maintained municipal infrastructure and, as a result, a large number of our residents have

Berni Searle is the Featured Artist for 2019

Published on February 21, 2019

The National Arts Festival has announced that its 2019 Featured Artist is Berni Searle, a visual artist based in Cape Town. Each year the National Arts Festival celebrates the work of a featured artist – a South African artist who has consistently exhibited ground-breaking work and exceptional talent, shaping the arts narrative of South Africa.

Latest ‘Short Sharp Stories’ now on sale

Published on February 20, 2019

THE winners of the Short Sharp Stories writing competition have been announced – with the final top 20 stories now on sale as a collection titled INSTANT EXPOSURE. Short Sharp Stories is an award made annually by the National Arts Festival to encourage, support and showcase established and emerging South African writing talent. Writers were

Tech boss Nicci Spalding and her elastic brain

Published on February 19, 2019

ONE of the things the National Arts Festival is best known for is its outstanding technical expertise and professional stage services, breathing life into artists’ creative visions – and this is thanks largely to our Technical Director, Nicci Spalding, who can spot a missing plug, a wrongly angled light or misplaced nail at 100 paces! Nicci,

Masicule: Vusi Mahlasela to lead 800 voices in song

Published on February 18, 2019

By Kate Davies Masicule celebrates its sixth birthday at the Guy Butler Theatre at the Monument in Makhanda on 24 and 25 February 2019. Masicule encourages next-level collaboration that culminates in a mind-blowing evening that will amaze, invigorate, inspire and move you. Masicule 2019 features choirs and ensembles from Nombulelo High School, Ntsika Secondary School, Kingswood

Distell playwright finalists announced

Published on February 15, 2019

The National Arts Festival has revealed the five finalists of the Distell National Playwright Competition. These finalists will now embark on to the next phase of the competition – a mentoring programme, during which they will receive advice and support towards preparing the final version of their scripts. The Distell National Playwright Competition recognises new talent

The year that was, and the year to come

Published on December 17, 2018

We ask the outgoing 2018 Standard Bank Young Artists about their experiences – and find out what they’re up to next… Jemma Kahn, Theatre Making THE BORROW PIT as SBYA for Theatre 2018 was the perfect experience. There wasn’t a single asshole along the way – not in administration, production or creation. I think that is remarkable. And I got to make

3 flagship shows on sale in December

Published on December 7, 2018

For the first time ever, audiences will have the chance in December to snap up early tickets to three flagship productions at the 2019 National Arts Festival in Makhanda, which will be held from 27 June to 7 July next year. “Today we’re announcing the return of genius comedian Dylan Moran with his new show DR

Call to participate in Digital Arts Festival in 2019

Published on November 14, 2018

Artists who are exploring the innovative space where arts and technology converge are invited to submit a proposal to be part of the second edition of the Creativate Digital Arts Festival in Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown). Creativate, which will run concurrently with the National Arts Festival this year – 27 June to 7 July 2019. It

5 artistic innovators receive ‘ultimate accolade’

Published on October 31, 2018

Mandla Mlangeni, Kitty Phetla, Megan-Geoffrey Prins, Amy Jephta and Gabrielle Goliath join the Standard Bank Young Artist honour roll  Since its inception almost four decades ago, the Standard Bank Young Artist Award has come to be regarded as the ultimate accolade for young South African arts innovators on the cusp of greatness – and the

Apply now to be part of the Fringe in 2019

Published on October 29, 2018

UPDATE: Applications for the 2019 Fringe are now closed. Thank you for your interest. Artists and performers from South Africa and beyond are invited to submit their work for the 2019 National Arts Festival Fringe. The 45th iteration of South Africa’s biggest and most diverse arts showcase will take place from 27 June to 7

Calling all emerging South African writers

Published on October 18, 2018

A chance to showcase your work at the National Arts Festival The National Arts Festival and Distell have joined forces to seek out and showcase fresh storytellers and new voices with the launch of the Distell National  Playwright Competition. The competition, for debut playwrights who haven’t staged their work before, is run in honour of

Eastern Cape divas’ extraordinary night

Published on October 17, 2018

Zahara, Msaki, Nombasa Maqoko and the Makhanda Kwantu Choir filled up the Guy Butler Theatre at the Monument on 5 October, showcasing some of the Eastern Cape’s finest talent. The sold-out event was organised by the National Arts Festival and Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency (ECPTA) to mark the end of a successful National

World stars headed for CT Buskers Festival

Published on October 15, 2018

Street performers fresh from the international festival circuit and some of South Africa’s hottest buskers will be converging on the V&A Waterfront for the third Cape Town Buskers Festival, which begins on 1 November 2018. The city’s third Buskers Festival will run from 1 and 11 November (with the performers having rest days on 5

Live performances still top list for Festival visitors

Published on September 25, 2018

What is better than a new customer? One that comes back for more – and a whopping 83% of respondents to our post-Festival survey said they would return to the annual celebration of the arts in future years. The “How Did We Do” survey, sent out by email to subscribers to our Fest44 newsletter, aimed

Access to arts ‘critical for transformation’

Published on September 18, 2018

The arts’ scene elite attended a ceremony in Mpumalanga recently to hand over a special award to a most deserving theatre company – the Forgotten Angle Theatre Collaborative  [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”] [/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left

Cape Town Buskers Festival set for November 2018

Published on September 12, 2018

The popular Cape Town Buskers Festival returns to the V&A Waterfront from 1-11 November 2018 when buskers from the international festival circuit join local performers in a celebration of the crowd-stopping, free-wheeling street art  Presented by the Cape Town Fringe in partnership with the V&A Waterfront, the programme of comedy, physical theatre, dance and music

NAF to produce first-ever Fringe in UAE

Published on August 20, 2018

EDINBURGH – Against the backdrop of the iconic Edinburgh Fringe, the world’s largest arts platform, it was announced this week that South Africa’s National Arts Festival has been contracted to co-produce and present the first fringe on the Arabian Peninsula. The new fringe festival will debut in Sharjah, in the United Arab Emirates, in January

Deadline for 2019 Main programme extended

Published on August 10, 2018

The closing date for new and established artists to submit proposals for possible inclusion in next year’s Main programme of the National Arts Festival, which will run from 27 June to 7 July 2019, has been extended to 5pm on 31 August. All proposals received from artists and producers will be reviewed by the Artistic

National Arts Festival reports positive results

Published on August 2, 2018

New projects and initiatives and the “consistency of delivering great art to our audiences” combined to give this year’s National Arts Festival in Grahamstown a fresh vibe and energy, and drove a “modest but important” increase in attendance, according to Festival CEO Tony Lankester. “We’re happy that we managed to show some growth in what

Forgotten Angle is 2018 recipient of Tambo Award

Published on August 2, 2018

The Forgotten Angle Theatre Collaborative receives the 2018 National Arts Festival Oliver and Adelaide Tambo Human Rights Award  The Forgotten Angle Theatre Collaborative (FATC) has been announced as the recipient of the National Arts Festival’s Oliver and Adelaide Tambo Human Rights Award, sponsored by the Embassy of the Netherlands. Jan Huesken, Deputy Ambassador of the Netherlands Embassy,

Sanda Mankayi, calm in the eye of the storm

Published on July 13, 2018

Sanda Mankayi is in recovery! With this year’s Festival now being wrapped up, she took a moment to share what she’s learnt after stepping into the shoes of Fringe Manager while Zikhona Nweba has been away on maternity leave. How long have you been at NAF and what is your official title? I have been

…and that’s a wrap on #NAF18

Published on July 11, 2018

NAF Executive Producer ASHRAF JOHAARDIEN reflects on his experience of the unruly, fabulous celebration of the arts that is the National Arts Festival All the world is a stage And everyone has their part But how was I to know which way the story’d go How was I to know you’d break You’d break my

Students unflinching in tackling gender at NAF

Published on July 10, 2018

Much of the work performed on the Student Festival at this year’s National Arts Festival demonstrated that students are grappling with the politics of gender. This is the second consecutive year that the Student Festival was integrated into the Fringe, giving students a realistic experience of performing at the Festival. Motlatji Ditodi of the student advisory

Ovation Awards celebrate fresh talent at 2018 Festival

Published on July 9, 2018

  [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”] [/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”] [/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid”

Latest Ovation Award winners at #NAF18

Published on July 7, 2018

You’re invited! Please join us – and the artists and producers – to find out who has won SILVER and GOLD Standard Bank Ovation Awards tonight (Saturday) at 11pm, Fountain Court at the Monument. Corné and Twakkie will be your hosts Artistic innovation, excellence, the exploration of new performance styles and the courage to open new

Today’s line-up at the Sundowner Concert

Published on July 7, 2018

As the sun sets over Makhanda, voices rise inside the Monument… Every evening, between 17:00 and 18:00, you can catch the best of the Festival Fringe when artists perform short excerpts of their performances to those packed into the Fountain Foyer for the Sundowner Concert. It’s a true mix of what is on offer at

Extra shows, cancellations and changes

Published on July 6, 2018

Updated: Saturday 7 July 12:20 While the National Arts Festival team makes every effort to ensure the information in the programme is correct, changes to schedules, cancellations and additions are ongoing. Please note that the performance information on the website and the NAF18 app should be considered the most up to date. Find out which

Remixing the street parade: all you need to know

Published on July 6, 2018

The ninth annual Street Parade will be held on the final weekend of the National Arts Festival, signalling the closing of the 44th Festival and celebrating the possibilities that will inspire the next. With the theme Remixing the Parade, this year’s parade is a broad-based community celebration with giant puppets, stilt-walkers, marching bands and street

Festival Travel & Stay packages on offer

Published on July 3, 2018

Come and enjoy the last weekend at the National Arts Festival. We’ve put together some special offers which include luxury accommodation and free tickets. Limited availability so first-come, first-served. Book by emailing our Travel Desk on travel@nationalartsfestival.co.za. Only email bookings will be accepted. Offer 1 – Two nights at Colonel Graham Guesthouse Arrive Fri 6 July

PHOTOS: Fun at the new Village Green Fair

Published on June 28, 2018

Our social media wrangler MICHELLE HODGKINSON took her camera along when she visited the new Village Green Fair on opening day at its new home at Victoria Girls’ High School in Beaufort Street – and this is what she saw… All images are free to reuse. Please credit Michelle Hodgkinson. If you would like high-res

Festival ‘gives meaning to SA’s constitutional principles’

Published on June 28, 2018

The National Arts Festival has opened amid a joyful Eastern Cape celebration at Grahamstown’s Festival hub, The Monument, at an event on Wednesday evening that also noted the centenary years of home-born legends Nelson Mandela and Albertina Sisulu. Minister of Arts and Culture Nathi Mthethwa reminded Festival-goers that the National Arts Festival remained a preserve

There are no silences here: curators on 2018 programme

Published on June 27, 2018

The works on the Curated Programme at this year’s National Arts Festival give a vivid, multi-textured impression of our complex local reality, writes Artistic Committee Chair BRETT BAILEY The Curated Programme is the core of the Main Programme of the National Arts Festival. From the open call for works submitted for consideration, each of the

Team Amaz!ng is ready to welcome you

Published on June 26, 2018

Da-da-da, da-da-da Da-da-da-da-da, da-da-da, da-da, da Da-da-da-da-da Da-da-da, da-da-da Da-da-da-da-da, da-da-da, da-da, da Da-da-da-da-da – Michael, G. (2003). Amazing. [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][CD] Sony BMG. In much the same way I prefer not to swim

Top 5: Gopala Davies shares his must-see shows

Published on June 25, 2018

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”] We asked actor and director GOPALA DAVIES what he’s looking most forward to seeing at #NAF18 put your heart under your feet…and walk/To Elu  – Steven Cohen is a South African artist who

June 16: the other boy in the photograph

Published on June 24, 2018

Photographer Robert Frank is quoted as saying that, “There is one thing the photograph must contain, the humanity of the moment.” Using Sam Nzima’s iconic photo of the 1976 Soweto uprising as a point of departure, Executive Producer ASHRAF JOHAARDIEN contemplates the power of images in the work of photojournalist TJ Lemon on show at

Thandi Ntuli: the disciple of cool

Published on June 20, 2018

   ‘A world without music would be like walking in a grey world, difficult to get through. I think art helps us get through some of the difficult things.’ Thandi Ntuli, the 2018 Standard Bank Young Artist for Jazz, is a leading pianist and composer among a rich cadre of South Africa’s upcoming jazz musicians.

Grahamstown community pulls together to prepare

Published on June 20, 2018

The 44th National Arts Festival will open on 28 June and the citizens of Grahamstown have rolled up their sleeves to get the town ready for a stream of visitors to the annual arts gathering. [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left”

Catch Naledi award winners at the Festival

Published on June 19, 2018

The National Arts Festival is the premier showcase of the best theatre in the country – and audiences can look forward to some award-winning experiences in Grahamstown this year. Mike van Graan‘s play WHEN SWALLOWS CRY, which will be performed at the National Arts Festival, was the top theatre winner at the Naledi Awards ceremony

Celebrating 30, 20 and 10 years on the Fringe

Published on June 17, 2018

They are the “staatmakers” of the Fringe at the National Arts Festival – the ones audiences rely on year after year for sure-fire entertainment. This year – the 44th edition of the Festival – marks three anniversaries on the Fringe: 30 years of the Raiders series, 20 years for the creator of the Butlers comedy

Dutch ensemble to present world premiere

Published on June 16, 2018

Asko|Schönberg, the leading music ensemble for new music in the Netherlands, will present the world premiere of Circus Schönberg
 at the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown on 28 and 29 June. A show, a lecture, a performance, a conversation, the performers will introduce audiences to the exciting and diverse world of 20th century music. [fusion_builder_container

Uncovering hidden narratives in (South) Africa

Published on June 12, 2018

Artistic Committee Member and curator of the Visual Art programme ERNESTINE WHITE-MIFETU says this year’s selection touches on all the different aspects of the lived experiences of being human.   At the core of the Visual and Performance Art selections this year – under the broad theme of Voices and Silences – is the desire

WATCH: Just get to the Festival and watch shows

Published on June 12, 2018

We caught up with producer, comedian and TV presenter SIV NGESI at Cape Town’s Alexander Bar in the build-up to the National Arts Festival. A Festival veteran, he shares his tips on getting the best out of your visit to Grahamstown. We certainly agree with him when he says, “The tickets are so inexpensive. Just

New in 2018: talks to unleash the power of ideas

Published on June 12, 2018

Executive Producer ASHRAF JOHAARDIEN says this year’s Film and Ideas platform will present a diverse and robust programme that aims to challenge and inspire audiences [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”] [/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=””

Kate Davies, the keystone of the Festival

Published on June 11, 2018

KATE DAVIES has been working for the National Arts Festival in various roles since 1996 – we think someone should give her a medal (or buy her a Bells!). As Festival Manager, Kate is the keystone that holds it all together, liaising between artists, the public and staff members – an expert at calmly juggling

Musa Hlatshwayo: exploring black male identity

Published on June 11, 2018

‘This is an opportunity to create and stage work that will hopefully address the sociopolitical ills that we are currently going through, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal, without forgetting to celebrate and embrace that which we are successfully achieving and thriving for as South Africans.’ Dancer, choreographer and performing artist Musa Hlatshwayo has received the Standard Bank

Creativate curator tells us what it’s all about

Published on June 11, 2018

Toby Shapshak is the co-curator of the inaugural Creativate Digital Arts Festival, which runs from 28 June to 1 July. British Airways’ HIGH LIFE magazine interviewed him about this festival-within-the-Festival ART HAS ALWAYS BEEN MADE… with the materials of the day. For caveman, it was a burnt stick on a stone wall. For generations of

Young director tells her story of student protests

Published on June 9, 2018

Upcoming playwright and Fleur du Cap nominee Nwabisa Plaatjie brings her deeply personal story 23 YEARS, A MONTH AND 7 DAYS, which is set against the backdrop of the 2015 #RhodesMustFall and #FeesMustFall movements, to the Fringe at the 2018 National Arts Festival in Grahamstown. Plaatjie graduated from the University of Cape Town in 2015. The

Amazing Stages to ignite Village Green Fair

Published on June 9, 2018

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the first Craft Fair at the Festival… and we’re using the occasion by giving it an overhaul, and welcoming a new title sponsor. So come and visit the Standard Bank Village Green in our new home at Victoria Girls’ High School, on the corner of Beaufort and Somerset streets. There is

New in 2018: Curated Spaces at the Monument

Published on June 8, 2018

This year, for the first time, the National Arts Festival will be hosting curated exhibitions at the Monument. The purpose of this initiative is to provide a platform for curated exhibitions in one of the main Festival centres, while bridging the space between the Fringe and Main art programmes. The exhibitions, which have been curated by Carmen

New in 2018: learn new skills in our art workshops

Published on June 8, 2018

Visitors to the National Arts Festival this year are being given the opportunity to roll up their sleeves and get creative with a new series of art classes that form part of the Visual Art programme for the first time this year. Curated by Carmen Ford and the National Arts Festival, the series of classes

Rayi plays her part in Arts Festival role

Published on May 29, 2018

From delivering impeccable performances in the many diverse roles she has played on stages since she was a puppy in a Grade 4 play to being the Opera House’s artistic manager, Nelson Mandela Bay actor Nobesuthu Rayi is now firmly ensconced as associate producer at the National Arts Festival. By ZAMANDULO MALONDE KwaMagxaki’s Rayi joined the

Fearless, funny, charming and daring: the Fringe in 2018

Published on May 29, 2018

Fringe festivals – the playground of the independent, original artist – continue to be a vital force in global arts, as evidenced by the massive crowds drawn annually to international fringe festivals in Edinburgh, Adelaide, New York and Brighton. In South Africa, the well-established National Arts Festival’s Fringe is a unique open access platform, giving

Top 5: Director Jade Bowers picks must-see shows

Published on May 25, 2018

Director and theatre maker Jade Bowers, the 2016 Standard Bank Young Artist, will be bringing JUNGFRAU to the Main at this year’s Festival. We asked her what she’s most looking forward to seeing at #NAF18… Jemma Kahn’s THE BORROW PIT – Always love Jemma – the way she incorporates the visual art aspects into her performance is

Mary Watson’s JungFrau: from page to stage

Published on May 25, 2018

Mary Watson’s short story JungFrau will be brought to life on stage in Germany and South Africa this year, adapted by Ameera Patel and directed by Jade Bowers. Based on the Caine prize-winning short story from Mary Watson’s collection called Moss (published 2004), JUNGFRAU is a performance work about families and the secrets that they

Planning your trip: finding accommodation

Published on May 23, 2018

A wide range of accommodation and hospitality services are available in Grahamstown – from 5-star accommodation to more rustic backpacking and camping. Full details on hospitality providers registered with the Festival are available in our hospitality Travel & Stay 2018 brochure, which you can download here. The hospitality booklet is not an exhaustive list as

SA’s oldest jazz festival incubates new music

Published on May 22, 2018

Magical and creative musical collaborations will come into sharp focus at the 2018 Standard Bank Jazz Festival, which runs in Grahamstown from 28 June to 7 July during the National Arts Festival. As the oldest jazz festival on the African continent, SBJF 2018 will see a hot line-up of musicians from around the world collaborating

Creativate: digital playground for artists

Published on May 15, 2018

The National Arts Festival has announced a programme of work that is “inspiring, innovative, jaw-dropping and attention grabbing” for the inaugural Creativate Digital Arts Festival, which will run from 28 June – 1 July in Grahamstown as part of the National Arts Festival. “Creativate seeks to explore the space where creativity, innovation and technology converge. It’s a playground for

Award-winning works on Arena at NAF18

Published on May 14, 2018

The National Arts Festival’s Arena is a special section of the programme reserved for works that have previously won a Standard Bank Ovation Award, a Cape Town Fringe Fresh Award, or a recognised international Fringe award. “While the Main programme is the holy grail and the Fringe is where you take a leap faith, the

Amazing moments – unveiling our new advert

Published on May 7, 2018

We’re delighted to present our brand-new Festival TV ad – inspired by a commercial produced by our friends at Indy Fringe and Fringe NYC. This version has a uniquely South African feel and, we hope, captures some of the variety and excitement of the National Arts Festival. See you on 28 June! With special thanks

Special offer for Standard Bank customers

Published on May 7, 2018

If you are a Standard Bank customer, you may qualify for a 20% discount on your tickets when you pay with your card. How it works This offer only applies to customers who use their Standard Bank card to pay for their tickets. You will be able to check that you qualify at checkout. Only

Three gems not to miss at #NAF18

Published on May 6, 2018

The National Arts Festival is about so much more than ‘just theatre’. We highlight three shows we don’t want you to miss in Grahamstown this year [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][MUSIC] The Odeion String Ensemble in

Nobesuthu Rayi, supreme multitasker

Published on May 5, 2018

Nobesuthu Rayi is Associate Producer at the National Arts Festival. Last year was her first Festival – but she’s always made it look like she’s been doing this her whole life. We asked her some questions about her job, which is a masterclass in multitasking… What exactly do you do in your job? As an

Music 2018: tribute to curiosity, collaboration

Published on May 5, 2018

Artistic Committee Member for Music Samson Diamond says 2018 will be an important musical year for the Eastern Cape at the National Arts Festival, which runs from 28 June to 8 July in Grahamstown – a fitting focus for audiences as the country marks the centenary year of the birth of Mandela in his home province. WATCH:

Loss, memory at heart of Performance Art programme

Published on May 5, 2018

Loss, memorialisation and women are prevalent on the Performance Art programme at this year’s National Arts Festival, which runs from 28 June to 8 July. Standard Bank Young Artist for Performance Art 2018 Chuma Sopotela will present INDLULAMTHI. ‘Indluamthi’ is the isiXhosa word for a giraffe but, in direct translation, it also means ‘the ones who are

Visual Art at 2018 – Giving silence a voice

Published on May 4, 2018

This year’s National Arts Festival Visual Art programme marks ‘quite a change’ from traditional representational art forms – so there’s photography, performance intertwined with film, for example, explains Ernestine White-Mifetu, Artistic Committee Member for Visual Art and the co-curator (with Lara Bye) of the Performance Art programme. WATCH: ‘The programme touches on all the different aspects of

From 0 to 44: At the frontlines of change

Published on May 4, 2018

Since its inception in 1974, the National Arts Festival has always served to hold a mirror up to society. The way in which it has done that may have shifted over the years, but its purpose in doing that has remained constant, writes Executive Producer Ashraf Johaardien In his reflection on the 2017 National Arts

Dylan Valley, reimagining film in South Africa

Published on May 4, 2018

Dylan Valley, an award-winning documentary filmmaker, is a member of the Artistic Committee and the lead curator of this year’s Film programme, which is centred around the curatorial prompt, VOICES AND SILENCE. WATCH: ‘Undoing the idea of the great South African film that needs to be made’ Q: Your interest in hip-hop music was the

Jemma Kahn: the pay-off of taking risks

Published on May 3, 2018

We asked theatre maker Jemma Kahn, this year’s Standard Bank Young Artist for Theatre, what she’s been working on for this year’s National Arts Festival. This is what she said… Francis Bacon and Lucian Freud – the two British painters on whom my new play, THE BORROW PIT, is based – are referred to repeatedly

Dance – an engaging drawcard in 2018

Published on May 3, 2018

So, what can audiences look forward to on the Main Dance programme this July? “Strong, critical voices and a look at issues of identity and what it means to be a contemporary Africa citizen,” says David April, a member of the Artistic Committee and the lead curator of the Dance programme. “The themes are current,

Maxing the fun of the Festival for littlies

Published on May 3, 2018

Take the stress out of bringing your children to Grahamstown – the Children’s Arts Festival offers a creative arts programme specially designed for primary school children that runs from 28 June to 7 July. You can drop your children off at St Andrew’s Preparatory School (the venue for the Children’s Arts Festival) at 9am for

‘Challenging works that speak to the times’

Published on May 2, 2018

Many of the works on this year’s MAIN THEATRE programme at #NAF18 cross and blur genres, and make interesting use of non-traditional theatrical spaces. WATCH: ‘An incredible reflection of the work that is happening out there’ – Artistic Committee Member LARA BYE Theatre productions you can look forward to seeing at the National Arts Festival

Preferential booking opens for Artbucks members

Published on May 2, 2018

Preferential early booking for the 2018 National Arts Festival opens today for Artbucks members, those customers who are signed up to the Festival’s loyalty programme. The 2018 National Arts Festival runs from 28 June to 8 July this year and, with nearly 3 000 performances crammed into 11 days, there’s plenty to keep audiences inspired and

What is the Half Price Hut?

Published on May 1, 2018

The Half Price Hut gives Festival-goers the chance to pick up tickets to the hottest shows, at the last minute, for half the face value. Every day, artists make a limited number of tickets available at a 50% discount for the next performance of their show. Half -price tickets will be announced the evening before they go

Creativate18 – the artistry of technology

Published on May 1, 2018

The Creativate Digital Arts Festival at the 2018 National Arts Festival is a tech-meets-design festival-within-the-Festival that aims to showcase some of the best thinkers and creatives in their fields. Creativate is a playground for artists who work in the spaces where technology and the arts converge, and the audiences who are inspired by that approach.

Jazztown 2018: mining the past to unearth music’s gems

Published on April 30, 2018

The who’s who of jazz will descend on Grahamstown this July for the 31st Standard Bank Jazz Festival, which runs concurrently to the National Arts Festival. Taking place from 28 June until 7 July, this year’s programme is a celebration of jazz’s greatest legacies – reimagined for the future with an inspired twist by a league

Ticket info: How, where and when to book

Published on April 30, 2018

The countdown to this year’s National Arts Festival has truly begun, with full bookings opening nationwide on 7 May. Here’s our quickstart guide to booking tickets – how to pay for them, where to pick them up from, and even a few tips on saving a few bucks… How to book Once you have browsed

Young Artists prepare to take the wrappers off

Published on April 29, 2018

Each year the Festival celebrates the work of the recipients of the Standard Bank Young Artist Awards, with each artist presenting exciting new work that will premiere at the National Arts Festival. Here’s what you can look forward to in Grahamstown in 2018: Standard Bank Young Artist for Theatre 2018 Jemma Kahn presents THE BORROW PIT

Nyamza brings work bang up to date for 2018

Published on April 28, 2018

Trailblazing dancer and choreographer Mamela Nyamza takes the title of Featured Artist in 2018. The Featured Artist is recognised for their contribution to the South African cultural narrative and is invited to bring multiple works to the Festival. Nyamza will present three works, including a brand-new piece, BLACK PRIVILEGE. Presented by the National Arts Festival, co-commissioned by Ruhrtriennale (Germany) and

Amazing ride ahead: 2018 Main Programme revealed

Published on April 25, 2018

The line-up for this year’s National Arts Festival Main Programme extends an invitation to audiences to join a thrilling journey that travels through the established and familiar to brand-new, uncharted creative territories. “The Festival deliberately juxtaposes high concept with entertainment for all because it is precisely the tension between those two poles of artistic expression

Suzanne Vega set for Grahamstown shows

Published on April 23, 2018

The National Arts Festival announced today that it will be welcoming acclaimed singer-songwriter Suzanne Vega to Grahamstown, to present a series of ‘up close and personal’ concerts in July. Vega is, according to Biography Magazine “widely regarded as one of the most brilliant songwriters of her generation.” Her debut record, Marlene on the Wall, was

Holiday ideas: extending the Festival experience

Published on April 19, 2018

The National Arts Festival is an annual feast of theatre, dance, performance art, music, visual art and more and can be packaged into a rewarding Eastern Cape holiday. Here are some ideas for what you can get up to in the Eastern Cape before or after the Festival, which runs from 28 June to 8

Tickets to this year’s gala concert, ballet now on sale

Published on April 16, 2018

The FESTIVAL GALA CONCERT and ‘the ballet’ – ROMEO & JULIET this year – are the events that traditionally sell out fast, so we’re opening bookings early to give you a chance to secure your tickets. To book for the Festival Gala Concert, go here To book for ROMEO & JULIET, go here The Festival Gala

Early Bird Alert: select shows open for booking

Published on April 5, 2018

The National Arts Festival is offering those planning on travelling to Grahamstown the chance to snap up tickets to select shows before the full programme goes on sale on 7 May, with its ‘Early Bird’ booking promotion. From today, a trio of shows goes on sale, with more being added over the next few weeks. The

[WATCH] Works in progress with Igshaan Adams

Published on April 5, 2018

We caught up with Igshaan Adams, this year’s Standard Bank Young Artist for Visual Art, at his recent exhibition at Blank Projects in Woodstock, Cape Town. He shared vignettes about where he comes from, how he works – and the confidence and change that have come from winning the Young Artist Award.  Note: You

Arena to showcase fresh voices and new narratives

Published on April 2, 2018

The Arena showcases the work of winners of the National Arts Festival’s Standard Bank Ovation Awards. Here are three shows on this showcase programme in 2018: The Xhosa Chronicles This production reimagines a time of independence and pride, breaks the hold of negative colonial attitudes and stereotypes about African incapacity and contributes new narratives about the roles

South African theatre is outfoxing challenging times

Published on April 2, 2018

National Arts Festival Executive Producer Ashraf Johaardien says this year’s programme demonstrates that South African theatre is thriving, despite the slings and arrows of the box office bottom line and other challenges The nature of the play in performance is ephemeral, leaving no actual record of the event. The archival remains of a night at the

Sneak peeks: music, mourning and magic

Published on April 2, 2018

Here are another three works on the Main line-up at this year’s National Arts Festival – a dance work that explores African identity; a performance work that plumbs loss and mourning; and an exhibition of photographs celebrating 20 years of the Dance Umbrella. Note that Early Bookings open on 2 April, with new shows going on sale every week until full bookings open on

Lara Bye on this year’s Main theatre programme

Published on March 31, 2018

Artistic Committee Member Lara Bye the lead curator of the theatre component of the 2018 National Arts Festival. We had a quick chat to her recently about what audiences can look forward to this year. The Main theatre programme in 2018 is an “incredible reflection of what is happening out there”, she says. There is a lot of cross-disciplinary work,

New initiatives to freshen up 2018 Arts Festival

Published on March 29, 2018

Grahamstown’s annual gathering of creative and artistic talent is readying itself for a reboot as the National Arts Festival reveals some fresh features for this year’s event, which takes place from 28 June to 8 July. Creativate Digital Arts Festival As the breakneck evolution of technology spills over into all facets of life, artists are absorbing

Akhona Daweti – master of the Box Office

Published on March 29, 2018

Akhona Daweti is the Festival’s Box Office Manager and, with early bird bookings just around the corner, he’s gearing up for the fun to start again – getting his staff trained, setting up computer terminals, loading events and making sure that the seating in the 60-odd venues is correctly captured on the Ticket Hut booking

First step: find a place to stay

Published on March 29, 2018

The first step in planning your trip to Grahamstown is securing somewhere to stay. Festival Manager Kate Davies shares some tips on accommodation in Grahamstown Coming to Grahamstown for the Festival is an adventure – not only is there the excitement of the shows, art and crafts, but there’s also the unpredictability of the winter weather,

Early bookings to open for #NAF18

Published on March 23, 2018

Tickets to sought-after shows on the Main programme at this year’s National Arts Festival will be on sale before bookings officially open on 7 May. From 2 April, we will be giving you a taste of some of what will be on offer in Grahamstown between 28 June and 8 July by releasing tickets to some must-see shows –

Call to participate in new digital festival

Published on March 14, 2018

A brand-new event will be launched at the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown this year – the Creativate Digital Arts Festival, presented by Standard Bank. It will run for the first four days of the Festival, from 28 June to 1 July 2018. We are calling on artists working on projects that play in the space where technology

Shows confirmed for #NAF18… so far!

Published on March 13, 2018

As the anticipation builds for this year’s National Arts Festival, which runs from 28 June to 8 July, we’ll be sharing the shows confirmed for the Main programme. We will be updating this list regularly, so make sure you visit our platforms daily to find out the latest. For an insider’s look at the programme, subscribe to

Subscribe to FEST44 – news, behind the scenes, interviews

Published on March 5, 2018

Welcome to FEST44, a new publication brought to you by the National Arts Festival team FEST44 marks the 44th edition of the National Arts Festival – yip, we’re keeping it fresh even though we’re that old! We’re hoping this magazine becomes a space for artists, audiences and producers participating in the National Arts Festival to

The Arena – a magical place of discovery

Published on March 1, 2018

While the Main programme is the holy grail and the Fringe is where you take a leap of faith, the Arena at the National Arts Festival occupies a liminal space where new voices are amplified, writes Tracey Saunders There is no absence of noise currently. Voices are often raised and come at us from every corner: screens, large and small; online and

Sneak peeks: two Canadian gems and a (Little) Prince

Published on March 1, 2018

On the Main programme at the National Arts Festival this July are two Canadian plays, presented in partnership with the High Commission of Canada, as well as a charming adaption ofAntoine de Saint-Exupéry’s timeless tale, The Little Prince.  Wajdi Mouawad’s ALPHONSE  Translated by Shelley Tepperman. Directed and Performed by Alon Nashman (KAFKA AND SON). Presented in partnership

NAF reveals first elements of 2018 line-up

Published on February 28, 2018

The first shows of the 2018 National Arts Festival, which will be held in Grahamstown from 28 July to 8 June, are being announced now that selections have been finalised by Executive Producer Ashraf Johaardien and the Artistic Committee. Details of shows selected for the Main programme are being revealed as confirmations come in. “We received

Zikhona Monaheng, Queen of the Fringe

Published on February 27, 2018

The Fringe Manager of the National Arts Festival, Zikhona Monaheng – known by everyone as Zee – is our one in a zillion and a cherished treasure in the Festival Office. Always calm, always smiling, always ‘making a plan’ – Zee is the go-to person for all Fringe artists. Completely unfazed by the weird and

Samson Diamond, responding to SA’s cultural zeitgeist

Published on February 27, 2018

Violinist (and a former Standard Bank Young Artist) Samson Diamond is the lead curator for Classical Music on the Main programme of the 2018 National Arts Festival, which will be held in Grahamstown from 28 June to 8 July.  Works for the Main programme are selected from an annual open call for submissions by an Artistic Committee, comprising experts in their

Using the element of surprise to shift paradigms

Published on February 27, 2018

In an interview by Judith Hartstang for Festival Theaterformen, National Arts Festival Executive Producer Ashraf Johaardien shares why he wants to stretch and challenge audiences How does one make the performance happen to both the actors and to the audience? How do we go beyond the rigid dichotomy of active performers in the work and passive voyeurs

Your Festival in 2018 – dates to diarise

Published on February 26, 2018

If you want to get on top of your timeline for planning a 2018 trip to the National Arts Festival, here are the dates to flag. 2 April – The first of a select range of must-see shows will go live for booking. Keep an eye on our social media feeds – and make sure you stay

Chuma Sopotela sets the stage for new rituals

Published on February 26, 2018

Standard Bank Young Artist Chuma Sopotela’s journey into performance art was driven by her disillusionment with the mainstream scene in Cape Town, and her love of knowledge, justice and education, writes Kgomotso Moncho-Maripane Chuma Sopotela, the 2018 Standard Bank Young Artist for Performance Art, has an innate intensity that elevates her craft to an inimitable standard. Always

Sneak peeks: Hamlet, Jungfrau and Steven Cohen

Published on February 1, 2018

We’ll be revealing the jewels of the Main programme in the build-up to the National Arts Festival, which opens on 28 June. Here are just three spectacular performances that you can look forward to this year: [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no”

David April, embracing dance in South Africa

Published on January 31, 2018

The Main programme of the National Arts Festival is selected from an annual open call for submissions by an Artistic Committee, comprising experts in their fields who give input into creating a programme that is reflective of South Africa, aiming to challenge as well as entertain new and established audiences. A member of the Artistic Committee,

‘An artist’s duty is to reflect the times’

Published on January 30, 2018

Dancer and choreographer Mamela Nyamza is this year’s National Arts Festival Featured Artist, an annual recognition that celebrates and showcases artists who contribute to South Africa’s national discourse on race, class or gender in a significant way. This is the first time a dancer and choreographer has been recognised in this way. Read more: Mamela Nyamza

Tuning in to Guy Buttery’s global language

Published on January 30, 2018

It is the first time since 1981 that the prestigious Standard Bank Young Artist Award for Music has has been given to a non-classical artist, writes Estelle Sinkins KEEPING the news secret that he had won the coveted Standard Bank Young Artist Award for Music is one the hardest things that Guy Buttery has had to do. “They told me

Remembering Hugh Masekela, jazz legend

Published on January 24, 2018

We mourn with the rest of South Africa the passing of one of South Africa’s greatest musicians – Hugh Masekela. The images on this page were shot at the National Arts Festival in 2014 by CuePix chief photographer Harold Gess, who attended Masekela’s concert in a packed Guy Butler Theatre. The trumpeter, who was 75 at the time,

Mamela Nyamza is 2018’s Featured Artist

Published on January 8, 2018

Each year, the National Arts Festival celebrates the work of a Featured Artist – a South African artist who has consistently exhibited ground-breaking work and exceptional talent, helping to shape the arts narrative of the country. The Featured Artist is showcased at the Festival through previous and new works forming a snapshot of their career

Wanted: Festival pop-up galleries for 2018

Published on December 19, 2017

With the move of Village Green to the Victoria Girls’ fields in 2018, the National Arts Festival is looking at various strategies to enhance the experience for both visitors and Grahamstown residents. One of these is a accommodating the many visual art exhibitions in the areas close to the Green. We are looking for “pop-up spaces” between High

Standard Bank ensures the Festival moves forward

Published on November 2, 2017

Standard Bank has renewed their sponsorship of the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown, one of the country’s longest and highest profile sponsorship investments, for a further three years. Standard Bank’s partnership with the iconic event will run until the end of 2020. “Our partnership extends back to 1984 and has endured ever since – most

Meet the 2018 Standard Bank Young Artists

Published on November 1, 2017

Chuma Sopotela, Guy Buttery, Igshaan Adams, Jemma Kahn, Musa Hlatshwayo and Thandi Ntuli are South Africa’s next breakthrough creatives Meet the 2018 Standard Bank Young Artist Award recipients. These are six of the brightest young creative talents working and living in South Africa today. Now in its 36th year, the Standard Bank Young Artist (SBYA) awards are

Sneak peeks: Hamlet, Jungfrau and Steven Cohen

Published on October 30, 2017

We’ll be revealing the jewels of the curated Main Programme in the build-up to the National Arts Festival, which opens on 28 June. Here are just three spectacular performances that you can look forward to this year: [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no”

Ovation Award winners at #NAF17

Published on July 8, 2017

Artistic innovation, excellence, the exploration of new performance styles and the courage to open new conversation through the arts underpin the motivation for the winners of the Standard Bank Ovation Award. These are the latest daily winners, selected by a jury of critics, journalists and theatre makers from hundreds of plays on the Fringe. Saturday 8 July

New home for Village Green in 2018

Published on July 7, 2017

From 2018 the Village Green Craft Market at the National Arts Festival will have a new home. The market, which hosts about 300 traders, crafters, food vendors and artists during the course of the 11-day Festival, will move off Rhodes University’s campus to the playing fields of Victoria Girls High School in Beaufort Street. “The

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: 7 July

Published on July 6, 2017

While we make every effort to ensure the information in the programme is correct, changes to schedules, cancellations and additions are ongoing. The website and app carry the latest information about events. Find out more about the NAF app and download it here Here are the latest updates to make note of before you head

GALLERY: Music at the National Arts Festival

Published on July 6, 2017

From packed-to-the-rafter houses singing every word to every song (The Soil – we loved you!) to sizzling hot collaborations at the Standard Bank Jazz Festival, music has been one of the hottest tickets of the Festival this year. Photographer Harold Gess got up close and personal with the musicians performing in Jazztown this year. Find @haroldgess on

GALLERY: Sabamnye noMendi

Published on July 6, 2017

Those who attended Mandla Mbotwe’s Sabamnye noMendi were left in no doubt that they’d seen something extraordinary. In songs, dance, pictures, film and multimedia the audience who had gathered at night at Grahamstown’s Botanical Gardens were taken on a journey through time, spaces and recaptured memories to repossess the timeless, undefined period of the story of the sinking

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: 6 July

Published on July 6, 2017

While we make every effort to ensure the information in the programme is correct, changes to schedules, cancellations and additions are ongoing. The website and app carry the latest information about events. Find out more about the NAF app and download it here Here are the latest updates to make note of before you head

Sabamnye no Mendi: Dialogues with the drowned

Published on July 5, 2017

One hundred years after the sinking of the SS Mendi on a foggy night at the height of World War I, the spirits of the dead will be honoured in a multimedia live installation to be staged in a venue surrounded by trees, writes ALEX DODD There is a condition known all too well by

GALLERY: Best of the Fest (Part 1)

Published on July 4, 2017

All photographs by Jan Potgieter. His passion for performing arts photography relates to his love for photographing people. He says he has always loved capturing fleeting emotions in an image. The stage – where drama, music and dance is performed – provides the ideal opportunity to capture such moments… [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=””

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: 5 July

Published on July 4, 2017

While we make every effort to ensure the information in the programme is correct, changes to schedules, cancellations and additions are ongoing. The website and app carry the latest information about events. Find out more about the NAF app and download it here Here are the latest updates to make note of before you head

Why the Ovation Awards are a big deal

Published on July 4, 2017

You know that feeling when, as a performance ends, you are moved to jump to your feet and applaud until your hands hurt? That’s the sense that Standard Bank Ovation Award winners inspire. With more than 200 premier productions on the Fringe programme this year, the panel of judges have their work cut out for them. Running list

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: 3 July

Published on July 3, 2017

While we make every effort to ensure the information in the programme is correct, changes to schedules, cancellations and additions are ongoing. The website and app carry the latest information about events. Find out more about the NAF app and download it here Here are the latest updates to make note of before you head

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: 2 July

Published on July 2, 2017

Update: The Neo Muyango Trio at DSG today (2 July) at 12:00. Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond our control, the trio will not be able perform at the Festival. We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience. If you have already bought a ticket, you may exchange it for a ticket to Soli(d)arity, Neo Muyango’s solo performance

‘What I learned’ series – new at #NAF17

Published on July 1, 2017

Starting on Saturday 1 July at the National Arts Festival is a new event on the Think!Fest programme called What I Learned From… This daily event features three to four speakers presenting a short five-minute story on a subject of their choice. The line-up of speakers is eclectic, so expect anything from “What I learned from meeting

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: 1 July

Published on June 30, 2017

While we make every effort to ensure the information in the programme is correct, changes to schedules, cancellations and additions are ongoing. The website and app carry the latest information about events. Find out more about the NAF app and download it here Here are the latest updates to make note of before you head

GALLERY: Dada Masilo’s Giselle

Published on June 30, 2017

Dada Masilo and her cast have been performing to sold-out audiences this Festival. Her feminist take on the classic ballet Giselle has left audiences gasping. Find out more about this production After seeing the performance in Johannesburg, arts writer Robyn Sassen wrote: If you’ve ever questioned the true value of the arts in this world, you

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: 30 June

Published on June 30, 2017

While we make every effort to ensure the information in the programme is correct, changes to schedules, cancellations and additions are ongoing. The website and app carry the latest information about events. Find out more about the NAF app and download it here Here are the latest updates to make note of before you head

Arts Festival shines a light through the gloom

Published on June 29, 2017

The spotlight was turned on the importance of the arts in South African society at the official opening ceremony of the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown on Wednesday. “The Festival is a national treasure in the hidden work it does in building the nation through the arts,” National Arts Festival CEO Tony Lankester said at

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: 29 June

Published on June 29, 2017

While we make every effort to ensure the information in the programme is correct, changes to schedules, cancellations and additions are ongoing. The website and app carry the latest information about events. Find out more about the NAF app and download it here Here are the latest updates to make note of before you head

Festival die-hards share their top tips

Published on June 27, 2017

Grahamstown residents and experienced Festival-goers share their inside tips on making the most out of #NAF17 [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”] Mary Birt has not missed a single Festival since its inception in 1974 Don’t book

Grahamstown lays out the red carpet

Published on June 26, 2017

Grahamstown is being draped in red, white and blue as it prepares to welcome thousands of visitors to this year’s National Arts Festival, which runs from 29 June to 9 July. This is the 43rd installment of the annual event, billed as Africa’s biggest and boldest celebration of the arts. Showcasing more than 700 shows

Fringe17: Reflecting the state of our nation

Published on June 22, 2017

By holding up a mirror to South Africa, artists on the Fringe programme offer audiences a chance to reflect as well as to escape, writes TRACEY SAUNDERS During the 1980s, the National Arts Festival was one of the few places where truth was spoken to power. In 2017, the born free generation is once again

Enjoy a one-stop theatrical experience

Published on June 22, 2017

With so many productions to chose from on the Fringe, you will be forgiven feeling overwhelmed. Fortunately, there’s a creative solution, writes TRACEY SAUNDERS This year, you can spend a full day in one venue where you’ll be able to sample great shows, food as well as a NAF ale – or two. The Cape Town

How do you read a play? Aloud, of course

Published on June 19, 2017

How do you read a play? Aloud is the answer. In much the same way a musical score can only really be fully appreciated when performed on the intended instruments, a play only truly comes to life when an actor speaks the lines. From the Kultcha Klub at Wits to the Actor’s Centre at the

Jazztown holds promise of rare musical dialogues

Published on June 16, 2017

When musical notes take flight at the Standard Bank Jazz Festival this July, it will be for much more than a merry musical celebration – this year’s programme seems curated with deeper ideas at its heart, writes PERCY MABANDU The line-up for the 2017 Standard Bank Jazz Festival in Grahamstown is at once locally rooted,

Festival gives visitors plenty of reasons to laugh

Published on June 15, 2017

Given the current climate in the country, South Africans are in dire need of a good laugh – and, thankfully, there’s no shortage of hilarity on the programme of this year’s National Arts Festival, which runs from 29 June to 9 July. Headlining the comedy bill is British ‘laughter master’ Stephen K Amos, who will be performing

International artists head to SA’s cultural mecca

Published on June 14, 2017

For 11 days Grahamstown will become the cultural mecca of South Africa when the National Arts Festival draws artists, dancers and musicians from around the world to perform on its stages from 29 June to 9 July. National Arts Festival Executive Producer Ashraf Johaardien says although it has been particularly tough to programme international work in

Tickling the senses at Think!Fest

Published on June 13, 2017

Think!Fest in 2017 is not only about giving you food for thought – it’s also about inspiring your senses – including your taste buds. For the first time, Think!Fest offers tastings as part of their menu – offering a first course of cherry peppers, jalapeños, patty pans and gourmet chutneys from Grahamstown’s Carara Agro; two

Our fab app will put AMAZ!NG in your pocket

Published on June 13, 2017

You can keep AMAZ!NG in your pocket by downloading the Festival’s 2017 mobile app. Free from both iOS and Android stores, you can use the app as a portable Festival planner, working out what to see and making bookings for tickets. Visitors to the National Arts Festival can carry their plans in their pocket with

Unearthing the past on the #NAF17 stage

Published on June 8, 2017

The National Arts Festival’s theatre programme is “a laboratory of work that reimagines history, exhumes ghosts, and questions our future in a way that unsettles and inspires”, says Executive Producer Ashraf Johaardien. Spearheading this vision is 2017 Standard Bank Young Artist for Theatre, Monageng ‘Vice’ Motshabi, whose work Ankobia unfolds in the future land of Pelodikgadile. In that land,

Be inspired by the French in Grahamstown

Published on June 7, 2017

A long-standing partner of the National Art’s Festival, the French Institute of South Africa (IFAS) will again bring French-inspired works to Grahamstown. Arthur Rimbaud, the ‘enfant terrible’ of French poetry, will be brought to life in The Alchemy of Words. The play focuses on Rimbaud’s short-lived poetry career and the profound impact it had on the

Enticing new work on the award winners’ playground

Published on June 7, 2017

‘The National Arts Festival’s Arena is a fast fix of edgy new work from some of the artists who are shaping a new generation of theatre,’ says National Arts Festival Executive Producer Ashraf Johaardien. With support from Business and Arts South Africa, this year’s Arena is a collection of spellbinding, thought-provoking pieces. The Arena is

Global viewing experience in Grahamstown

Published on June 7, 2017

The National Arts Festival will introduce the National Theatre Live digital experience to Grahamstown with the screening of two superb films, shot on stage in the UK: Simon Godwin’s direction of a joyous new production of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night with Tamsin Greig (Friday Night Dinner, Black Books, Episodes) as a transformed Malvolia and an ensemble cast that

Fabulous Festival fun for families

Published on June 7, 2017

Families are in for a treat at this year’s National Arts Festival with two new Family Fare venues bursting with fun – the new National English Literature Museuam (NELM) building at 25 Worcester Street boasts a profusion of activities for the young at heart, including two free daily stories read by actors and others in their beautiful

Navigating the National Arts Festival

Published on May 18, 2017

Arts lovers and Festival fans are grabbing their coffee, credit cards and calendars because the National Arts Festival’s 2017 programme is now online and open for booking at www.nationalartsfestival.co.za. Newcomers to the Festival may feel a little overwhelmed by the 700 productions on offer, so this is a short guide to navigating the programme. The

Book now for 11 days of Amaz!ng

Published on May 9, 2017

The 2017 National Arts Festival is just around the corner and we hope that you’re as excited as we are – it’s going to be another amazing year. Booking is now open, and so you can guarantee your place at the AMAZ!NG Festival from 29 June in Grahamstown. This year’s highlights include: The globe-trotting laughter

When Grahamstown becomes Jazztown

Published on May 4, 2017

The countdown to South Africa’s oldest and longest-running jazz festival has begun. Music lovers from across the continent will be taking their annual journey to the Standard Bank Jazz Festival in Grahamstown, which takes place from 29 June to 8 July. The Standard Bank Jazz Festival in Grahamstown incorporates the Standard Bank National Youth Jazz Festival.

Curious, furious and poetic dance line-up for 2017

Published on April 15, 2017

Bringing together different aesthetics, contexts and languages, the dance programme at this year’s National Arts Festival interrogates and celebrates questions of identity, culture, spirituality and sensuality. From brand-new works by well-known choreographers and dancers, to reinterpretations of classic works, the 2017 programme represents a “curious, furious and poetic game of different aesthetics, contexts and languages,

Festival’s music programme hits the right note

Published on April 7, 2017

It’s an exciting year for music on the Festival’s Main stages as Featured Artist Neo Muyanga leads the charge through a programme filled with tradition, innovation and experimentation. Muyanga’s solo work, Solid(T)Ary Work, promises a survey of the tradition of protest song in the global south: moving swiftly between the chanted chorales of Soweto and Salvador to

Grahamstown gets serious about comedy

Published on April 6, 2017

The National Arts Festival, which will run from 29 June to 9 July this year, is tearing up the comedy stage, starting with international comedian Stephen K Amos on the opening weekend. The globe-trotting laughter master will perform his new show WORLD FAMOUS on 2 and 3 July only. Book now for Stephen K Amos’

Expect the unexpected at National Arts Festival 2017

Published on April 3, 2017

South Africa’s artists, theatre makers and musicians are responding to the challenges of living in a country in flux with genre-busting work that is provocative, innovative, engaging and entertaining. Some of the best of these productions will be showcased at this year’s National Arts Festival, to be held in Grahamstown from 29 June to 9

Meet the 2017 Artistic Committee

Published on April 3, 2017

Behind the Main programme of the 2017 National Arts Festival, which will be held in Grahamstown from 29 June to 9 July, is a 20-member Artistic Committee, experts in their fields who have been invited to collaborate and give input into creating a programme that is reflective of South Africa, aiming to challenge as well

Get early bird tickets to select shows

Published on April 3, 2017

This year, for the first time ever, tickets to some of the hottest shows at this year’s National Arts Festival will be available before bookings officially open at the beginning of May. Every week from 4 April, we’ll be giving you a taste of what will be on offer in Grahamstown by releasing tickets early to

Make this the year to come to Grahamstown

Published on March 18, 2017

To avoid a big dose of Festival #FOMO, it’s time to start planning for a trip to South Africa’s biggest cultural and social celebration, the National Arts Festival, which will be held in Grahamstown from 29 June to 9 July. Spanning 11 days, the Festival attracts tens of thousands of visitors who buy around 220 000 tickets to

The Gruffalo struts on to Joburg stage

Published on March 9, 2017

After hugely successful runs in Cape Town and Port Elizabeth as well as an equally well-received holiday season in Port Alfred, the South African version of Tall Stories’ UK West End hit, The Gruffalo, opens on Tuesday 11 April at Auto & General Theatre on the Square in Sandton, Johannesburg. The Gruffalo is in town

Grahamstown to host 11 Days of Amazing in 2017

Published on March 2, 2017

The world’s cultural spotlight will fall once more on Grahamstown from 29 June to 9 July 2017 when the National Art’s Festival’s presents a “window into the soul” of South Africa’s artists with a varied and exciting programme. The Festival is an annual pilgrimage for artists and audiences wanting to immerse themselves in the many

Arts Journalism of the Year Award: all the winners

Published on November 28, 2016

The 2016 Arts Journalism of the Year Award winners were announced on Monday 28 November at a ceremony at Nando’s Central Kitchen in Johannesburg. A partnership between the National Arts Festival (NAF) and Business and Arts South Africa (BASA), these awards recognise excellence in journalism that explores and celebrates the arts and creativity across a number of

Deadline extended for Arts Journalism Awards

Published on October 6, 2016

The deadline for entry into the National Arts Festival/BASA Arts Journalism Awards has been extended to 10 October 2016 at 17h00. Submissions are invited from media and freelancers across all genres of work that reports and reflects on the arts. Any piece of published or broadcast work that covers the arts sector – either as

Enter now for the Arts Journalism Awards 2016

Published on August 31, 2016

Arts writers, broadcasters and photographers across traditional and online media are invited to submit work for consideration in the 2016 National Arts Festival/BASA Arts Journalism of the Year Awards. The awards recognise journalism that sparks and shapes conversations around the arts. “Insightful, critical commentary and intelligent review are essential to the sustainability of the arts and

NAF17: what we’re looking for

Published on August 29, 2016

In 2017, the Main programme of the National Arts Festival (29 June to 9 July 2017) will focus on the relationship between art and disruption: art as a disruptor of mainstream ways of thinking, and also art in response to disruptions of the status quo. We are looking for compelling, innovative and high-quality performances, exhibitions

Countdown to Main programme deadline

Published on August 9, 2016

Artists interested in taking part in South Africa’s National Arts Festival, which will be held from 29 June to 9 July 2017, have just weeks left to submit their proposals for the Main programme. The Festival is accepting proposals for work across all genres – theatre, dance, music, public art, installations, performance art and exhibitions. The

Ashraf Johaardien is NAF’s new Executive Producer

Published on July 14, 2016

[14 July 2016] – Playwright and Arts Administrator Ashraf Johaardien has been appointed as the Executive Producer of the National Arts Festival, ​a newly created role aimed at taking South Africa’s premier arts event boldly into the future.​ Johaardien, currently head of Arts and Culture at the University of Johannesburg, is no stranger to the

NAF holds steady in tough economic climate

Published on July 13, 2016

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][13 July 2016] – The National Arts Festival reported “solid and consistent” support for the arts in a tough economic environment, as it announced its 2016 attendance and sales figures today. “We’ve seen

Rewarding the best of the best at #NAF16

Published on July 10, 2016

Artistic excellence was celebrated at the National Arts Festival this morning when the winners of the 2016 Standard Bank Ovation Awards were revealed at a ceremony that also honoured outgoing National Arts Festival Artistic Director Ismail Mahomed. Commenting on the impact of the awards, Mahomed said: “The Ovation Awards have earned a significant gravitas in the arts

The best Student Theatre at #NAF16

Published on July 10, 2016

Awards for the best works by students at the 2016 National Arts Festival were announced at a function at the Monument in Grahamstown on Sunday. The awards were decided by a panel of advisors comprising Jacqueline Dommisse (convenor), Lee-Ann van Rooi and Bertina Johnson. Nominated for the Most Promising Playwright of the Year Award Thembela Madliki

Lazarus wins best story in Short Sharp collection

Published on July 10, 2016

The annual anthology of Short.Sharp.Stories was launched at the National Arts Festival this week. Die Laughing – “stories of wit, satire and humour” – was edited by Joanne Hichens, who is also the curator of the competition. Short.Sharp.Stories is a literary initiative sponsored by the National Arts Festival. Incredible Journey is the project’s third anthology. The authors

Drama for Life wins Adelaide Tambo award

Published on July 10, 2016

The 2016 Adelaide Tambo Award for Human Rights was presented to Drama for Life at the awards reception at the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown on Sunday. This award aims to recognise artists who engage in the arts as a platform to advocate social change and entrench a culture of human rights. “Drama For Life

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: 10 July

Published on July 9, 2016

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NOTICE] While we make every effort to ensure the information in the programme is correct, changes to schedules, cancellations and additions are on-going. Here are the latest updates: Changes to the National

Standing Ovation Award for Gary Gordon

Published on July 9, 2016

Gary Gordon, the “father of South African physical theatre”, was presented with a Standard Bank Standing Ovation Award at a reception held at the Monument in Grahamstown on Friday, in honour of his “longstanding creative energy in South Africa’s cultural life and his enormously significant contributions to the vitality of the National Arts Festival’s Main, Fringe and Arena

Ovation Award winners at #NAF16

Published on July 9, 2016

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NEWS] Artistic innovation, excellence, the exploration of new performance styles and the courage to open new conversation through the arts underpin the motivation for the winners of the Standard Bank Ovation Award.

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: 9 July

Published on July 8, 2016

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NOTICE] While we make every effort to ensure the information in the programme is correct, changes to schedules, cancellations and additions are on-going. Here are the latest updates: Changes to the National

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: 8 July

Published on July 8, 2016

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NOTICE] While we make every effort to ensure the information in the programme is correct, changes to schedules, cancellations and additions are on-going. Here are the latest updates: Changes to the National

Arts Festival to end on a high note

Published on July 7, 2016

Thursday, July 7, 2016 — The closing weekend of the National Arts Festival sees the 11-day Festival end on a high note with top talent performing some highly anticipated acts. Among the big attractions are AKA (fresh from the USA) and The Muffinz (pictured), who are returning to the Festival after previous award-winning performances in Grahamstown.

Streets of Freedom: all you need to know

Published on July 7, 2016

The National Arts Festival’s annual street parade is the event that signals the closing of one Festival and the possibilities that will inspire the next. With the theme Streets of Freedom, this year’s parade – the seventh annual parade – honours the 40th anniversary of the 1976 student uprising, the day on which South Africa’s youth took

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: 7 July

Published on July 7, 2016

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NOTICE] While we make every effort to ensure the information in the programme is correct, changes to schedules, cancellations and additions are on-going. Here are the latest updates: Changes to the National

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: 6 July

Published on July 5, 2016

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NOTICE] While we make every effort to ensure the information in the programme is correct, changes to schedules, cancellations and additions are on-going. Here are the latest updates: Changes to the Main

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: 5 July

Published on July 4, 2016

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NOTICE] While we make every effort to ensure the information in the programme is correct, changes to schedules, cancellations and additions are on-going. Here are the latest updates: Changes to the Main

Access the Festival on the go with our free app

Published on July 4, 2016

Visitors to the National Arts Festival can carry their plans in their pocket with the Festival’s 2017 mobile app. Free to download from both iOS and Android stores, the National Arts Festival app is a portable Festival-planner that enables online bookings and stores users’ e-tickets on the go. Festival-goers who like to plan on the

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: 4 July

Published on July 3, 2016

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NOTICE] While we make every effort to ensure the information in the programme is correct, changes to schedules, cancellations and additions are on-going. Here are the latest updates: Changes to the Main

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: 3 July

Published on July 3, 2016

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NOTICE] While we make every effort to ensure the information in the programme is correct, changes to schedules, cancellations and additions are on-going. Here are the latest updates: Changes to the Main

Public art: venues for Semi-Gloss

Published on July 2, 2016

[FESTIVAL NOTICE] Semi-Gloss is a public performance work developed by Ayanda Nondlwana and Siyabonga Bawuti (Via Kasi Movers), Monwabisi Dondashe and Athenkosi Nyikilana (Phezulu Stilt Walkers), and Francois Knoetze (Cape Mongo). Performances are at the following venues: 2 July – Monument at 15:00 3 July – Fiddlers Green at 15:00 4 July – Church Square at 15:00

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: 2 July

Published on July 2, 2016

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NOTICES] Stop press! Saturday 2 July – Make note of these changes to the programme before you head out for the day: Changes to the Main programme Secret Ballot – Performances at 14:00

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: 1 July

Published on June 30, 2016

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NOTICES] Stop press! Friday 1 July – Make note of these changes to the programme before you head out for the day: Changes to the Main programme One Man, One Light at the

NVFV at #NAF16: the final programme

Published on June 30, 2016

Funding has been secured, curatorial decisions made, and screening times finalised – the National Arts Festival and the National Video and Film Foundation present a Challenging Programme: In Honour of Women and Activism. All screenings take place between the 7 and 10 July in the Atherstone Room in the Monument – except for Kalushi and If

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: 30 June

Published on June 30, 2016

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NOTICES] Stop press! Thursday 30 June – Make note of these changes to the programme before you head out for the day: Changes to the Main programme One Man, One Light at

Grahamstown for day trippers

Published on June 24, 2016

Sarah Roberson’s guide to spending a day in Grahamstown, host city of the National Arts Festival With so much on offer at the National Arts Festival, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out how to get the most out of a visit. Along with the vast programme comprising Festival staples theatre, comedy, music and

It’s the final countdown to #NAF16

Published on June 23, 2016

The final countdown to the 42nd National Arts Festival (30 June – 10 July 2016) has begun. With one week to go, Grahamstown is a hive of activity as the National Arts Festival’s extensive infrastructure comes to life. Artists and musicians are already arriving and pop-up businesses are beginning to bloom as the town prepares

Hear the call of women’s voices

Published on June 23, 2016

Compelling women’s stories and trailblazing female creatives command the spotlight at the 2016 National Arts Festival, with plays that celebrate and interrogate the role women play in our political, social and cultural discourse, writes Christina Kennedy This year’s Featured Artist is pioneering theatremaker Lara Foot. She heads up the Baxter Theatre but remains a prolific

NFVF at #NAF16: Honouring women, activism

Published on June 23, 2016

Together with the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF), we’re delighted to announce a late addition to the already rich Film Festival programme – screenings of six extraordinary films that will be presented in honour of women and activism. All screenings of the following films will be introduced by people involved with the making of the films.

Lucky packet of surprises awaits on the Fringe

Published on June 23, 2016

Never mind politics – if you want to see true democracy in action, where professional theatre-makers rub shoulders with school and community groups, the bustling National Lottery Fringe at the National Arts Festival offers a snapshot of the real state of the nation, writes Christina Kennedy This year, the National Lotteries Commission has come on

Be swept away by dance at #NAF16

Published on June 22, 2016

Dance enthusiasts can anticipate a diverse array of productions at the National Arts Festival from both the Main and National Lottery Fringe programmes, writes Sarah Roberson A spectacular production of The Firebird, designed and directed by Janni Younge (previously of the Handspring Puppet Company) and choreographed by Jay Pather, will have its world premiere at

Hitting top notes at the Fringe

Published on June 22, 2016

Atiyyah Khan rounds up some of the most eagerly anticipated music acts on this year’s National Lottery Fringe Around the world, fringe festivals exist as platforms for experimental, entertaining and edgy work – and the National Lottery Fringe at the National Arts Festival is no exception. Operating as an open-access event – that is, there’s

Karoo Moose: opening NAF with magic

Published on June 21, 2016

Acclaimed South African playwright, director and producer Lara Foot is this year’s Featured Artist for 2016. She will stage three productions at the National Arts Festival: the world premiere of her latest play, The Inconvenience of Wings; and the restaging two of her award winning works, Karoo Moose and Tshepang. Nearly a decade since its premiere and

SA and France: inspired collaborators

Published on June 21, 2016

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the partnership between the French Institute of South Africa (IFAS) and the National Arts Festival. Since 1996, more than 40 productions across all genres supported by IFAS have been presented in Grahamstown as part of a dynamic and inspiring partnership. During the France-South Africa Seasons 2012-2013, a significant programme of highly acclaimed French artists and productions

‘Come book a show, and sit front row…’

Published on June 21, 2016

Let’s do this in numbers: Dylan Hitchens and Simon van Wyk, the TWO musicians that make up musical stand-up act The Brothers Streep, mark their return to the 42nd National Arts Festival for the FIFTH time with THREE shows by writing a song about 76 shows on the programme this year! We love this witty take on a

#NAF16 travel plans: directions and roadworks

Published on June 20, 2016

If you’re planning on driving to the National Arts Festival, you’ll need to factor in a little extra travelling time as there are roadworks on all the major routes to Grahamstown. However, we have good news for you – the South African National Road Agency (SANRAL) has agreed to suspend the stop-and-gos on the N2

Full-on Fringe awaits #NAF16 explorers

Published on June 15, 2016

Many of South Africa’s foremost performers, producers, directors and choreographers are returning to the stage where they were first noticed – the National Arts Festival’s Fringe – to take advantage of the opportunity to experiment with their craft and be part of the unmatched energy and camaraderie it generates. The event gets a boost this

International award for Twist’s Emma Durden

Published on June 15, 2016

Emma Durden, the programme manager of Twist Theatre Development Projects, has been honoured with an award for Leadership in Community Based Theatre and Civic Engagement by the International Association of Theatre in Higher Education. She will travel to Chicago in August to receive the award. This is great recognition for her work done with community

Think!Fest: A fascinating festival for your brain

Published on June 13, 2016

There’s no doubt that this is a complex, challenging and invigorating time to be South African – and this year’s Think!Fest, a series of panel discussions and debates held as part of the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown, promises to grapple with some of the burning issues on the country’s agenda. Student protests and the

Art can conquer hate: 10 shows to see at #NAF16

Published on June 13, 2016

Art can conquer hate! Book for the following 10 events at this year’s National Arts Festival: 1. AFRIQUEER is a multimedia, interdisciplinary project that aims to enhance a deeper understanding about sex, sexualities and sexual health with a human rights perspective. 2. In THE ECHO OF A NOISE, Pieter-Dirk Uys opens his heart and talks about his private and

10 things to know about #NAF16

Published on June 3, 2016

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][INSIDER’s GUIDE] Navigating the hundreds of shows, events and venues at the National Arts Festival can seem daunting  – especially for first-time visitors to the small city of Grahamstown, which becomes South

National Arts Festival seeks Executive Producer

Published on June 1, 2016

Revised structure for NAF calls for dynamic new leadership [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][MEDIA RELEASE] – The National Arts Festival, the largest celebration of the arts on the continent, is changing the way it is produced and

Music at #NAF16: Tuning in to the sounds of SA

Published on May 26, 2016

Festival goers will be able to tune in to the soundtrack of South Africa when the country’s finest musicians and visiting artists from around the world take to the stages of Grahamstown during the National Arts Festival, which runs in Grahamstown from 30 June to 10 July. There’s musical royalty on the programme this year – each

Celebrating Africa Day: 11 shows to see at #NAF16

Published on May 25, 2016

In celebration of Africa Day, National Arts Festival Artistic Director Ismail Mahomed shares 11 productions you should see at #NAF16 1. Drama for Life’s Afri-Queer directed by Warren Nebe with a team of performance artists from five countries, namely Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and South Africa. Afri-Queer is an evocative site-specific journey into the lives of

The #NAF16 programme is here!

Published on May 19, 2016

The ink is dry on this year’s programme! And you’ll soon be able to browse 100s of pages showcasing this year’s line-up of the best South African theatre, music, dance, comedy, magic and family fare. Next week, copies of the programme will be distributed nationally (we’ll publish a list of outlets right here on our website). Meantime, browse a

The SBYA award winners who share their success

Published on May 18, 2016

Our Artistic Director Ismail Mahomed says he enjoys celebrating the upward trajectory of Standard Bank Young Artists, ‘but what fills me with inspiration and hope is being able to watch how they’ve moved forward to create opportunities for other artists’. There are many such stories, including: Hlengiwe Lushaba Madlala (SBYA 2006: Dance) and Zinzi Princessy

Short.Sharp.Stories authors on Caine shortlist

Published on May 11, 2016

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][NEWS] The authors of two stories in the Short.Sharp.Stories anthology, Incredible Journey: Stories That Move You, have been shortlisted for the Caine Prize for African Writing. Lidudumalingani and Bongani Kona, two of

Download the #NAF16 programme here

Published on May 9, 2016

Hundreds of brilliant productions, exhibitions, installations, films and performances fill the pages of this year’s National Arts Festival programme. If you’d like to browse the programme offline, why not download a copy in PDF format: DOWNLOAD You can either browse the programme on the site, or download a PDF copy by clicking on the links

NAF programme bursts with stellar shows

Published on May 9, 2016

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][NEWSLETTER] The programme for this year’s National Arts Festival is loaded with shows that promise to make you think, make you laugh and allow you to lose yourself  as artists, dancers, performers and

Bookings for National Arts Festival open 9 May

Published on May 6, 2016

Bookings open on Monday 9 May for this year’s National Arts Festival, a feast of theatre, dance, music, visual art and more that runs in Grahamstown from 30 June to 10 July. The full #NAF16 programme will be available on the website. It will be fully searchable as well as available as a downloadable PDF. Tickets can be

Musos from around the world head to Jazz Festival

Published on April 6, 2016

Jazz innovators from 12 different countries will share the stage with top SA artists including Caiphus Semenya, Simphiwe Dana, Afrika Mkhize and Ringo Madlingozi [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][MEDIA RELEASE] Some of the world’s most interesting

National Arts Festival unleashes feisty line-up for 2016

Published on April 6, 2016

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][MEDIA RELEASE] South Africa’s visionaries, mavericks and disruptors headline this year’s National Arts Festival, which runs from 30 June to 10 July in Grahamstown. The programme taps into the national mood with

‘South Africa’s artists can liberate us from fear’

Published on October 30, 2015

Here is the address given by National Arts Festival Creative Director Ismail Mahomed at the announcement of the winners of the 2016 Standard Bank Young Artist Award in Johannesburg on Wednesday night. TONIGHT, we honour another group of Standard Bank Young Artists. Their names will be added to the prestigious honours list which already includes

Meet the 2016 Standard Bank Young Artist Award winners

Published on October 28, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][MEDIA RELEASE] Five of South Africa’s brightest creative stars were named as recipients of the Standard Bank Young Artist Awards on Wednesday 28 October, recognising and honouring their dynamic and outstanding contribution

Mohau Modisakeng, Standard Bank Young Artist award winner for visual art

Published on October 28, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][PROFILE] Mohau Modisakeng is a multidisciplinary artist working primarily as a sculptor who moves into performance, film, installation and large-scape photographic prints as the concept requires. He was born in 1986, and grew

Jade Bowers, Standard Bank Young Artist 2016 award winner for theatre

Published on October 28, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][PROFILE] Born in Cape Town in 1987, Jade Bowers is a director and designer who experiments with physical style and conceptual form to make theatre that is fuelled by invention and creativity. Jade

Siya Makuzeni, Standard Bank Young Artist 2016 winner for jazz

Published on October 28, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][PROFILE] Siyavuya Makuzeni is a trombone player, vocalist, lyricist and songwriter well known for her uniquely experimental, edgy yet pure intonation. Born in 1982 in the Eastern Cape, Makuzeni grew up singing in the choir

Themba Mbuli, Standard Bank Young Artist 2016 award winner for dance

Published on October 28, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][PROFILE] Choreographer, dancer and teacher Themba Mbuli’s love affair with the performing arts started about 15 years ago, when he joined Zola Musical Drama, a youth club in Soweto, where he performed drama,

Avigail Bushakevitz, Standard Bank Young Artist 2016 winner for music

Published on October 28, 2015

Born in Jerusalem in 1988, Avigail Bushakevitz’s family moved to South Africa when she was one. Wanting to keep up with her older brothers, Avigail began playing piano when she was five, venturing into violin at eight. Determined to nurture her undeniable talent, her mother, Leonore, used to drive her the 400-odd kilometres from their

Deadline extended: Proposals for the National Arts Festival 2016

Published on September 4, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][MEDIA RELEASE] 4 September – Did you miss the deadline for the call for proposals for the Main programme for 2016 or maybe you considered entering but just never got your proposal together?

2015 Arts Journalist Awards deadline extended

Published on September 4, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][MEDIA RELEASE] 4 September 2015 – Did the deadline for the Arts Journalist Awards pass you by? Maybe you were hesitant to submit your work because you write in a language other

National Arts Festival calls for proposals for 2016

Published on August 22, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NEWS] The National Arts Festival (NAF) is calling for proposals for the 2016 Main programme, which runs from 30 June to 10 July next year. ‘We are looking for re-imaginations of

How to enter the 2015 SA Arts Journalist of the Year Awards

Published on August 6, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][NEWS] Are you an arts writer, broadcaster or photographer in traditional media or publishing online? Then it’s time to get your portfolio together because the National Arts Festival (NAF) and Business and

Ringing endorsement for arts as Festival grows

Published on July 15, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NEWS] The popularity of Grahamstown’s National Arts Festival has been reaffirmed with the release of this year’s attendance figures, which show a “significant” increase in attendance in 2015. This increase comes

Let your journey unravel the truth, Mahomed tells Schools Festival

Published on July 13, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NEWS] Thousands of high school learners have arrived in Grahamstown to enjoy the best of the Festival during the National Schools Festival, which runs from 15 to 18 July. The theme

Shooting the Festival: Pearla Berg

Published on July 13, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NEWS] For the 11 days of the National Arts Festival, a small team of photographers – photojournalism students and staff from Rhodes University’s School of Journalism – spend 15 hours a day

Shooting the Festival: Hlumela Mkabile

Published on July 13, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NEWS] For the 11 days of the National Arts Festival, a small team of photographers – photojournalism students and staff from Rhodes University’s School of Journalism – spend 15 hours a day

Shooting the Festival: Jane Berg

Published on July 13, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NEWS] For the 11 days of the National Arts Festival, a small team of photographers – photojournalism students and staff from Rhodes University’s School of Journalism – spend 15 hours a day

Creative excellence rewarded at National Arts Festival 2015

Published on July 12, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NEWS] Some of the most exciting productions on the Fringe programme at this year’s National Arts Festival, which ran from 2 to 12 July in Grahamstown, have been recognised for their

All the #NAF2015 Ovation award winners

Published on July 12, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NEWS] Artistic innovation, excellence, the exploration of new performance styles and the courage to open new conversation through the arts underpin the motivation for the winners of the Standard Bank Ovation Award.

Changes, cancellations: Sunday 12 July

Published on July 11, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NOTICES] Stop press! Sunday 12 July – Make note of these changes to the programme:

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: Saturday 11 July

Published on July 10, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NOTICES] Stop press! Saturday 11 July – Make note of these changes to the programme before you head out for the day:

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: Friday 10 July

Published on July 9, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NOTICES] Stop press! Friday 10 July – Make note of these changes to the programme before you head out for the day:

All you need to know about the Festival street parades

Published on July 9, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NEWS] The National Arts Festival’s annual street parade is the gong that signals the closing of one Festival and the possibilities that will inspire the next. 

How the Ovation Awards work

Published on July 8, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NEWS]The Standard Bank Ovation Awards have become one of the most important indicators of a performance’s quality for the public. Recipients of the award benefit from extended tours, international opportunities to perform,

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: Thursday 9 July

Published on July 8, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NOTICES] Stop press! Thursday 9 July – Make note of these changes to the programme before you head out for the day:

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: Wednesday 8 July

Published on July 7, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NOTICES] Stop press! Wednesday 8 July – Make note of these changes to the programme before you head out for the day:

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: Tuesday 7 July

Published on July 6, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NOTICES] Stop press! Monday 6 July – Make note of these changes to the programme before you head out for the day: Additional performances Naked Knitting and Other Contradictory Acts has an extra show

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: Monday 6 July

Published on July 5, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NOTICES] Stop press! Monday 6 July – Make note of these changes to the programme before you head out for the day: Additional performances A sell-out run of Cape Dance Company’s hit show Blue has

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: Sunday 5 July

Published on July 4, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NOTICES] Stop press! Sunday 5 July – Make note of these changes to the programme before you head out for the day: Additional performances A sell-out run of Cape Dance Company’s hit

CuePix Pic of the Day: Saturday 4 July

Published on July 4, 2015

Every day of the 11 Days of Amaz!ng, we will feature the CuePix Pic of the Day – an image that CuePix editor Harold Gess believes is worthy of showcasing. Today, it’s Hlumela Mkabile’s extraordinarily evocative – and sharp – image of the cast of Bullying, a play by the Rutanang Community Theatre Project that aims

Extra shows, changes and cancellations: Saturday 4 July

Published on July 4, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NOTICES] Stop press! Saturday 4 July – Make note of these changes to the programme before you head out for the day: Additional performances Consecutive sold-out performances of Cape Dance Company’s hit

‘You know you’re in Grahamstown when…’

Published on July 2, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NEWS] The National Arts Festival recently ran a competition which asked entrants to complete the sentence, ‘You know you’re in Grahamstown when…’

EP Herald: It’s all systems go for 41st Festival

Published on July 2, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][IN THE NEWS] “We are ready,” was the message echoed by all the speakers at Wednesday’s opening of the 41st National Festival of the Arts.

Win an AMAZ!NG trip to the National Arts Festival

Published on June 30, 2015

9am UPDATE: This competition is now closed. Thank you for your wonderful entries! We will be doing a draw shortly and the winner will be notified soon. How would you like to win a VIP National Arts Festival experience for you and a partner? Flights, accommodation and free tickets! All you have to do is

Adding up to AMAZ!NG: the Festival in numbers

Published on June 30, 2015

Let us do the sums for you: nearly 2 500 performances of 630 shows adds up to 11 Days of AMAZ!NG! [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”] [/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

Your chance to catch up with SA’s visual artists

Published on June 29, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NEWS] Ismail Mahomed, the Festival’s Artistic Director, recently listed the artists who have begun arriving in Grahamstown to set up their shows ahead of the Festival opening on 2 July. We’re sure you’ll agree

Uncovering an underground wonderland

Published on June 28, 2015

Think!Fest takes on issues around the ownership of urban public space in a series of fascinating talks this year, with performance and visual artists taking the lead:

Six days to go: the press previews the Festival

Published on June 26, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][IN THE NEWS} Arts writer Christina Kennedy strikes the right kind of enthusiasm with her preview in Business Day today. Headlined, “Bards, ballet, belly laughs and brrr…”, she writes: Arts budgets are tight

How we’re making sure the show will go on at #NAF2015

Published on June 25, 2015

As the sleepy hollow of Grahamstown prepares to welcome thousands of visitors, the organisers of the Festival are finalising plans to make sure everything runs as smoothly as possible THE organisers of this year’s National Arts Festival have been furiously working behind the scenes to ensure that the show will go on – despite challenges

Full circle for Francois Knoetze

Published on June 24, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][PRODUCTION NEWS] Artist Francois Knoetze spent two years performing in wearable sculptures made from waste all over the City of Cape Town – and Cape Mongo is the documentation of these performances, pulling

Bigger venue for Guandong Puppets

Published on June 24, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NOTICE] With sold-out shows and demand still high for the Guandong Provincial Puppet Art Theatre, we’re delighted to announce that we’ve managed to shift things around and relocate the final performance

M&G: Loyiso Gola takes his comedy to the next level

Published on June 19, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][IN THE NEWS] Loyiso Gola is one of the funnymen on the 2015 National Arts Festival’s programme, which includes Pieter-Dirk Uys and Conrad Koch. There’s a great interview with Gola in the Mail

Read SA Art Times bumper Festival edition online

Published on June 19, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”] This month’s Art Times magazine has a special focus on #‎NAF2015, including a highlights list of must-see visual art exhibitions and a profile of Standard Bank Young Artist Award winner Kemang Wa

South African classics at #NAF2015

Published on June 19, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][PRODUCTION NEWS] Celebrating Athol Fugard’s 83rd birthday and commemorating the 20th anniversary of the death of Barney Simon are two classics of South African theatre – ‘The Island’ and ‘Woza Albert!’ 

Throwback Thursdays: The Festival in pictures

Published on June 18, 2015

We’ve persuaded CuePix editor Harold Gess to share some of the more spectacular photographs he and his team took at the National Arts Festival in 2014 for our #ThrowbackThursdays series. Shooting fast action at low speeds, varying light conditions, being considerate of the audience and having a sense of when to press the shutter are

Artists, find out how to get to Edinburgh

Published on June 16, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NOTICE] The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is an open-access arts festival that takes place every August for three weeks in Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city.

Women take centre stage with strong female presence at this year’s National Arts Festival

Published on June 9, 2015

This year’s programme features more women in an effort to amplify female voices in the theatrical, performing and visual arts THIS YEAR’s National Arts Festival – which runs from 2 to 12 July – not only features a number of strong and visible women in most genres, but also numerous productions and exhibitions that interrogate

Fantastic family theatre at Grahamstown National Arts Festival

Published on June 5, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][IN THE NEWS] The ASSITEJ Family Fare Platform returns to the National Arts Festival for a fourth year to promote rich and diverse theatre for young audiences and their families.

Creative Feel: a guide to the National Arts Festival

Published on June 3, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][IN THE NEWS] The latest edition of Creative Feel magazine is out – with a special focus on the National Arts Festival.

When a conductor has a sense of humour…

Published on June 2, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][IN THE NEWS] Richard Cock, South Africa’s most charming conductor, was interviewed this morning on internet radio station CliffCentral.

Mini-Flemish season at South Africa’s National Arts Festival

Published on May 29, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][IN THE NEWS] Dance, choreography, new theatrical expression and innovation on stage form the backbone of the mini-Flemish season at the South African National Arts Festival, which runs from 2 to 12

‘Born in the RSA’ to be restaged 20 years after Barney Simon’s death

Published on May 27, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NEWS] To mark the 20th anniversary of legendary South African theatre-maker Barney Simon’s passing, the Baxter Theatre Centre is restaging his riveting docudrama ‘Born in the RSA’ in Grahamstown this year

International recognition for Steve Newman and Ashish Joshi

Published on May 27, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][PRODUCTION NEWS] Congratulations to Steve Newman (guitar), Lee Thomson (trumpet) and Ashish Joshi (tabla, cajon, bongos and other percussion), who have been nominated in the ‘Live Performance Album Category’ for their album

Why are there tickets if a show was sold out? We answer your booking questions

Published on May 26, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NOTICE] We’ve been asked why, just as it seems a show is about to be sold out, more seats suddenly become available … and quite often pretty good seats too.

8 ways to have a good time in Grahamstown #NAF2015

Published on May 26, 2015

We share our top tips for visitors to the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown

TimeOut: Dylan Moran on making metaphorical cakes…

Published on May 20, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][IN THE NEWS] Irish comedy superstar Dylan Moran will be stopping off in Grahamstown as he wraps up his latest tour, ‘Off the Hook’. In a recent interview with TimeOut London, the ‘Black Books’

TimesLIVE: Zulu Warriors – A white kid on my stoep

Published on May 20, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][IN THE NEWS] “In 2009, a teenaged David Jenkins made the 170km trek from Empangeni to Durban on a mission to find someone who could teach him to play the accordion like

Africa’s artists join hands on stage at National Arts Festival

Published on May 20, 2015

Questions around African identity and belonging are woven into this year’s programme for the National Arts Festival, with continental representation from countries such as Botswana, Malawi and Zimbabwe.

We answer your frequently asked questions about #NAF2015

Published on May 19, 2015

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][FESTIVAL NOTICE] It’s less than two months to go before the curtain rises on this year’s National Arts Festival. To help you make the most of your #NAF2015 experience, we’ve put together a

Cape Dance Company celebrates 20th year in Grahamstown

Published on May 14, 2015

The Cape Dance Company has performed at the National Arts Festival since the company was established in 1995 – and, if artistic director Debbie Turner has anything to do with it, they’ll be there for the next 20. [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=””

Reminder to Fringe artists to submit technical requirements

Published on May 11, 2015

[FESTIVAL NOTICE] A heads up to all artists participating in this year’s Fringe to submit their technical questionnaires by no later than Wednesday 20 May. You would have received the technical information form by email. If you don’t have a copy, you can download one here. The form is an Adobe document that will automatically

Tumbuka to bloom bold at National Arts Festival

Published on May 11, 2015

Unflinching Harare-based dance company Tumbuka to stage production that grapples with the Zimbabwean psyche through a vigorous vocabulary of contemporary dance Saying a resolute no to xenophobia by their very presence at this year’s National Arts Festival, Zimbabwe’s leading dance company Tumbuka will be staging a production that explores the ‘Zimbabwean self, focusing on the

Media accreditation for 2015 now open

Published on May 9, 2015

Media who would like to be part of the 2015 National Arts Festival, which runs from 2 to 12 July, are invited to apply for accreditation. Interested journalists can apply for accreditation via the Media Centre on our website. Please make sure you complete all the fields. The Festival Media Office will confirm receipt of all applications.