Author: Michael Salzwedel
South Africa’s maternal mortality rate has more than quadrupled over the last few years, with the Eastern Cape being the main contributor to the high mortality rates, according to a report compiled by the Human Rights Watch and released this morning.
Despite the fact that more than 70 000 fuel workers have joined the national strike, things seem to be business as usual in Grahamstown.
Ever wondered what it would be like if our struggle stalwarts came back from the dead? This play is set around a dinner conversation between Mandela and Thembisile as Mandela prepares for the homecoming of Biko. Watch this if you want to learn about the democratic South Africa. SCMFJP
Standard Bank Golden Ovation Award winner and a firm favourite at last year’s festival, Dekaf returns for its final run. The show is a comedic consideration of race in contemporary South Africa. Siv Ngesi keeps his audience entertained though his self-reflexive comedy, from Julius Malema to Helen Zille, no-one is spared from Ngesi’s hilarious and innovative take on race. DB
Religion and tradition are fused together in this contemporary dance piece to tell the story of children uniting to pray for Africa and the challenges it faces. The show caters for all ages. Anyone who loves traditional music and contemporary dance will enjoy watching primary school children tackling serious issues through art. AVFJP
Mark Sampson seeks to entertain and educate through his brand new stand-up act. Poking fun at the modern consumerist lifestyle and its impact on global warming, Sampson hilariously explores what it means to ‘go green’ in this day and age. Extremely funny and suitable for children over 10. AG
Young Vincent searches for his father amidst deep emotional turmoil. When he eventually "finds" his father, he is troubled with the physical reality of needing a kidney transplant from the father he did not imagine. This is a gripping drama for all ages, portraying complex issues such as schizophrenia and peer pressure. EDP
An emotional dance production that studies the unpredictability of human relations. This piece of choreography begins on an energetic note, enhanced by four electric fans. The lively movement keeps the audience captivated throughout and the show received a well-deserved ovation at the end. TD
In this comedy (16 and over only) Dale Amler tells you a little about life, love and religion – the darker sides. After some first-show nerves, Dale settled into his show and is sure to find his feet in the crazy world of comedy. In spite of yourself – you’ll laugh. HH