Culture

As readers, we get transported to far-away lands gently guided by the writer’s pen. When writers get an opportunity to travel to physical places their work is further enriched.

“Katanga, January 17” is one of the most authentic Afrikan stories ever to grace the stage at the Market Theatre. Once more, the Market Theatre lives up to its historic reputation by offering its audience an extraordinary story that elucidates the prodigious anti-colonial icon status that Patrice Emery Lumumba holds.

Combining elements of afro-futurism and magical realism, Take Me To Town conceptualised, written and directed by prolific thespian Thabiso T. Ramalla takes satire to another level in weaving a post-Covid, post-apocalyptic love story between “Qhawe” played by Moagi Kai and “Zinkwenkwezi” played by Nthabeleng Masudubele.

The UJ Weekend of Jazz was more than a mere musical extravaganza; it was a sonic get-together, a profound exploration of the African jazz tradition. Set against the backdrop of Johannesburg, the festival offered a transformative experience for both musicians and audiences alike, delving into the depths of spirituality, cultural heritage, and musical innovation.

Grover Washington, Jr. was one of the most prolific saxophonists of his – and perhaps of all – time. Now, a brand-new Grover Washington, Jr. album has been unearthed by Lightyear Entertainment. Grover Live Vol. 2, out on September 13, will mark 25 years since the passing of the immensely popular artist and pioneer, who was largely responsible for creating a bridge between jazz and R&B.

The Johannesburg Art Gallery, in collaboration with Goodman Gallery, is proud to present ‘Umkhondo: Going Deeper’, Lindokuhle Sobekwa’s first solo exhibition at the museum, following his 2023 FNB Art Prize Award.

After a six-year hiatus from exhibiting in South Africa, Sabelo Mlangeni returns with a homecoming solo exhibition curated by Kamogelo Walaza. Exhibited for the first time, Mlangeni showcases 2010-2020 landscape photographs that invite us to consider trauma through this medium. These images, collectively titled “NGIYOBONA PHAMBILI,” explore how landscape can both conceal and reveal pain.

Iphupho L’ka Biko is a jazz-bending, multi-instrumentalist group whose music deeply connects to everyday life, guiding listeners on a journey of learning and living in harmony with their higher calling. The band’s sound, rooted in shared experiences, serves as a love letter to Black culture and identity, resonating with people by reflecting on their lives and the challenges faced in our country. Through their lyrics and sound, the group embodies a form of activism.

The UJ Weekend of Jazz is set to return taking place from 29-31 August 2024 at the UJ Art Centre, showcasing the remarkable talents of three leading voices in South African jazz: trumpeter and composer Mandla Mlangeni, vocalist and songwriter Gabi Motuba, and pianist and composer Keenan Meyer. This gathering of artists represents a rich blend of contemporary jazz, each bringing a distinct and profound approach to the genre.