Beyond the Moon @ the Artscape Theatre
Township life comes alive in the Artscape Theatre on 7 - 8 April 2009 when the Nyanga Arts Development Centre (NADC) in collaboration with Artscape present Beyond the Moon, a two-hour celebration of the evolution of the rich arts and culture traditions from the Nyanga community.
This production is an initiative of the Creative Street Project and represents both professional and semi-professional artists. Audiences will be taken on a journey through traditional and contemporary music, song and dance with over 30 performers. There will also be an exhibition in the gallery and foyers of Artscape by crafters, photographers, painters, printers as well as fashion designers who feature prominently on local and international stages.
Beyond the Moon is directed by a team of well-known artists from Nyanga and includes Abey Xakwe, Sakhiwo Gxabhela and Thembani Luzipho. Musical directors are Mxolisi Dave Mayekana and Jongi Monatsi. Choreography is by Silumko Koyana. Production manager is Sizwe Febana who is also stage manager assisting Artscape's technical teams on sound and lighting. Costume designer is Nolufefe Siwundla.
Performers are members of bands and dance groups from Afro Vibe (band), Incredible Brass, Mzantsi Sounds (marimbas and voice), Ladies Mantombazana Dance Group (female), Ilitha Dance Group (male) and Abemveli (traditional song and dance). Abemveli is a noted and respected group of performers whose members are Elders (women) of the Nyanga community. They have for many decades been passing on their knowledge and skills to the younger generations, ensuring these valuable and important traditions are never lost.
Nyanga has been a nest for hundreds of artists in Cape Town from as early as the 50's. It has been the place where a rich cultural tradition has been maintained and admired and where the sounds of Cape Goema music, street Kwela and brass bands are still heard today.
For many artists this will be their first experience on a professional stage. Artscape continues to provide this platform for indigenous art forms previously excluded from this opportunity and encourages creativity in scriptwriting, musical composition and choreography - showcasing and presenting diverse performing arts programmes.
The Creative Streets Project started as a pilot programme to initiate a continuous resourceful business hub in Nyanga and the surrounding areas. It has involved all cultural groups and role players in the area, generating opportunities for arts entrepreneurs to showcase their talent as well as work prospects.
Beyond the Moon is a project of the NADC in collaboration with Artscape Indigenous Arts Department and is entertainment for the entire family.
Performances are at 19:00. Tickets cost R40. Pensioners and students R30, block bookings of 20 or more R30 and R25 per group of 60 learners. Book through Computicket, Artscape Dial-a-Seat 021 421 7695 or Shoprite Checkers outlets.
