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 played by women and children in times of war. Featuring Sisonke Yafele, Ntomboxolo Donyeli, Nombasa Ngoqo, Anele Heshu and Phemello Hellemann.

 

 

Songs of Hope

This musical performance by vocalist and instrumentalist LoveChild is inspired by everyday incidents, struggles and people. LoveChild recently launched a music video for Khaw’buye at the Athenaeum, Port Elizabeth, in front of a capacity audience. LoveChild comprises Vuyiseka Maguga, Bongani Tulwana, Samuel Whitebooi and Tafadzwa Isaac.

 

A Feather On The Breath Of God

This music recital – titled after a comment written by the 11th century theologian Bernard of Clairvaux on hearing Hildegard of Bingen’s lyrical anthems for the first time – is sung by Samro scholarship and Standard Bank Encore Ovation Award recipient, Emma Farquharson. It features work from nine female classical composers, including the 11th century mystic and poet Hildegard of Bingen; Kassia – the first woman-of-colour composer; Amy Beach; and British composer Rebecca Clarke. Farquharson will be accompanied by pianist Nina van Schoor and cellist, Caleb Vaughn-Jones.

Read more

• Find out more about the other shows on this year’s Arena

Follow us #NAF18

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/nationalartsfestival
• Twitter: @artsfestival
• Instagram: @nationalartsfestival

  [/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]