Building on the success of the previous year’s model, 2003 saw two new sponsors added to the partnership that already included the NAC, EC DSRAC and Standard Bank. This year, the National Lotteries Distribution Trust and the SABC joined the partnership, reflecting the degree to which the Festival had truly become a national event. In order to succeed, the Festival relies on sponsors who truly understand the ethos and ends of our organization, which were beautifully reflected in SABC CEO Peter Matlare’s programme address:

“The SABC, as the public broadcaster, considers that arts and culture, in their broadest sense, are an essential part of South African life. Arts and culture are part of the touchstone of a nation and radiate the aspirations, hopes/dreams, fears, and values of us the common citizens, whilst expressing the most intense and memorable places of the spirit of the nation. They contribute to a sense of national identity, nation building, inclusiveness and self-confidence.

It is this indomitable spirit that we welcome you to celebrate with us in the Festival creative explosion of art.”

Also joining the festival for the first time was the Eastern Cape Ensemble. Now a staple feature, the Eastern Cape Ensemble was presented by EC DSRAC, and showcased a variety of dance and music indigenous to the province. This included the ‘dance of the axes’, traditional gumboot dancing, and a dance called the Gcleka, which is typically performed only by the more elderly men in a community. The Eastern Cape Ensemble remains a popular feature on our programme, and is definitely not a show to be missed!