“Mother City” is a powerful documentary about the fight for social equality in Cape Town’s neglected spaces. The film follows the Reclaim the City initiative’s struggle over five years to transform these spaces into homes for the working class. The documentary captures their battles against influential political forces and property moguls and documents their journey to Barcelona, where they drew inspiration to counter Cape Town’s escalating housing problems. “Mother City” is set to make its global debut at the Sheffield Doc Fest in the UK in June, before its African premiere at Encounters 2024.
South Africa’s beloved comedy show, the Jive Cape Town Funny Festival, is making a grand revival for its 25th anniversary. Curated by Eddy Cassar, the festival promises an unforgettable experience with an impressive lineup of local and international comedians, while also supporting local charities and businesses. The festival’s dedication to promoting emerging comedy stars and communityfocused initiatives is admirable, making it a significant cultural platform. Join the celebration from June 11 to July 7 at The Baxter Theatre and experience the power of laughter.
The Slave Route Challenge is an annual event in Cape Town that offers a handson experience of the city’s historical narrative through a half marathon, a 10km, and a 5km race. The routes guide runners through historically significant locations, such as District 6, the Castle of Good Hope, and BoKaap, offering participants a deep understanding of the city’s origins. More than just a sports event, the Slave Route Challenge is a commemorative celebration of Cape Town’s heritage and culture, fostering a sense of harmony in diversity.
Worldrenowned Italian tenor, Andrea Bocelli, is bringing his exceptional classical talent to South Africa in April 2025 for his 30thanniversary tour. The concert promises to be a unique experience, featuring a soprano, choir, and orchestra set against the backdrop of the captivating Cape Town landscape. Bocelli’s concerts attract vast audiences worldwide and are renowned for their universal appeal, making his visit to South Africa a monumental moment of shared emotional experience. Fans can secure their seats from May 24, 2024.
Disney’s ‘The Magic Box’ is a breathtaking Broadway show that combines puppetry, costumes, projection techniques, and music to pay tribute to animation. The South African cast will debut the show on October 9th, immersing the audience in a sensory journey. The show features a captivating score with iconic melodies from Disney and a creative team that includes renowned composers and designers. Don’t miss the chance to embark on a magical journey through unforgettable narratives, songs, and characters with ‘The Magic Box.’
Africa’s Travel Indaba is a global event that showcases Africa’s tourism potential, promoting prosperity through collective action and endorsing an “Unlimited Africa.” The event brought together industry thought leaders and change agents who prioritized collaboration and shared success, ultimately promoting meaningful conversations and making pledges to elevate the African continent. The program encompassed sessions on pertinent subjects such as youth involvement, advancements in aviation, AI in tourism, and the significance of small businesses in the tourism sector.
‘The Heart of Cape Town’ is a documentary premiering at We Are Africa that tells the story of Laston Sachikonye, a wire artist, and his partnership with Uthando South Africa to create unique wire hearts that spread love and warmth across South Africa. The documentary features South Africans moved by these wire hearts and serves as a testament to the strength of creativity, generosity, and the indomitable human spirit in South Africa. The premiere is expected to draw a large audience of international attendees and is a reflection of the beautiful and robust heart of South Africa.
The 2024 PONDO Trail Run is an annual trail running event in Pondoland, raising funds for philanthropic causes like conservation and corrective surgeries for children with cleft conditions. The event is a celebration of adventure, camaraderie, and purpose, with partnerships with companies dedicated to environmental stewardship and societal obligation. The upcoming event also includes an initiative called ‘Gift of Warmth,’ encouraging participants to donate warm clothing and blankets for children in need. The event transcends being a mere sporting event and embodies resilience, spirit, and collective commitment to making a lasting impact on the world.
Roxette is making a highly anticipated comeback to Cape Town, with their first live performance in over ten years scheduled for February 26, 2025. While the absence of lead vocalist Marie Fredriksson is felt, the remaining members of the band, including founder Per Gessle and new addition Lena Philipsson, are set to continue Roxette’s legacy. The concert will take place at the GrandWest Grand Arena, with ticket sales starting on May 10. Cape Town, with its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, is the perfect setting for this musical spectacle.
AfroDiaspora Connection is a music exchange initiative that aims to bring together African and Afrodiasporic abilities, spark innovative dialogues, and establish cultural bridges through workshops, performances, and studio sessions. The event features renowned artists and upandcoming talents from South Africa, the UK, and African diaspora communities, offering a unique experience for all attendees. The initiative promises to usher a novel wave in the regional alternative music scene and enhance opportunities for budding talents and marginalized communities to showcase their abilities on an international platform.
World Accordion Day is celebrated annually on May 6th around the world, highlighting the importance of the accordion as a musical instrument. In South Africa, the event showcases the accordion’s historical significance and contemporary relevance, with renowned artists performing at various venues. The accordion’s versatility and adaptability transcends cultural boundaries and has an enduring influence on South African music, as celebrated during the event’s diverse performances.
Get a glimpse into the heart of South African politics as the country prepares for the South African Legislative Sector’s Forum, a significant event where authorities from all nine provincial legislatures meet to strategize and reflect. The forum’s leadership steers the legislative sector, ensuring that the sector’s initiatives align with the country’s needs. The session involves discussions of the 7th Parliament’s and Provincial Legislatures’ arrival and the presentation of legacy reports from the 6th parliamentary tenure. Although the forum is an internal gathering, the South African Parliamentary Institute shares its report and training agenda for Members of Parliament and officials for the upcoming tenure.
Get ready for an exciting week in Cape Town with a football match, jazz festival, and Wings for Life World Run. The week promises to bring the city to life with culture, sports enthusiasm, and commitment to a noble cause. From the riveting DSTV Premiership match to the smooth jazz symphony at Greenmarket Square, Cape Town is buzzing with anticipation for the upcoming events. The city’s dedication to offering a smooth and memorable experience for all attendees is evident in the temporary road closures and prioritization of safety for residents and participants.
In a historic event in 2024, President Cyril Ramaphosa presented the National Orders at the Sefako Makgatho Guest House in Tshwane. The awards recognized individuals, citizen or noncitizen, for their significant contributions to shaping the nation in various fields, including business, science, medicine, community service, the arts, culture, and sports. Esteemed figures and officials attended the event, and the recipients were acknowledged as national heroes for their selfless acts towards social justice, equality, and human dignity for all.
The “Journey to Jazz” Festival is a weeklong event held in the Prince Albert desert that celebrates jazz music, education, gastronomic pleasures, and nature’s wonders. The festival includes community events, such as camping and nature walks, and supports the Prince Albert Community Trust. It’s a magical experience that brings together music, culture, community, and nature’s beauty in one enchanting tapestry.
Citizens in East London gathered to witness and participate in the special committee on the General Intelligence Laws Amendment Bill. Many expressed support for reactivating the South African National Intelligence Academy to improve intelligence agents’ abilities, but also advocated for safeguards to protect their privacy. The public also raised concerns about financial mismanagement, protection for whistleblowers, and the need for routine meetings between the Joint Standing Committee on Intelligence and the country’s President. The legislative process continues with the assembly of a public participation report and careful consideration of all inputs.