South African singers Nombulelo Yende and Siphokazi Molteno showcased their exceptional talent at the 30th Opera World Cup, Operalia, held in Cape Town. Yende was among the 12 finalists, while Molteno advanced to the final round in the Zarzuela category. With over $200,000 in total prize money, Operalia draws diverse voices from around the globe, and South Africa’s representation in the finals underscores the country’s thriving opera landscape. The event also aimed to inspire future generations of opera singers, aligning with the African proverb, “it takes a village to raise a child.”
The prestigious Operalia competition, often dubbed the World Cup of opera, has commenced in Cape Town, featuring the legendary Spanish tenor and conductor Placido Domingo as the guest of honor. Established in 1993, Operalia has played a significant role in molding the careers of famous singers like Pretty Yende, Levy Sekgapane, and Metropolitan Opera star Sonya Yoncheva. The 30th edition of this esteemed event adds Cape Town to an impressive list of previous host cities, such as London, Paris, Madrid, Hamburg, Tokyo, and Milan.
Opera UCT and Cape Town Opera have partnered to create a fresh interpretation of Verdi’s La Traviata. This mesmerizing production features two diverse casts showcasing the remarkable talents of both institutions. Guided by acclaimed theatremaker Mari Borstlap, this production highlights the lasting relevance and allure of opera as an art form. With breathtaking performances from Opera UCT and Cape Town Opera’s emerging talents, this reimagined La Traviata promises to captivate audiences and inspire the next generation of performers.
The Cape Town Opera is all set to present Tosca, an opera which has already won hearts in Johannesburg. The opera, with its captivating storyline, cinematic direction, and visually stunning spectacle, is scheduled to be performed at the Opera House of Artscape Theatre in the coming month.
The ongoing taxi strike in Cape Town has been marked by violence and unrest, lasting for six days. This situation requires a joint effort from the city government and taxi operators to work together towards a resolution, putting the wellbeing of the city’s residents, especially children unable to attend school, as a priority.
In the world of football, rivalries and competition reign supreme. However, two South African football clubs, Mamelodi Sundowns and SuperSport United, have defied the norm and formed an unlikely alliance that benefits both organizations. Through the exchange of players, these rivals have shown the power of cooperation in sports.
On June 19, 2023, the South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr. Naledi Pandor, welcomed the French Minister, Ms. Catherine Colonna, for a Working Visit with the aim of strengthening the bilateral cooperation between the two nations. The visit provided a platform for both Ministers to engage in profound discussions on topics of mutual interest, covering regional and international matters.
The AUEU Innovation Festival is a crucial event that strengthens the South AfricaEuropean Union (SAEU) Science and Technology Cooperation, which began in 1996. In light of pressing global challenges such as climate change, food security, health, and energy, international cooperation is becoming more critical in finding solutions. The festival provides a vital platform for collaboration across disciplines, regions, and sectors.
South Africa’s Deputy Minister Candith MashegoDlamini participated in the 12th South AfricaChina Strategic Dialogue in Beijing, cochaired by Vice Minister Deng Li. This momentous gathering signifies the strong bond of friendship shared between the two nations at both partytoparty and state levels.