William Young

<div>This July holiday, join Jack and his hilarious companions on a magical romp up the famous fairy tale beanstalk and beyond, on an adventure that includes toe-tapping songs, jokes, slapstick, romance, fantastic sets and fantasy costumes! A must-see holiday treat for all ages.</div><div><br /></div><div>Presented by the multi-award winning KickstArt Theatre Company, Jack and the Beanstalk is written and directed by Steven Stead (My Fair Lady, The Sound of Music) and designed by two times Fleur du Cap winner Greg King, who has just created the stunning sets for My Fair Lady.</div><div><br /></div><div>The show stars our dashing William Young as the hero, Jack, with Roshanda Lewis as his love-interest, Princess Jill. Blessing Xaba, known to South African and international audiences for his role as Fatty in the Spud movies, steps into the Dame’s high heels to play Jack’s long-suffering mother, Flora Flatbroke. Brent Palmer and Bryan Hiles play the hilariously inept robbers, Cecil and Claude, Liesl Coppin is the wicked Lady Beastly, Lyle Buxton plays The Giant, and Samantha Landers is the good fairy, Glissanda Goldenvox.</div><div><br /></div><div>Performances are scheduled from 3-27 July at The Baxter Theatre. Booking at Webtickets</div><div><br /></div>

This July holiday, join Jack and his hilarious companions on a magical romp up the famous fairy tale beanstalk and beyond, on an adventure that includes toe-tapping songs, jokes, slapstick, romance, fantastic sets and fantasy costumes! A must-see holiday treat for all ages.

Presented by the multi-award winning KickstArt Theatre Company, Jack and the Beanstalk is written and directed by Steven Stead (My Fair Lady, The Sound of Music) and designed by two times Fleur du Cap winner Greg King, who has just created the stunning sets for My Fair Lady.

The show stars our dashing William Young as the hero, Jack, with Roshanda Lewis as his love-interest, Princess Jill. Blessing Xaba, known to South African and international audiences for his role as Fatty in the Spud movies, steps into the Dame’s high heels to play Jack’s long-suffering mother, Flora Flatbroke. Brent Palmer and Bryan Hiles play the hilariously inept robbers, Cecil and Claude, Liesl Coppin is the wicked Lady Beastly, Lyle Buxton plays The Giant, and Samantha Landers is the good fairy, Glissanda Goldenvox.

Performances are scheduled from 3-27 July at The Baxter Theatre. Booking at Webtickets


JACK AND THE BEANSTALK PANTOMIME WILLIAM YOUNG HOLIDAY BAXTER KICKSTART STEVEN STEAD GREG KING

JACK-AND-THE-BEANSTALK-PANTOMIME-WILLIAM-YOUNG

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK PANTOMIME | William Young

Zoya Pon

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10600392/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1

Lucian Paulse

Tanika Hoffman

Thomas Janisch

Michael Everson

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm4721299/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1

Jaryd Pillay

<div>A highlight on South Africa’s cultural calendar, the National Arts Festival has been an annual multi-disciplinary arts festival, taking place in its Eastern Cape hometown of Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown), South Africa, since its inception in 1974.</div><div><br /></div><div>The NAF was a critical space for protest during apartheid; has hosted numerous groundbreaking artists; survived the pandemic by going digital; and back to live again, and is evolving and shaping the arts for half a century. The National Arts Festival is defined by the idea that the arts help us understand our world, connect within it, find meaning and drive transformation.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Festival will take place from 26 June to 6 July 2025.</div><div><br /></div><div><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>THREE PRODUCTIONS TO WATCH FEATURING OUR ACTORS :&nbsp;</strong></span></div><div><br /></div><div><strong>PILLAYBOY - Jaryd Pillay</strong></div><div>An all new stand-up comedy hour serving from award winning comedian and (un-awarded) pretty boy, Jaryd Pillay. A Pillayer&#39;s gotta Pillay! Get Reddy to put yourself in the right Moodley and witness an hour of punch for punch hilarity from Cape Town&#39;s spiciest comic as he navigates tales of love, and the South African Indian identity and what it truly means to be a real Pillayboy!</div><div><br /></div><div><strong>GROMMELS - Robert Hindley</strong></div><div><p style="color: #242424; text-decoration-color: initial; margin: 0px; font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Grommels is an award-winning children’s show that features Angelique Filter and Robert Hindley as the friendly, quirky, odd characters known as Blougrommel and Geelgrommel.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="color: #242424; text-decoration-color: initial; margin: 0px; font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Without saying a word, these two clowns take the audience on an adventure of wonder, magic, and remembering. What happens when you’re the only two colours in a grey world? What do you do when the walls around you start to turn? Can friends find each other again, in a moment of magic?</span></p><p style="color: #242424; text-decoration-color: initial; margin: 0px; font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Join the Grommels on a playful, educational journey of discovery where beauty and joy is found in quiet simplicity, where nature’s hopeful colours can grow again…if you just open your eyes.</span></p><p style="color: #242424; text-decoration-color: initial; margin: 0px; font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Can’t wait to introduce your little ones to the Grommels? Visit the Grommels Instagram or Facebook page to learn more! Grommels is a Vrystaat Kunstefees production.&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><br /></div><div><strong>I DON&#39;T BELIEVE IN DINOSAURS - Erin Gemmell</strong></div><div>A brand-new South African children&#39;s play packed with puppets, dancing, music, heartwarming moments, and maybe a meaningful message or two - perfect for kids aged 3 - 10 (and their grown-ups)!</div><div>Geo, Luna, and their cat do everything together ... but now their cat is getting old, and they know they have to find a way to help her!</div><div>Many years ago, Luna’s grandfather told them about a mysterious wish-granting dinosaur and, ever since, they’ve made maps, built inventions, and searched every cave they can find ... but now it’s time to do more. They believe that the dinosaur can cure their cat, so they pack their bags and set off on their quest. Along the way, we meet a unique cast of creatures - a wise frog, a friendly shark, some snarky birds, and a very sad cloud - who help Geo and Luna face the unpredictable ups and downs of friendship and teamwork. Through playful storytelling, they learn that it’s okay to feel sad and ask for help.&nbsp;</div><div>The story gently explores themes of grief, letting go, and the importance of embracing life’s challenges (in a fun and magical way).</div><div>From the creator of How to Hold the World and other award-winning artists, this joyful Family Fare production is full of imagination, big stories for little humans, and just the right amount of mess and immersiveness!</div><div><br /></div><div>To view the full programme and book your tickets click on the link below :&nbsp;</div><div>https://tickets.nationalartsfestival.co.za/en</div><p><br /></p>

A highlight on South Africa’s cultural calendar, the National Arts Festival has been an annual multi-disciplinary arts festival, taking place in its Eastern Cape hometown of Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown), South Africa, since its inception in 1974.

The NAF was a critical space for protest during apartheid; has hosted numerous groundbreaking artists; survived the pandemic by going digital; and back to live again, and is evolving and shaping the arts for half a century. The National Arts Festival is defined by the idea that the arts help us understand our world, connect within it, find meaning and drive transformation.

The Festival will take place from 26 June to 6 July 2025.

THREE PRODUCTIONS TO WATCH FEATURING OUR ACTORS : 

PILLAYBOY - Jaryd Pillay
An all new stand-up comedy hour serving from award winning comedian and (un-awarded) pretty boy, Jaryd Pillay. A Pillayer's gotta Pillay! Get Reddy to put yourself in the right Moodley and witness an hour of punch for punch hilarity from Cape Town's spiciest comic as he navigates tales of love, and the South African Indian identity and what it truly means to be a real Pillayboy!

GROMMELS - Robert Hindley
Grommels is an award-winning children’s show that features Angelique Filter and Robert Hindley as the friendly, quirky, odd characters known as Blougrommel and Geelgrommel. Without saying a word, these two clowns take the audience on an adventure of wonder, magic, and remembering. What happens when you’re the only two colours in a grey world? What do you do when the walls around you start to turn? Can friends find each other again, in a moment of magic?
Join the Grommels on a playful, educational journey of discovery where beauty and joy is found in quiet simplicity, where nature’s hopeful colours can grow again…if you just open your eyes.
Can’t wait to introduce your little ones to the Grommels? Visit the Grommels Instagram or Facebook page to learn more! Grommels is a Vrystaat Kunstefees production.

I DON'T BELIEVE IN DINOSAURS - ERIN GEMMELL
A brand-new South African children's play packed with puppets, dancing, music, heartwarming moments, and maybe a meaningful message or two - perfect for kids aged 3 - 10 (and their grown-ups)!
Geo, Luna, and their cat do everything together ... but now their cat is getting old, and they know they have to find a way to help her!
Many years ago, Luna’s grandfather told them about a mysterious wish-granting dinosaur and, ever since, they’ve made maps, built inventions, and searched every cave they can find ... but now it’s time to do more. They believe that the dinosaur can cure their cat, so they pack their bags and set off on their quest. Along the way, we meet a unique cast of creatures - a wise frog, a friendly shark, some snarky birds, and a very sad cloud - who help Geo and Luna face the unpredictable ups and downs of friendship and teamwork. Through playful storytelling, they learn that it’s okay to feel sad and ask for help. 
The story gently explores themes of grief, letting go, and the importance of embracing life’s challenges (in a fun and magical way).
From the creator of How to Hold the World and other award-winning artists, this joyful Family Fare production is full of imagination, big stories for little humans, and just the right amount of mess and immersiveness!

To view the full programme and book your tickets click on the link below : 
https://tickets.nationalartsfestival.co.za/en

NAF NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL MAKHANDA GRAHAMSTOWN FESTIVAL JARYD PILLAY ROBERT HINDLEY ERIN GEMMELL PILLABOY GROMMELS I DON'T BELIEVE IN DINOSAURS

NATIONAL-ARTS-FESTIVAL-JARYD-ROBERT-ERIN

THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL 2025 | Jaryd Pillay, Robert Hindley, Erin Gemmell

<div>Passion Of The Curry is a fiery, laugh-out-loud journey into South African Indian identity! This spicy and relatable one-man comedy show, inspired by true events, is brought to life by award-winning Cape Town comedian Jaryd Pillay. With sharp wit and raw honesty, he navigates cultural displacement, awkward race relations, and his own identity crisis—serving up humor with a side of realness.</div><div><br /></div><div>Because let’s face it—the curry just slaps differently with silverware.</div><div>Pull up a chair and dish a plate! You don’t want to miss this!</div><div><br /></div><div>Duration 60min</div><div>Age restriction 16+</div><div><br /></div><div>BOOK YOUR TICKETS ON WEBTICKETS NOW : https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1563115074</div>

Passion Of The Curry is a fiery, laugh-out-loud journey into South African Indian identity! This spicy and relatable one-man comedy show, inspired by true events, is brought to life by award-winning Cape Town comedian Jaryd Pillay. With sharp wit and raw honesty, he navigates cultural displacement, awkward race relations, and his own identity crisis—serving up humor with a side of realness.

Because let’s face it—the curry just slaps differently with silverware.
Pull up a chair and dish a plate! You don’t want to miss this!

Duration 60min
Age restriction 16+

BOOK YOUR TICKETS ON WEBTICKETS NOW : https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1563115074

INDIAN JARYD PILLAY COMEDY ARTSCAPE SOUTH AFRICA COMEDIAN

PASSION-OF-THE-CURRY-JARYD-PILLAY

PASSION OF THE CURRY | Jaryd Pillay

<div>On 22 May 2024, The Jive Funny Championship-finals were hosted at Canal Walk and lived up to the hype, with all the contestants bringing their A-game, big match temperament and of course, a pocket-full of jokes.</div><div>The winner of the Jive Funny Championship, a stand-up competition where fresh faces and gut-bursting laughter meet, will appear on stage during the 25th Jive Cape Town Funny Festival at the Baxter Theatre from Monday, 10 June to Sunday, 7 July.</div><div>Eddy Cassar, festival founder, started the championships 11 years ago, to create a platform for upcoming talent.</div><div>This year the championship had a massive increase in entries, 93 entries from all over the country and was said to be the most diverse entrants they’ve ever had.</div><div><br /></div><div>Our very own Jaryd Pillay, a rising star on the comedy circuit, convinced the judges he had what it takes and was crowned the Jive Funny Champ 2024.</div><div>He has been on the comedy scene for years crafting himself and preparing for the opportunity to take his career to the next level.</div><div><br /></div><div>Jaryd was quoted saying the following, after being crowned :</div><div>“I’ve entered Jive many times, never made it past the auditions and now I won. So, a pretty good day,” he said. “This means a lot to me, I’ve been doing stand up for a very long time, and this is my first ever award. This means the world to me, this means everything. I can’t wait to see you all at the Jive Cape Town Funny Festival.”</div><div><br /></div><div>We’re so proud of Jaryd for winning his first Funny Champ title and can’t wait to see him take his rightful place at the main festival!</div><div><br /></div><div>Book your tickets to see Jaryd at this year’s Cape Town Funny Festival on Webtickets now!</div><div>https://funnyfestival.co.za/</div><div><br /></div>

On 22 May 2024, The Jive Funny Championship-finals were hosted at Canal Walk and lived up to the hype, with all the contestants bringing their A-game, big match temperament and of course, a pocket-full of jokes.
The winner of the Jive Funny Championship, a stand-up competition where fresh faces and gut-bursting laughter meet, will appear on stage during the 25th Jive Cape Town Funny Festival at the Baxter Theatre from Monday, 10 June to Sunday, 7 July.
Eddy Cassar, festival founder, started the championships 11 years ago, to create a platform for upcoming talent.
This year the championship had a massive increase in entries, 93 entries from all over the country and was said to be the most diverse entrants they’ve ever had.

Our very own Jaryd Pillay, a rising star on the comedy circuit, convinced the judges he had what it takes and was crowned the Jive Funny Champ 2024.
He has been on the comedy scene for years crafting himself and preparing for the opportunity to take his career to the next level.

Jaryd was quoted saying the following, after being crowned :
“I’ve entered Jive many times, never made it past the auditions and now I won. So, a pretty good day,” he said. “This means a lot to me, I’ve been doing stand up for a very long time, and this is my first ever award. This means the world to me, this means everything. I can’t wait to see you all at the Jive Cape Town Funny Festival.”

We’re so proud of Jaryd for winning his first Funny Champ title and can’t wait to see him take his rightful place at the main festival!

Book your tickets to see Jaryd at this year’s Cape Town Funny Festival on Webtickets now!
https://funnyfestival.co.za/


JIVE FUNNY CHAMPIONSHIP JARYD PILLAY CAPE TOWN FUNNY FESTIVAL BAXTER THEATRE FUNNY CHAMP COMEDY

JIVE-FUNNY-CHAMPIONSHIP-FEATURING-JARYD-PILLAY

JIVE FUNNY CHAMPIONSHIP | Jaryd Pillay

<div>The National Arts Festival (NAF) was founded in 1974 and has become a highlight on South Africa’s cultural calendar.</div><div><br /></div><div>It’s one of the biggest annual celebrations of the arts on the African continent and is hosted yearly in Makhanda (previously known as Grahamstown) in the Eastern Cape, South Africa.</div><div>The Festival programme includes performing arts (theatre, dance, stand-up comedy, and live music), visual art exhibitions, films, talks and workshops and takes place across approximately 60 venues including theatres, churches, schools as well as various outdoor locations.</div><div><br /></div><div>This year Jaryd Pillay returns to NAF with his spicy, relatable, one-man comedy show, Passion of the Curry.</div><div>The show is inspired by true events and told through the eyes of a recovering narcissist and millennial – Jaryd Pillay.</div><div>Written and performed by Pillay – this is a show not to be missed and can be seen 24-29 June at the Graham Hotel.</div><div><br /></div><div>Baked Shakespeare presents : As You Like It will bring a company of professionally trained actors – including our very own Erin Gemmell, to perform Shakespeare… with a twist.</div><div>With an interactive concept using a similar structure to the Off-Broadway hit Drunk Shakespeare,&nbsp; Baked Shakespeare is set to make Shakespeare fun for the new generation!</div><div>Baked Shakespeare can be seen 27 June – 1 July in The Rehearsal Room in the Monument Building.</div><div><br /></div><div>This year the NAF will be taking place 22 June – 2 July 2023 with the emphasise on Transformation and growing apace with artists, helping one of South Africa’s biggest arts festivals to stay relevant and sustainable!</div><div><br /></div>

The National Arts Festival (NAF) was founded in 1974 and has become a highlight on South Africa’s cultural calendar.

It’s one of the biggest annual celebrations of the arts on the African continent and is hosted yearly in Makhanda (previously known as Grahamstown) in the Eastern Cape, South Africa.
The Festival programme includes performing arts (theatre, dance, stand-up comedy, and live music), visual art exhibitions, films, talks and workshops and takes place across approximately 60 venues including theatres, churches, schools as well as various outdoor locations.

This year Jaryd Pillay returns to NAF with his spicy, relatable, one-man comedy show, Passion of the Curry.
The show is inspired by true events and told through the eyes of a recovering narcissist and millennial – Jaryd Pillay.
Written and performed by Pillay – this is a show not to be missed and can be seen 24-29 June at the Graham Hotel.

Baked Shakespeare presents : As You Like It will bring a company of professionally trained actors – including our very own Erin Gemmell, to perform Shakespeare… with a twist.
With an interactive concept using a similar structure to the Off-Broadway hit Drunk Shakespeare,  Baked Shakespeare is set to make Shakespeare fun for the new generation!
Baked Shakespeare can be seen 27 June – 1 July in The Rehearsal Room in the Monument Building.

This year the NAF will be taking place 22 June – 2 July 2023 with the emphasise on Transformation and growing apace with artists, helping one of South Africa’s biggest arts festivals to stay relevant and sustainable!


Jaryd Pillay and Erin Gemmel National Arts Festival

JARYD PILLAY & ERIN GEMMEL | National Arts Festival

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm13373829/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1

<div>The Fix is a 2024 sci-fi thriller, directed by Kelsey Egan, who made her feature film debut with the Showmax Original Glasshouse,&nbsp; and was the most awarded film at the 2022 South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs).</div><div><br /></div><div>The concept for The Fix was in development for several years before being put to screen.</div><div>Production was originally scheduled to take place in 2019 but was postponed being re-financed and principal photography officially began in September 2021.</div><div>Test screenings began in February 2022 at the University of Pennsylvania’s faculty of Cinema and Media Studies and at the Cannes Film Festival, in 2023, it was announced The Exchange acquired worldwide distribution rights to The Fix.</div><div><br /></div><div>Set in a dystopian future Cape Town, with toxic air, The Fix follows a model (Grace van Dien, known for Stranger Things S4) who takes a new designer drug at a party and suffers a shocking transformation.</div><div>Pursued by forces with competing interests in the drug’s effects, she discovers that her mutations could save the human race.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Fix released on Showmax on 31 October 2024, and our actor, Van-Lee Johnson can be seen in this adrenaline-fueled original.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Fix is set for it’s North American release on Apple TV on 22 November.</div><div><br /></div>

The Fix is a 2024 sci-fi thriller, directed by Kel...

The Fix Van-Lee Johnson Kelsey Egan Showmax Glasshouse SAFTA Cannes Film Festival The Exchange AppleTV Sci-Fi Thriller Cape Town

THE-FIX-VAN-LEE-JOHNSON

THE FIX | Van-Lee Johnson

Mvelisa Mvandaba

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm6318790/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1

Sizo Mahlangu

<p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;">Warrior is an American Martial Arts Crime Drama, based on an original concept and treatment by Bruce Lee, and is executive produced by his daughter Shannon Lee.</p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;">It’s set during the Tong Wars in the late 1870’s in San Francisco.</p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;">The Tong Wars were a series of violent disputes among rival Chinese Tong factions centred in the Chinatowns of various American cities, specifically San Francisco. </p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;">The series follows Ah Sahm, a martial arts wonder-kid who emigrates from China in search of his sister, only to find out, she’s been sold to one of the most powerful Tongs in Chinatown.</p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;">South African actor, Nat Ramabulana, plays “Happy Jack” the African American leader of a drug trafficking ring on the Barbary Coast who enters a partnership with Young Jun and Ah Sahm. </p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;">Isaac, the ruthless lieutenant and “Happy Jack’s” right hand man, is played by Sizo Mahlangu. He is wary of “Happy Jack’s” dealings with the Hop Wei and doesn’t mince words when it comes to the Tongs. </p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;"><br /></p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;">We checked in with Sizo and asked him a few questions around the process of building the character, Isaac.</p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;"><br /></p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;">Q: What was the first thing you did after you got the call from your agent?</p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;">A: I’ve been a fan of Warrior since its first Season. After learning the news my first reaction was to jump around in excitement. I then began to imagine the character, imagine what world they come from and would live in. I re-watched the show imagining myself within it.<span style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none;">&nbsp; </span>Once we received the script, I went to the library and began to research the history of the Tong wars. It was fascinating to discover to events that led up to the forming of the Tongs. <span style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none;">&nbsp;</span>Furthermore, the historical significance and role they still play today. </p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;">After receiving a call confirming a job, the most exciting part for me is diving into the character. Keeping a diary as the character and changing or adjusting certain activities or chores to help further explore “the created world” of the character. </p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;"><br /></p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;">Q: Did you have previous knowledge on the Tong Wars and what can you tell us about the time when terror rained in San Francisco?</p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;">A: I am familiar with films pertaining to the story of the Tong wars, I was also a fan of the show prior to working on it. Working on this gave me the opportunity to have a much deeper and informed research regarding the events that led up to the forming of the tongs. </p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;"><br /></p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;">Q: What was your favourite thing about stepping back in time and doing a period piece?</p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;">A: Growing up I always enjoyed the ability of the cinema to transport one back into a world that used to exist or could exist in the future. The magic of the cinema is that everything is possible. The movies always inspired the games we played as kids, and we could be anything because the movies told us we could be anything. Getting the chance to be in a period piece gives you the opportunity to really be there. After working on the Warrior set, I understood why it all looked so real when watching it at home. Every detail you see is lovingly recreated to produce an authentic experience. I couldn’t help but say: “Wow! It’s just like the movies!”</p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;">Having to learn what the people ate or wore in that time are all important tools with regards to being in the true mindset of the period. </p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;">I would say my favourite moment was while shooting I walked through a fully dressed set of Chinatown, the extras, the costumes, the action in the street. It felt so real when you looked around all you could see was 1870s, Chinatown San Francisco. That was probably the closest experience to actually being there.</p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;"><br /></p>    <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;">Q: Describe your character, Isaac?</p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;">A: In the world where only the strongest survive, and the most ruthless succeed. Isaac understands this world. He is a foreigner in it too and understands that this provides its onset of obstacles, this then becomes his mission to overcome this and create a life for himself by becoming Happy Jack’s right hand man. He is a complicated and conflicted character, he is fiercely loyal, and will protect and avenge his enemies; especially those who come again the gang. His personal ambitions are beyond his current appointed role. This is in sight, and nothing can halt his plans…?</p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;"><br /></p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;">Q: This was a physically demanding role, tell us what your routine was to keep up with the physicality of the role?</p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;">A: I train three days a week. I go to gym an additional two times a week. I work out one to two hours a day. Most importantly I meditate, first thing in the morning and before filming a scene.</p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;"><br /></p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;"><br /></p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;">Warrior Season 3 , premiered on MAX on June 29, 2023, and is available to stream locally on Showmax.</p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;"><br /></p>  <p style="animation: 0s ease 0s 1 normal none running none; app-region: none; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-block: 0px; margin: 0px;">#WARRIORS3 #SHOWMAX #ICEARTISTES</p>

Warrior is an American Martial Arts Crime Drama, based on an original concept and treatment by Bruce Lee, and is executive produced by his daughter Shannon Lee.
It’s set during the Tong Wars in the late 1870’s in San Francisco.
The Tong Wars were a series of violent disputes among rival Chinese Tong factions centred in the Chinatowns of various American cities, specifically San Francisco. 
The series follows Ah Sahm, a martial arts wonder-kid who emigrates from China in search of his sister, only to find out, she’s been sold to one of the most powerful Tongs in Chinatown.
South African actor, Nat Ramabulana, plays “Happy Jack” the African American leader of a drug trafficking ring on the Barbary Coast who enters a partnership with Young Jun and Ah Sahm. 
Isaac, the ruthless lieutenant and “Happy Jack’s” right hand man, is played by Sizo Mahlangu. He is wary of “Happy Jack’s” dealings with the Hop Wei and doesn’t mince words when it comes to the Tongs. 

We checked in with Sizo and asked him a few questions around the process of building the character, Isaac.

Q: What was the first thing you did after you got the call from your agent?
A: I’ve been a fan of Warrior since its first Season. After learning the news my first reaction was to jump around in excitement. I then began to imagine the character, imagine what world they come from and would live in. I re-watched the show imagining myself within it.  Once we received the script, I went to the library and began to research the history of the Tong wars. It was fascinating to discover to events that led up to the forming of the Tongs.  Furthermore, the historical significance and role they still play today. 
After receiving a call confirming a job, the most exciting part for me is diving into the character. Keeping a diary as the character and changing or adjusting certain activities or chores to help further explore “the created world” of the character. 

Q: Did you have previous knowledge on the Tong Wars and what can you tell us about the time when terror rained in San Francisco?
A: I am familiar with films pertaining to the story of the Tong wars, I was also a fan of the show prior to working on it. Working on this gave me the opportunity to have a much deeper and informed research regarding the events that led up to the forming of the tongs. 

Q: What was your favourite thing about stepping back in time and doing a period piece?
A: Growing up I always enjoyed the ability of the cinema to transport one back into a world that used to exist or could exist in the future. The magic of the cinema is that everything is possible. The movies always inspired the games we played as kids, and we could be anything because the movies told us we could be anything. Getting the chance to be in a period piece gives you the opportunity to really be there. After working on the Warrior set, I understood why it all looked so real when watching it at home. Every detail you see is lovingly recreated to produce an authentic experience. I couldn’t help but say: “Wow! It’s just like the movies!”
Having to learn what the people ate or wore in that time are all important tools with regards to being in the true mindset of the period. 
I would say my favourite moment was while shooting I walked through a fully dressed set of Chinatown, the extras, the costumes, the action in the street. It felt so real when you looked around all you could see was 1870s, Chinatown San Francisco. That was probably the closest experience to actually being there.

Q: Describe your character, Isaac?
A: In the world where only the strongest survive, and the most ruthless succeed. Isaac understands this world. He is a foreigner in it too and understands that this provides its onset of obstacles, this then becomes his mission to overcome this and create a life for himself by becoming Happy Jack’s right hand man. He is a complicated and conflicted character, he is fiercely loyal, and will protect and avenge his enemies; especially those who come again the gang. His personal ambitions are beyond his current appointed role. This is in sight, and nothing can halt his plans…?

Q: This was a physically demanding role, tell us what your routine was to keep up with the physicality of the role?
A: I train three days a week. I go to gym an additional two times a week. I work out one to two hours a day. Most importantly I meditate, first thing in the morning and before filming a scene.


Warrior Season 3 , premiered on MAX on June 29, 2023, and is available to stream locally on Showmax.

#WARRIORS3 #SHOWMAX #ICEARTISTES


Warrior Season 3 Showmax Actor Sizo Mahlangu Ice Artistes

WARRIOR SEASON 3 | Sizo Mahlangu

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm8745615/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1

Amy Letcher

Katya Allan

Gita Fourie

<div>The Toyota SU Woordfees is a festival that transforms the town of Stellenbosch in the Western Cape Winelands into a whirlwind of energy and creativity as artists, audiences and communities collide in the celebration of theatre, film, dance, discourse, literature, art, music, and poetry. The Toyota SU Woordfees is more than just a festival and forms part of the division for Social Impact and Transformation at Stellenbosch University and is also the home of several long-term projects that make a difference in the lives of thousands of people.</div><div><br /></div><div>An all-night celebration of Afrikaans literature laid the foundation of the first Toyota SU Woordfees in 2000, but over the past two decades it has grown into one of South Africa’s largest multilingual arts festivals.&nbsp;</div><div>20 Years after the first all-night celebration the festival boasted with over 500 performances and events which were hosted in more than 70 venues in and around Stellenbosch.</div><div>In 2021, the festival made history during the Covid pandemic with innovative new formats and became the first South African arts festival to be presented on a pop-up television channel.</div><div>The Flikker &amp; Flash pop-up performances took place in empty shops and in the streets of Stellenbosch and was broadcasted 1-10 October 2021 and pioneered a second Woordfees TV Festival that was aired in July 2022.</div><div>This year an in-person festival will take place in Stellenbosch, 7-15 October 2023.</div><div><br /></div><div>A few of our actors and actresses, are part of the Toyota SU Woordfees in various capacities.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you haven’t booked your tickets yet, have a look at the list of productions below, where Ice Artistes’ actors and actresses will make magic on and off-stage!</div><div><br /></div><div>Bul – Cole Wessels (Costume Designer and Stage Manager)</div><div>See Muur – Conradie van Heerden (One-Man Show - Actor)</div><div>The Woman Who Fed the Dogs – Cole Wessels (Stage Manager)</div><div>Anglo Angst – Gita Fourie (Stage Manager) &amp; Jean Du Plessis (Technical Designer)</div><div>Die Francois Toerien Show – Devonecia Swartz (Actress)</div><div>Brandmerk – Miché van Wyk (Actress)</div><div>Is Als Oraait by die Huis van die Here – Miché van Wyk (Actress, Writer, Costume Designer, Music, Set Design)</div><div>Teen Wil en Dank – Cole Wessels (Stage Manager)</div><div>Tsekmate – Nequin Petro (Actor)</div><div>Pieces of Her – Miché van Wyk (Actress)</div><div>Die Dag toe Guppie Sweef – Robert Hindley (Actor)</div><div>Gin my die Genade – Cole Wessels (Production Designer and Stage Manager)</div><div>Afval – Jean du Plessis (Actor, Producer, Director, Set Design) &amp; Gita Fourie (Actress, Writer, Producer)</div><div>Tollie Parton – Cole Wessels (Stage Manager)</div><div>Jantjies and the Pearls – Miché van Wyk (Actress) &amp; Nequin Petro (Actor)</div><div><br /></div>

The Toyota SU Woordfees is a festival that transforms the town of Stellenbosch in the Western Cape Winelands into a whirlwind of energy and creativity as artists, audiences and communities collide in the celebration of theatre, film, dance, discourse, literature, art, music, and poetry. The Toyota SU Woordfees is more than just a festival and forms part of the division for Social Impact and Transformation at Stellenbosch University and is also the home of several long-term projects that make a difference in the lives of thousands of people.

An all-night celebration of Afrikaans literature laid the foundation of the first Toyota SU Woordfees in 2000, but over the past two decades it has grown into one of South Africa’s largest multilingual arts festivals. 
20 Years after the first all-night celebration the festival boasted with over 500 performances and events which were hosted in more than 70 venues in and around Stellenbosch.
In 2021, the festival made history during the Covid pandemic with innovative new formats and became the first South African arts festival to be presented on a pop-up television channel.
The Flikker & Flash pop-up performances took place in empty shops and in the streets of Stellenbosch and was broadcasted 1-10 October 2021 and pioneered a second Woordfees TV Festival that was aired in July 2022.
This year an in-person festival will take place in Stellenbosch, 7-15 October 2023.

A few of our actors and actresses, are part of the Toyota SU Woordfees in various capacities.

If you haven’t booked your tickets yet, have a look at the list of productions below, where Ice Artistes’ actors and actresses will make magic on and off-stage!

Bul – Cole Wessels (Costume Designer and Stage Manager)
See Muur – Conradie van Heerden (One-Man Show - Actor)
The Woman Who Fed the Dogs – Cole Wessels (Stage Manager)
Anglo Angst – Gita Fourie (Stage Manager) & Jean Du Plessis (Technical Designer)
Die Francois Toerien Show – Devonecia Swartz (Actress)
Brandmerk – Miché van Wyk (Actress)
Is Als Oraait by die Huis van die Here – Miché van Wyk (Actress, Writer, Costume Designer, Music, Set Design)
Teen Wil en Dank – Cole Wessels (Stage Manager)
Tsekmate – Nequin Petro (Actor)
Pieces of Her – Miché van Wyk (Actress)
Die Dag toe Guppie Sweef – Robert Hindley (Actor)
Gin my die Genade – Cole Wessels (Production Designer and Stage Manager)
Afval – Jean du Plessis (Actor, Producer, Director, Set Design) & Gita Fourie (Actress, Writer, Producer)
Tollie Parton – Cole Wessels (Stage Manager)
Jantjies and the Pearls – Miché van Wyk (Actress) & Nequin Petro (Actor)


Woordfees - ICE Artistes - Actors 

WOORDFEES

<div>Nuwejaar is a new 48-minute Showmax film, directed by Edwin van der Walt produced by Novieguide.</div><div>The film takes place on New Year’s Eve and despite being grounded, Nina (Minke Marais) sneaks out with her friends for a beach campout.</div><div>Before sunrise, the police find a body in the ocean.</div><div>Nina wakes up on New Year’s Day, unsure if the previous night was real or a nightmare.</div><div>Our actress and 2024 Fleur du Cap Best Student Nominee, Nichola Viviers plays one of Nina’s best friends.</div><div><br /></div><div>Catch this drama, now streaming on Showmax!</div><p><br /></p><div><br /></div>

Nuwejaar is a new 48-minute Showmax film, directed...

SHOWMAX NICHOLA VIVIERS NOVIEGUIDE NEW YEARS EDWIN VAN DER WALT FLEUR DU CAP AFRIKAANS DRAMA

NUWEJAAR-NICHOLA-VIVIERS

NUWEJAAR | Nichola Viviers

Robert Hindley

<div style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span>The Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees is a melting pot of expression and culture that annually brings together the diversity and impact of the arts in Stellenbosch.&nbsp;With this year’s theme, “share”, 25 years of action is celebrated adding to this word through stories, synergy and collaboration including everyone to be part of the experience. From 11 to 19 October 2025, a taste for every tongue and a story for everyone is celebrated. including more than 400 productions. The audience and festival goers are set to find and celebrate each other in a whirlwind of energy, creativity, books, writers, theatre, music, art, dance, discourse, films, and so much more.</span></span></span></div><div style="font-size: 11pt;"><br /></div><div style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span>The Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees began in 2000 at Stellenbosch University as an all-night celebration of Afrikaans word art. Over the past 25 years, it has grown into one of the largest arts festivals in Africa, attracting around 50 000 festivalgoers annually.</span></span></span></div><div style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span>In 2024, the festival transitioned into a Non-profit Company (NPC) with its own operational structures outside of Stellenbosch University.</span></span></span></div><div style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span>This structure enables the festival to streamline decision-making, improve cost-efficiency, and ensure long-term sustainability amid fluctuating arts funding. While the administrative and jurisdictional framework evolved, the festival’s vision, team, and identity have remained unchanged</span></span></span></div><div style="font-size: 11pt;"><br /></div><div id="Signature"><div style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span>THEATRE PRODUCTIONS TO WATCH, IN SUPPORT OF OUR ACTORS :&nbsp;</span></span></span></div><div style="font-size: 11pt;"><br /></div><ul style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><li style="font-size: 11pt;"><p><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span><strong>DIE KONING EN SY BRUID</strong>&nbsp;, Nichola Viviers as Writer and Director</span></span></span></p></li></ul><div style="margin-top: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span>Dit is die jaar 1745. Die hele Kaap van Goeie Hoop vier fees, want die boer Willem Aarde en sy beskeie bruid, Amélie Bruére, trou! ’n Bruilof beteken ’n erfgenaam… maar met die sluit van die slaapkamerdeur kom Willem en sy bruid van aangesig tot aangesig met onvermydelike, bindende en goddelike plig. <em>Die koning en sy bruid</em>&nbsp;is as beste produksie aangewys by die 2024 Première-fees en en het ook die pryse gewen vir beste teks en beste akteur en beste aktrise in ’n hoofrol.</span></span></span></div><ul style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><li style="font-size: 11pt;"><div style="margin-top: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span><strong>KINDERLê</strong>&nbsp;, with Miché van Wyk</span></span></span></div></li></ul><p><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span>’n Wrok, sê hulle, is ’n seer ding om te koester. Namas en Boesmans is mos vreedsame mense. Só teken die wit mense hulle op. Hulle baklei nie. Hulle gee af as     daar moet afgegee word en hulle vat nie. Soos Hanna het Maria ’n kjeent by God gesmeek en God het gegee. Dawid en Maria is vir Dammas gegee. Op ’n Sondag in     1867 word hulle kamp, Nona-Ams, deur Boesmans oorval terwyl die grootmense ’n kerkdiens op Besondermeid bywoon. 32 Nama-kjeeners, hulle oppassers en honde word doodgemaak. Dieselfde God wat vir Dawid en Maria gegee het, vat vir Dammas en 31 anner Nama-kjeeners terug. En gee en terugvat is erger as steel.     Dié stuk bied ’n Noord-Kaapse geskiedenis wat nie alombekend is nie. Met kwessies oor ma-wees, ouer-wees, geloof en ’n tragiese geskiedenis wat se letsels nou     nog op Namakwaland se rug lê.</span></span></span></p><ul style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><li><div style="margin-top: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span><strong>GROMMELS </strong>, with Robert Hindley</span></span></span></div></li></ul><div style="margin-top: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span>n Groot grys muur omhels ’n klein grys wêreld. Kleur is net ’n herinnering, ’n droom. Hier woon Geelgrommel en Blougrommel – die laaste kleure wat oor is. Toe     kom daar ’n dag wat nie soos elke gewone grommerigegrommeldag lyk nie… Wat gebeur as&nbsp;teenoorgesteldes mekaar vind? En wat wag agter daardie muur? Kom     saam op ’n&nbsp;speelse avontuur en ontdek hoe die natuur se kleure binne ons almal kan groei. Wenner van ’n Kanna vir Beste Aanbieding in Kinderteater</span></span></span></div><ul style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><li style="font-size: 11pt;"><div style="margin-top: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span><strong>&quot;KUNS&quot; </strong>, Jean du Plessis as Assistant Stage Manager</span></span></span></div></li></ul><p></p><div style="margin-top: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span>Buiten dat smaak verskil, is daar al menige argumente gevoer oor wat kuns is – laat staan nog góéie kuns! Die vriendskap van drie ou vriende – Serge, Marc en Yvan – word tot die uiterste beproef wanneer Serge ’n groot, duur skildery koop. Uiteenlopende menings oor Serge se kopie kring gou veel wyer uit as bloot net ’n waardeoordeel oor kuns. Yasmina Reza, een van die mees gevierde kontemporêre Franse dramaturge, se vlymskerp <em>Art</em>&nbsp;is een van die suksesvolste komedies in eietydse teater. Dit is al in 20 tale vertaal en het onder meer ’n Laurence Olivier- en ’n Tony-prys gewen. Dié produksie is bekroon met vyf Kanna-toekennings, onder meer vir beste produksie, beste ensemble, beste ontwerp en beste akteur</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-top: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span><strong>MOEDSWIL EN MUITERY </strong>, Cole Wessels as Stage and Production Manager</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-top: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span>Die Hertzogpryswenner Ingrid Winterbach bied in haar jongste teaterstuk ’n oneerbiedige blik op die Suid-Afrikaanse geskiedenis, kolonialisme, ontbering en private plesiertjies. J.R. en sy vrou, Maria, is per skip op pad na die Kaap om ’n verversingstasie te vestig. Blussing- Fermaak, ’n verstekeling op die skip, dreig om die sending te kaap en die skip na die Kongo te neem om van daar met slawe handel te dryf, of dalk ’n kruidenierskettingwinkel te open. Teatergangers kan hulle gereed maak vir ’n drama waarin alles nie altyd is wat dit voorgee om te wees nie. Met Winterbach se eiesoortige humor en ’n rolverdeling met topakteurs onder spelleiding van Tinarie van Wyk Loots, is hierdie ’n hoogs vermaaklike teaterervaring. Nie vir die fynbesnaardes nie.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-top: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span><strong>SEUN </strong>, Jean du Plessis as Stage Manager</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-top: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span>Dana Snyman deel in Seun die deel van sy storie waaroor hy nog nooit gepraat het nie: sy ervarings in die 1980’s. Dit is die tyd van P.W. Botha se vinger, die Voëlvry- toer, AWB-saamtrekke, onderhandelings en die laaste dae van diensplig. Dana word oneervol ontslaan uit die weermag, maar eers maak hy ’n draai in Saal 24. Dié rou, selfonthullende memoires vra: Hoe word ’n seun ’n man? ’n Seun wat nie ’n meisie se aandag kan trek nie? ’n Seun wat nie goed genoeg is vir die weermag nie? <em>Seun</em>&nbsp;is ’n aangrypende relaas oor grootword tydens die doodsnikke van ’n poli­ tieke stelsel, oor manlikheid en oor eer, en oor die liefde wat uiteindelik alles oorkom.</span></span></span></div><p><br /></p><p><strong><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO SEE THE FULL PROGRAM, AND BOOK YOUR TICKETS!</span></strong></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">https://woordfees.co.za/program/<strong><br /></strong></span></p></div>

The Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees is a melting pot of expression and culture that annually brings together the diversity and impact of the arts in Stellenbosch. With this year’s theme, “share”, 25 years of action is celebrated adding to this word through stories, synergy and collaboration including everyone to be part of the experience. From 11 to 19 October 2025, a taste for every tongue and a story for everyone is celebrated. including more than 400 productions. The audience and festival goers are set to find and celebrate each other in a whirlwind of energy, creativity, books, writers, theatre, music, art, dance, discourse, films, and so much more.

The Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees began in 2000 at Stellenbosch University as an all-night celebration of Afrikaans word art. Over the past 25 years, it has grown into one of the largest arts festivals in Africa, attracting around 50 000 festivalgoers annually.
In 2024, the festival transitioned into a Non-profit Company (NPC) with its own operational structures outside of Stellenbosch University.
This structure enables the festival to streamline decision-making, improve cost-efficiency, and ensure long-term sustainability amid fluctuating arts funding. While the administrative and jurisdictional framework evolved, the festival’s vision, team, and identity have remained unchanged

THEATRE PRODUCTIONS TO WATCH, IN SUPPORT OF OUR ACTORS : 

DIE KONING EN SY BRUID , Nichola Viviers as Writer and Director
Dit is die jaar 1745. Die hele Kaap van Goeie Hoop vier fees, want die boer Willem Aarde en sy beskeie bruid, Amélie Bruére, trou! ’n Bruilof beteken ’n erfgenaam… maar met die sluit van die slaapkamerdeur kom Willem en sy bruid van aangesig tot aangesig met onvermydelike, bindende en goddelike plig. Die koning en sy bruid is as beste produksie aangewys by die 2024 Première-fees en en het ook die pryse gewen vir beste teks en beste akteur en beste aktrise in ’n hoofrol.
KINDERLê , with Miché van Wyk
     ’n Wrok, sê hulle, is ’n seer ding om te koester. Namas en Boesmans is mos vreedsame mense. Só teken die wit mense hulle op. Hulle baklei nie. Hulle gee af as     daar moet afgegee word en hulle vat nie. Soos Hanna het Maria ’n kjeent by God gesmeek en God het gegee. Dawid en Maria is vir Dammas gegee. Op ’n Sondag in     1867 word hulle kamp, Nona-Ams, deur Boesmans oorval terwyl die grootmense ’n kerkdiens op Besondermeid bywoon. 32 Nama-kjeeners, hulle oppassers en     honde word doodgemaak. Dieselfde God wat vir Dawid en Maria gegee het, vat vir Dammas en 31 anner Nama-kjeeners terug. En gee en terugvat is erger as steel.     Dié stuk bied ’n Noord-Kaapse geskiedenis wat nie alombekend is nie. Met kwessies oor ma-wees, ouer-wees, geloof en ’n tragiese geskiedenis wat se letsels nou     nog op Namakwaland se rug lê.
GROMMELS , with Robert Hindley
    n Groot grys muur omhels ’n klein grys wêreld. Kleur is net ’n herinnering, ’n droom. Hier woon Geelgrommel en Blougrommel – die laaste kleure wat oor is. Toe     kom daar ’n dag wat nie soos elke gewone grommerigegrommeldag lyk nie… Wat gebeur as teenoorgesteldes mekaar vind? En wat wag agter daardie muur? Kom     saam op ’n speelse avontuur en ontdek hoe die natuur se kleure binne ons almal kan groei. Wenner van ’n Kanna vir Beste Aanbieding in Kinderteater
"KUNS" , Jean du Plessis as Assistant Stage Manager
Buiten dat smaak verskil, is daar al menige argumente gevoer oor wat kuns is – laat staan nog góéie kuns! Die vriendskap van drie ou vriende – Serge, Marc en Yvan – word tot die uiterste beproef wanneer Serge ’n groot, duur skildery koop. Uiteenlopende menings oor Serge se kopie kring gou veel wyer uit as bloot net ’n waardeoordeel oor kuns. Yasmina Reza, een van die mees gevierde kontemporêre Franse dramaturge, se vlymskerp Art is een van die suksesvolste komedies in eietydse teater. Dit is al in 20 tale vertaal en het onder meer ’n Laurence Olivier- en ’n Tony-prys gewen. Dié produksie is bekroon met vyf Kanna-toekennings, onder meer vir beste produksie, beste ensemble, beste ontwerp en beste akteur
MOEDSWIL EN MUITERY , Cole Wessels as Stage and Production Manager
Die Hertzogpryswenner Ingrid Winterbach bied in haar jongste teaterstuk ’n oneerbiedige blik op die Suid-Afrikaanse geskiedenis, kolonialisme, ontbering en private plesiertjies. J.R. en sy vrou, Maria, is per skip op pad na die Kaap om ’n verversingstasie te vestig. Blussing- Fermaak, ’n verstekeling op die skip, dreig om die sending te kaap en die skip na die Kongo te neem om van daar met slawe handel te dryf, of dalk ’n kruidenierskettingwinkel te open. Teatergangers kan hulle gereed maak vir ’n drama waarin alles nie altyd is wat dit voorgee om te wees nie. Met Winterbach se eiesoortige humor en ’n rolverdeling met topakteurs onder spelleiding van Tinarie van Wyk Loots, is hierdie ’n hoogs vermaaklike teaterervaring. Nie vir die fynbesnaardes nie.
SEUN , Jean du Plessis as Stage Manager
Dana Snyman deel in Seun die deel van sy storie waaroor hy nog nooit gepraat het nie: sy ervarings in die 1980’s. Dit is die tyd van P.W. Botha se vinger, die Voëlvry- toer, AWB-saamtrekke, onderhandelings en die laaste dae van diensplig. Dana word oneervol ontslaan uit die weermag, maar eers maak hy ’n draai in Saal 24. Dié rou, selfonthullende memoires vra: Hoe word ’n seun ’n man? ’n Seun wat nie ’n meisie se aandag kan trek nie? ’n Seun wat nie goed genoeg is vir die weermag nie? Seun is ’n aangrypende relaas oor grootword tydens die doodsnikke van ’n poli­ tieke stelsel, oor manlikheid en oor eer, en oor die liefde wat uiteindelik alles oorkom.

TOYOTA STELLENBOSCH WOORDFEES JEAN DU PLESSIS COLE WESSELS ROBERT HINDLEY MICHE VAN WYK NICHOLA VIVIERS THEATRE NON-PROFIT COMPANY NPC STELLENBOSCH UNIVERSITY AFRIKAA...

TOYOTA-STELLENBOSCH-WOORDFEES-2025

TOYOTA STELLENBOSCH WOORDFEES 2025

<div>Kelders van Geheime is e.tv’s first original locally produced Afrikaans daily drama, produced by former kykNET boss, Karen Meiring under KFilms; with former Arendsvlei head writer Theltom Masimila serving as head writer for the telenovela.</div><div>The series is filmed on a working wine farm in Simondium, between Stellenbosch and Franschoek.</div><div>It’s the first time a farm is used as a story in the format of a soap or telenovela.</div><div><br /></div><div>Filming started in January 2024, and are recorded on a working farm, not in a studio.</div><div><br /></div><div>The series is based on the wheeling&#39;s and dealings of the community that lives on Soebatskloof and focuses on three intertwined families: the Abrahams, Syster and Marais households. These families will have to stand together, agree (or agree to disagree), and work together to earn their bread and butter – and a glass of wine!</div><div><br /></div><div>Catch our very own Robert Hindley in the role of Armand Fox on Kelders van Geheime, on e.tv weekdays from 6 May at 18:00.</div><div><br /></div>

Kelders van Geheime is e.tv’s first original locally produced Afrikaans daily drama, produced by former kykNET boss, Karen Meiring under KFilms; with former Arendsvlei head writer Theltom Masimila serving as head writer for the telenovela.

The series is filmed on a working wine farm in Simondium, between Stellenbosch and Franschoek.
It’s the first time a farm is used as a story in the format of a soap or telenovela.
Filming started in January 2024, and are recorded on a working farm, not in a studio.

The series is based on the wheeling's and dealings of the community that lives on Soebatskloof and focuses on three intertwined families: the Abrahams, Syster and Marais households. These families will have to stand together, agree (or agree to disagree), and work together to earn their bread and butter – and a glass of wine!

Catch our very own Robert Hindley in the role of Armand Fox on Kelders van Geheime, on e.tv weekdays from 6 May at 18:00.


Kelders van Geheime is e.tv’s first original locally produced Afrikaans daily drama, produced by former kykNET boss, Karen Meiring under KFilms

KELDERS VAN GEHEIME Robert Hindley Afrikaans actor

KELDERS VAN GEHEIME | Robert Hindley

<div>***KKNK SHOWCASE***</div><div><br /></div><div>Robert Hindley does it again!</div><div>This time for his production, “Die Dag toe Guppie Sweef” which will be at KKNK on 1+2 April (this weekend!).</div><div><br /></div><div>Q: Robert, what draws you to Children&#39;s Theatre?</div><div>A: As an actor, I’m drawn to the challenge. Children’s theatre is no easy feat for a performer! Not only do you have to maintain an insane energy level, you’re also playing in front of the toughest crowd you can find. Naturally, all the effort is worth seeing the lights go on for even one kid during a performance. There is no greater testimonial to the power of live theatre than a child who is so immersed that they try to fight the bad guy themselves! Children’s Theatre is pure magic and it changes lives.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Q: What has been a highlight of your KKNK experience over the years?</div><div>A: The phenomenal productions and the festival atmosphere that Oudshoorn creates gets me excited every time. Aside from that, our magical run of the children’s production Jakkals en Wolf Onbeperk was one to remember.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Q: Which theatrical actors do you look up to and inspire you?</div><div>A: Anna-Mart van der Merwe will always be a great inspiration to me. Her constant professionalism is eclipsed only by her massive talent and her beautiful heart. From across the border, Anthony Hopkins will always inspire me to strive for greatness.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Q: If you had a Hollywood budget, what theatre production would you translate to film?</div><div>Selfishly, I think seeing Jakkals and Wolf Onbeperk fleshed out with all the bells and whistles on screen would make my heart very happy. In general, Hamilton would be absolutely epic on screen.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thank you Robert for bringing life and wonder to children&#39;s theatre!</div><div><br /></div><div>#iceartistes #KKNK&nbsp;</div>

***KKNK SHOWCASE***

Robert Hindley does it again!
This time for his production, “Die Dag toe Guppie Sweef” which will be at KKNK on 1+2 April (this weekend!).

Q: Robert, what draws you to Children's Theatre?
A: As an actor, I’m drawn to the challenge. Children’s theatre is no easy feat for a performer! Not only do you have to maintain an insane energy level, you’re also playing in front of the toughest crowd you can find. Naturally, all the effort is worth seeing the lights go on for even one kid during a performance. There is no greater testimonial to the power of live theatre than a child who is so immersed that they try to fight the bad guy themselves! Children’s Theatre is pure magic and it changes lives. 

Q: What has been a highlight of your KKNK experience over the years?
A: The phenomenal productions and the festival atmosphere that Oudshoorn creates gets me excited every time. Aside from that, our magical run of the children’s production Jakkals en Wolf Onbeperk was one to remember. 

Q: Which theatrical actors do you look up to and inspire you?
A: Anna-Mart van der Merwe will always be a great inspiration to me. Her constant professionalism is eclipsed only by her massive talent and her beautiful heart. From across the border, Anthony Hopkins will always inspire me to strive for greatness. 

Q: If you had a Hollywood budget, what theatre production would you translate to film?
Selfishly, I think seeing Jakkals and Wolf Onbeperk fleshed out with all the bells and whistles on screen would make my heart very happy. In general, Hamilton would be absolutely epic on screen.

Thank you Robert for bringing life and wonder to children's theatre!

#iceartistes #KKNK 

ROBERT HINDLEY performs at KKNK in Die Dag toe Guppie Sweef

ROBERT HINDLEY | Die Dag toe Guppie Sweef

<div>Get to know Robert Hindley as he shares his thoughts on his performance&nbsp;in Oom Bey, My Pa</div><div><br /></div><div><strong>How did you Connect with this character?</strong></div><div>&quot;As the characters I played were both real and part of memory, I connected with all the characters through their humanity. Whether they were a journalist in a park or a memory distillation of the late Beyers Naude, I immensely enjoyed tapping into their universal capacity for empathy, pain, fear and love.&quot;</div><div><br /></div><div><strong>What is your favourite Scene and Why?</strong></div><div>&quot;My favourite scene must be what our team refers to simply as ‘Adam’. In this scene, I get to jump between several characters in support of my co-performer’s character’s recollection of a traumatic event in the heat of Apartheid South Africa. With each performance we relished in the theatricality of the scene, as well as its content – it balances a reminder of the unjust political landscape of Apartheid South Africa with the confused and honest experience of a young girl watching it all unfold.&quot;</div><div><br /></div><div><strong>What was your take-out from this experience?</strong></div><div>&nbsp;&quot;Beside discovering (and taking immense pride in,) Beyers Naude as a true South African hero, this process gifted me with a refreshed sense of hope and courage with which to brave our future here in South Africa. If Naude, a simple pastor, South African, husband, and father, could set aside his own needs and openly standing up against injustice in the heat of Apartheid, then what’s stopping the rest of us to do what we know is right.&quot;</div><div><br /></div><p>*Headshot image by Mark Le Grange<br /></p>

Get to know Robert Hindley as he shares his thoughts on his performance in Oom Bey, My Pa.

How did you Connect with this character?
"As the characters I played were both real and part of memory, I connected with all the characters through their humanity. Whether they were a journalist in a park or a memory distillation of the late Beyers Naude, I immensely enjoyed tapping into their universal capacity for empathy, pain, fear and love."

What is your favourite Scene and Why?
"My favourite scene must be what our team refers to simply as ‘Adam’. In this scene, I get to jump between several characters in support of my co-performer’s character’s recollection of a traumatic event in the heat of Apartheid South Africa. With each performance we relished in the theatricality of the scene, as well as its content – it balances a reminder of the unjust political landscape of Apartheid South Africa with the confused and honest experience of a young girl watching it all unfold."

What was your take-out from this experience?
 "Beside discovering (and taking immense pride in,) Beyers Naude as a true South African hero, this process gifted me with a refreshed sense of hope and courage with which to brave our future here in South Africa. If Naude, a simple pastor, South African, husband, and father, could set aside his own needs and openly standing up against injustice in the heat of Apartheid, then what’s stopping the rest of us to do what we know is right."

*Headshot image by Mark Le Grange


Robert Hindley, Oom Bey, May Pa, Beyers Naude

ROBERT HINDLEY  | Oom Bey, My Pa

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm14317331/?ref_=fn_al_nm_2

Erin Gemmell

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm13613282/?ref_=tt_ov_st

Nicole Madell

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5114841/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1

Sarah Lazarus