National Arts Festival rewards arts community as festival closes

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Outgoing National Arts Festival artistic director, Ismail Mahomed.

ARTISTIC excellence was celebrated at the National Arts Festival on Sunday morning (July 10) when the winners of the 2016 Standard Bank Ovation Awards were revealed at a ceremony which also honoured outgoing National Arts Festival artistic director, Ismail Mahomed.

Commenting on the impact of the awards, Mahomed said: “The Ovation Awards have earned a significant gravitas in the arts sector. They have become a barometer for audiences and visiting arts managements about productions that should not be missed. Artists at the festival have been bold and have used their talents and skills to engage with burning issues in the most creative ways.” Continue reading

Competition for top young ballet dancers announced

The 2nd Prague Competition, a contest aimed at top pre-professional South African ballet dancers, has been announced in Cape Town recently. Qualifying dancers will compete for an opportunity to attend the 14th Prague International Ballet Masterclasses in August, 2016. The prize, valued at more than R40,000, includes return airfares to Prague, plus all other expenses paid. Continue reading