Umtiza festival set ‘to ignite the arts in our city’

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The Umtiza Arts Festival has something for everyone - family activities, musical stars and theatre shows - right on the cusp of the National Arts Festival.

Running from May 23 until June 8, artists and organisers from across the metro have been working tirelessly to create a programme at the Guild Theatre, the Anne Bryant Art Gallery and the East London Museum.

This includes the Joy of Books Festival, pop-up markets, a night of music with the Bala Family, comedy shows by Barry Hilton or Jason Goliath and Tats Nkonzo, Dance of the DJ’s at the Summit Lifestyle Event Centre and talks by professionals and enthusiasts in the historical, environmental and creative sectors.

There is a “trashion show” of designs made from recyclable materials, as well as art exhibition openings, jazz and pizza nights, A Night of the Strings with the Eastern Cape Chamber Orchestra and so much more.

Professional chef Anna Middleton will have a pop-up dinner menu at the Guild Theatre on May 28, 29 and 30.

The operations manager at 043 Events, Ashley Martin, said the organising team was proud to be bringing some of SA’s top acts to East London, including the Bala Family.

“It is the first time that the Bala Family will be performing [in public] in East London,” Martin said.

“They have filled up venues in the country with their harmonies and angelic voices.

“We are looking forward to an afternoon of song and appreciating the talents that this musical family has been blessed with.

“The Umtiza Arts Festival aims to ignite the arts in our city.

“It is a combination of showcasing local talent and attracting the big names in the entertainment industry to our city.”

Celebrated performer Zwai Bala said the family was excited but nervous for the first-ever full concert with the family.

“Whether it’s at home, church or a funeral, it has always felt amazing singing together growing up and somewhat heavenly for an audience or individual experiencing this,” Bala said.

“It must be close to 10 years back that we were last in East London — the Bala Brothers performed at a launch of the C-class Mercedes-Benz [vehicle].

“The Bala Brothers, as a premium brand, is commonly associated with the corporate sector so I like to think of the upcoming show as the real debut to the public of East London.

“Audiences can expect familiar singalong songs and a concert filled with love and appreciation for good music.”

There will be a special moment dedicated to family members lost, including their beloved stepfather, Sebenzile Jafta, who passed away in February.

“There will be a tribute segment to family members we have lost as recently as uTat’uJafta, going back to the Covid-19 pandemic.”

A single from their upcoming album is soon to be released.

“We are also working on a special Christmas offering to be announced in due course.”

Skinny G Productions founder Nicole Suttie has planned a host of family-friendly activities at the Umtiza Art and Craft Market at the Ann Bryant Art Gallery on Sunday May 26.

“There is a massive focus on artistic expression, there will be a pottery wheel where you can throw your own clay, there will be a silent disco dance, indigenous games and storytelling, there is a jumping castle for the kids and a supervised kiddies area,” Suttie said.

“There is also an illustrative arts experience where someone tells a story and you draw along, there are also beading workshops.

“There is something for every child to enjoy.”

Open from 9am until 2pm, entry is R20 for adults and free for children, with each activity coming with additional costs.

There is street parking, with additional security hired for the event.

“There is a beautiful patch of grass to play on and we will have live music, food trucks and craft stalls set up,” Suttie said.

Live music includes bands such as Can of Worms, Urban Connection and Steven Daniel’s open mic act.

“It was such a family vibe last year, we had 200 families coming through the door and we are expecting more this year.”

Jen Bryson Moorcroft, of the Joy of Books Festival and Jen Bryson Moorcroft Theatre, has organised two interactive shows and storytelling for children at the Guild Theatre and the East London Museum.

“Theatre is magical to share, it’s very different to TV where it’s distant,” Moorcroft said.

“It’s so much more intimate and visceral and real, and immersive theatre for children — being able to take part and ask characters a question or solve a puzzle, makes it real for the children.

“We always get comments that parents enjoy it as well and see their children’s confidence grow and take part in the experience.

“We love being part of Umtiza once more, we want it to be relatable and diverse for all age groups.

“We believe Umtiza will grow from strength to strength, showcase the arts and encourage audiences to use the opportunities to see top quality shows and many cultural experiences, supporting local talent and having a meaning for experience in the arts.”