Bells and Sirens 2 and As We Rise/#Me

Bells and Sirens 2

Choreography: Thapelo Kotlolo

Performers: Jabu Vilakazi, Keaoleboga Seodigeng

Music by: Thapelo Kotlolo

Description: A revised edition of Bells and Sirens commissioned by Sibikwa Arts Centre in 2023, this piece delves into the vibrant yet precarious world of queer club culture. It captures the sanctuary the club scene provides for young queer individuals, juxtaposed with the harsh realities they face outside this temporary refuge. Bells and Sirens 2 explores the tension between the freedom found in the club and the constraints imposed by societal norms.

As We Rise/#Me

Supported by the National Arts Council and the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture

Choreography and Direction: Gaby Saranouffi

Rehearsal Direction: Teresa Phuti Mojela

Performed by: Lucky Dance Theatre Ensemble (6 female dancers)

Description: This contemporary dance piece, premiering at Sibikwa, confronts gender-based violence and advocates for women to uplift and support one another. Through powerful choreography and an emotive narrative, As We Rise/#Me explores themes of solidarity and empowerment.

Final Urban Lab

Explore the Journey of Empowerment: The Final Urban Lab

Join us for the culmination of a transformative journey at the final Urban, Cultural, Democracy, and Governance Lab on April 20, 2024. Discover the impact of the Urban Labs project as we share key findings, insights, and reflections. Be part of dynamic discussions on community empowerment and collective action, and network with stakeholders from academia, government, and civic organisations. 

Don’t miss this opportunity to shape the future of community participation in local governance. RSVP now to secure your spot and learn more about this empowering event with Kelly Storom at conferences@sibikwa.co.za or calling 063 328 8025 / 011 422 4359.

Body Moves International Inclusive Dance Festival

Following a 2-week international inclusive choreographer residency, working with a professional ensemble of local disabled and able-bodied dancers, the new piece created will be programmed and performed as a double bill alongside the international choreographer’s inclusive dance company’s existing dance piece, followed by a facilitated post-performance discussion. Performances will take place in Benoni, Johannesburg and Cape Town. The festival also includes a hybrid dialogue on Dance, Disability and Democracy, as well as professional exchange and community engagement workshops.

Impande Zobuntu Heritage Festival

As part of this year’s Heritage Month festivities, Sibikwa Arts Centre invites you to Impande Zobuntu Heritage Festival—a dynamic event designed to celebrate the profound richness of South African heritage while embracing the vibrant spirit of contemporary creativity. This one-day festival is set to be a highlight of the month, bringing together people of all ages to engage in cultural exploration, artistic expression, and community connection.

The festival is designed to offer something for everyone, with a carefully curated program that highlights the diversity of South African culture and the innovative spirit of its people. This family-friendly event features interactive workshops, indigenous games, dynamic dance performances, a Traditional African Fashion Parade, and pop-up stalls offering Afrocentric products and food. Don’t miss this exciting day of culture and fun as we honor South Africa’s rich cultural tapestry.

Event Details:
Date: 28 September 2024
Time: 11h00-17h00

Location: Sibikwa Arts Centre, 13 Liverpool Street, Cnr Bolton Road, Benoni, 1501
Tickets: R100 for adults, R50 for 18 years and below. Group booking is available for adults at R250 for adults of 4.

Seriti Sa Basadi Festival

As a show of appreciation and celebration of the humility, strength and beauty in all women, this Women’s Month Festival offers pamper experiences, motivational talks, and self-defence, first aid, cooking and styling workshops for women to relax, share their experiences and learn, all while enjoying themselves. The day will end with exciting music performances that will bring the audience to their feet. Spoil yourself by joining us for a day of pampering, performances and celebration!

Sibikwa Book Launch

Join us for the launch of Sibikwa’s commemorative book Strategies for Survival at Sibikwa 1988 – 2021: Landmarks of South African History, celebrating over 3 decades of uplifting South African communities through arts, culture and heritage, and honouring all who have contributed to Sibikwa’s rich history.

Creative Industries Career Exhibition

Sibikwa invites Grade 11 and 12 learners and teachers to participate in an exciting opportunity to expand understandings of career paths and possibilities in the Creative and Cultural Industries, and ask questions to various education and arts institutions. While the Creative Industries are commonly thought of as performing arts and visual arts, there a host of related career paths available. Presentations by over 15 higher education, training and development institutions will showcase: Arts Management, Culinary Arts, Design, Digital Arts, Fashion, Film & Television, Hospitality, Lighting & Sound, Marketing, Advertising, Media, Performing Arts, Photography and Stage Management.

Marimba Jam

Sibikwa invites school learners and families to immerse themselves in the vibrant tapestry of African culture at our Africa Month event, where the rhythmic heartbeat of Africa will come alive through the infectious beats of a schools marimba band jam, engaging body percussion workshops, interactive activities and enlightening lecture demonstrations that unfold the historical and cultural significance behind the melodies. The Marimba Jam is more than an event; it is a journey of discovery, a celebration of unity through music, and an opportunity to connect with the richness of Africa’s cultural heritage. Join us for an experience that promises to be an unforgettable exploration of rhythm, creativity, and the boundless beauty of African music and traditions.

Thandiwe Wa Bantu (Anti-Bullying)

Sibikwa’s Khula Theatre Company presents a contemporary interactive issue-based play that seeks to create awareness and explore the realities of bullying taking place in our schools and communities. Using modern popular cultures, such as hip hop (rap), street dance and beat boxing, the performance presents this issue in a way that is both accessible and appealing to young audiences. The play employs participatory theatre techniques for engagement, reflection and dialogue; enrolling learners as social work students, and facilitating break away sessions for learners to explore topics in small groups and present their insights to the audience.

BODY MOVES 2023 International Inclusive Dance Festival

BODY MOVES 2023 International Inclusive Dance Festival

Embark on a transformative dance journey as Sibikwa Arts Centre presents BODY MOVES 2023 – an international inclusive dance festival. This November, experience a mesmerising confluence of continents, cultures, and communities, where dance takes center stage.

Experience able-bodied and disabled dancers coming together, showcasing the beauty, depth, and power of inclusive dance. The festival boasts a diverse range of performances from international and local troupes, interactive workshops, and a live-streamed discussion diving into the heart of inclusivity in dance.