A Five-Day Celebration of Culture, Traditions, and Stories
Sibikwa Arts Centre is thrilled to announce the upcoming Stories Without Borders Heritage Festival, a captivating event set to take place from September 24th to 28th, 2023. Nestled in the heart of Benoni, the festival is a dynamic showcase of diverse cultures, traditions, and the timeless art of storytelling.
Embracing Unity through Stories
With a resolute commitment to quality education, production and advocacy of the performing arts, Sibikwa Arts Centre presents the Stories Without Borders Heritage Festival, an enriching experience designed to transcend generational divides and cultural boundaries. The festival serves as a bridge that connects people of all backgrounds, allowing them to share their stories, experiences, and heritage in an engaging and vibrant atmosphere.
Celebrating Heritage through Shared Narratives
The five-day festival unfolds at the Sibikwa Arts Centre, transforming the venue into a hub of cultural exchange and artistic expression. From September 24th to 28th, festival-goers are invited to immerse themselves in a journey of stories, culminating in a deeper understanding and appreciation of their own heritage and that of others.
Highlights of the Festival:
Day 1 – September 24th – Storytelling Competition:
The festival kicks off on Heritage Day with a storytelling competition that welcomes individuals aged 15 and above to step onto the stage and share their tales in their indigenous languages. To secure a spot in the storytelling line-up, interested participants can email Rudy Motseatsea at theatre@sibikwa.co.za. Performances should range between 5 to 10 minutes. This opening competition is open to everyone, with a nominal entry fee of R50. Audiences can witness the magic for an entry fee of R20 at the door. Prizes await the top three storytellers, with R3,000, R2,000, and R1,000 awarded for first, second, and third place, respectively, along with R500 for the most promising storyteller. Winners will also be given the opportunity to perform on the Family Festival Day.
Day 2 – September 25th – Family Festival Day:
The celebration continues with a day dedicated to families. Sibikwa Arts Centre hosts a vibrant family fun day that rejoices in traditions, culture, and heritage. Alongside the storytelling champions, Sibikwa’s Khula Theatre Company presents an array of children’s theatre stories directed by the renowned Mlindeli Zondi, known for his role in 1789. Families are encouraged to showcase their heritage through traditional attire and participate in a family fashion parade. The day promises an array of activities, including indigenous games, music, arts and crafts, and even a jumping castle for the little ones. Families are invited to bring picnic baskets and food for braai, with the event being alcohol-free and family-friendly. Admission for a family of four is R100, while individual entry costs R50. Tickets can be purchased on Quicket at link qkt.io/EpQuN8 or at the door.
Days 3 to 5 – ECD and Foundation Phase Fun Days:
The festival’s educational focus takes centre stage, inviting preschools and primary schools (grades 1 to 3) for a tailored experience facilitated by the Khula Theatre Company. Children have the opportunity to engage in 30-minute storytelling sessions, followed by song and dance workshops, games, and fun on the jumping castle. The cost is R50 for single entry and R30 per child for groups of 20 children or more. For block bookings, please reach out to Rudy Motseatsea at theatre@sibikwa.co.za.
Join Us at the Stories Without Borders Heritage Festival
Sibikwa Arts Centre’s Stories Without Borders Heritage Festival invites you to celebrate heritage, connect with others, and revel in the magic of storytelling. Through diverse activities, engaging competitions, and immersive experiences, this festival promises to create lasting memories and foster unity among people from all walks of life.
For Family Festival Day bookings, visit Quicket at link: qkt.io/EpQuN8
For more information, please contact Rudy Motseatsea at theatre@sibikwa.co.za.