The 49th National Arts Festival (NAF) in Makhanda was formally launched on June 22 by the Eastern Cape government. The provincial government has contributed more than R14 million to this year’s NAF, and this financial support is a part of the government’s commitment to helping the arts community, especially those who come from the province, to showcase their talent in this highly regarded NAF platform on a national and international scale.
The festival, which is currently in its 49th year, will reportedly feature more than 2400 acts over the course of eleven days, spanning every genre from theatre to dance to comedy to jazz to classical music to family theatre to film and more.
According to a report by the Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture (DSRAC), it is South Africa’s most dynamic and diverse festival, bringing to life the expression “there is something for everybody.”
“This marks the 21st year of the DSRAC’s support of the festival and part of the financial injection, is set to fund the Eastern Cape’s showcase for the artistic categories such as, Visual Arts and Craft, Lit fest (Literature Festival), EC Indigenous Dance and Music Ensemble, Official Opening, EC Jazz Festival (Previously known as Dakawa Jazz), Fingo Festival, Homestay Project and the Film Festival,” said the report.
The MEC for DSRAC Nonceba Kontsiwe, emphasised the value of the NAF to the creative industry. “The NAF has been a platform through which artists from home and sundry get a platform to express themselves for the past 48 years.
“For so many South Africans, the National Arts Festival is ingrained in our memories. As young children attending for the first time, as students becoming a part of the experience, perhaps appearing on stage, and as artists who produce provocative and fascinating work at the festival.”
According to Kontsiwe, the work of artists serves as a foundation for social cohesiveness and the expression of our collective stories. She said that its impact go beyond just the realm of the arts and culture.
“The arts are also an important driver of jobs and positively impacts tourism through events such as these. Beyond this, it is a source of inspiration for the people of the Eastern Cape who see their local cultural heroes return from global stages to perform at home.
“Through our financial support of the Eastern Cape Showcase, we ensure that Eastern Cape artists also have an opportunity to be part of this national celebration of the arts. We hope you will make more memories at the 2023 National Arts Festival, enjoying the warm hospitality and vibrant culture of the Eastern Cape during your stay,” said Kontsiwe.
Dr Siphiwo Mahala, who serves as the NAF board’s deputy chair, expressed excitement for this year’s NAF. “The start of a festival is always brimming with energy. It is always a major achievement to launch the festival. It takes a year of dedication, planning and pulling together a team who can successfully pull it off,” said Mahala.
The NAF is currently underway in Makhanda and will end on Sunday, July 2.
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