Weekly diary | Weeklikse dagboek

WEDNESDAY 4 FEBRUARY

 Somerset West: Instead of his usual saxophone performance, renowned musician and composer Andrew Young will share the inspiring story behind his extraordinary musical journey at the UNIVERSITY OF THE THIRD AGE (U3A) HELDERBERG’S monthly meeting. From a young boy torn between soccer and music in Liverpool to performing before royalty and presidents worldwide, Young’s tale reveals how a childhood dream became reality beyond expectations. Discover the “inside story” of the acclaimed artist’s path from army band member to international soloist, including his formative years in Germany and South Africa, where he first tasted solo success. The gathering takes place at the Helderberg Dutch Reformed church in Firmount Road at 10:00. U3A members are welcome free of charge; visitors will pay R20 at the door. Members can collect their badges from 09:15. For enquiries, phone Denise Fourie on 072 211 1173.

THURSDAY 5 FEBRUARY

Somerset West: Art enthusiasts and collectors are invited to an exclusive Cheese and Wine evening featuring a remarkable auction at THE ART GALLERY @ROOT 44. The highlight of the evening will be the auction of an extraordinary painting by acclaimed local artist “Bousie”, a monumental 2,6-m hyper-realistic oil painting entitled Supper with Madiba. This significant political-historical artwork, which took the artist three years to complete, features Nelson Mandela alongside several ANC stalwarts and has never been offered to the market before. The piece is expected to fetch upwards of R800 000, which would represent a remarkable achievement for a living South African artist and underscore the growing recognition of local contemporary talent. In addition to Bousie’s masterpiece, the auction will feature what is believed to be the largest privately-owned collection of Frans Claerhout oil paintings. This exceptional collection carries a reserve of R900 000, though industry experts suggest it could achieve as much as R3 million with the right bidders attending.The evening will also showcase various works by other celebrated South African master artists, offering collectors a rare opportunity to acquire significant pieces from the country’s artistic heritage. For enquiries, send an email to sa-artproject@hotmail.com.

SATURDAY 7 FEBRUARY

Somerset West: Join the SOMERSET WEST UNITARIAN FELLOWSHIP at the meeting room of Vonke House in Lourensford Road at 10:00, for an extraordinary spiritual journey to Thaba-Bosiu, the sacred mountain fortress of Lesotho. Ubuntu-rooted educators and community development practitioners Theo and Thandi Mayekiso will share fascinating insights from their recent fact-finding mission to the site. Thaba-Bosiu, meaning “mountain of the night”, holds profound spiritual, historical and cultural importance for the Basotho people. The presentation explores the heritage and enduring significance of the remarkable mountain that has shaped a nation’s identity. Whether you’re interested in African spirituality, cultural heritage or simply love discovering new perspectives, the gathering promises to enlighten and inspire. All welcome. Call Rev Roux Malan on 084 679 5466 or visit https://swunitarians.carrd.co.

Gordon’s Bay: NDIZA GALLERY at Krystal Beach Hotel presents the debut solo exhibition of self-taught artist Andy Louw. First Brush showcases fearless, uninhibited works that celebrate creativity and imagination through bold colour and innovative shapes. The launch celebrates art without boundaries, proof that creativity thrives outside formal instruction, from 11:00 to 14:00. The exhibition catalogue is available on request. Refreshments will be served. RSVP to Michele Sinclair on 076 228 5046 or michele@ndizagallery.com.

Strand: The NURUL-ISLAM MASJID in Faure Street reaches a remarkable milestone this year as it celebrates its centenary, 100 years of serving the local Muslim community. To commemorate this momentous occasion, the mosque will host a special pre-Ramadan Expo at the Strand Town Hall. The event promises to bring the community together in celebration of this significant anniversary whilst preparing for the holy month ahead. For more information about this historic celebration or to get involved, phone Mawlana Hasan Labuschagne on 061 472 4211 or Shudley Adams on 084 434 3457.

MAANDAG 9 FEBRUARIE

Strand: Die CHRISTELIKE AFHANKLIKHEIDSDIENS, of Christians Against Drugs (CAD), nooi mense wat probleme met middelafhanklikheid het na hul byeenkoms om 19:00 in die kerksaal van die NG kerk Strand Moedergemeente, op die hoek van Birkenhead- en Faganstraat. Rig alle navrae aan Gerrie by 073 336 3119 of Werner by 082 826 0972.

FRIDAY 13 FEBRUARY

Somerset West: The UNIVERSITY OF THE THIRD AGE (U3A) proudly presents the launch of “South Africa Today”, a new monthly initiative offering an open and inclusive platform for knowledgeable speakers to share insights on current South African affairs. This innovative programme focuses on information sharing and perspective exchange whilst avoiding contentious debates, and also provides opportunities for community members to suggest topical subjects for future discussions. The inaugural session will feature Anton Bredell, Minister of Local Government, Environment Affairs and Development Planning, who will address “The Challenges and Frustrations of Local Governance”. This promises to be an enlightening presentation offering valuable insights into the complexities of local government from someone at the heart of provincial administration. The meeting will take place at Somerset West United Church, on the corner of Andries Pretorius and Bright Street, from 14:00 to 15:30. Parking is available at the rear of the church building and at the Bright Street entrance, with gates opening automatically upon approach. U3A members are requested to wear their membership cards and contribute R10, while non-members are welcome to attend for R15. For registration and enquiries, contact Danie Schoeman at dschoeman2745@gmail.com or via WhatsApp on 082 783 9582.

FRIDAY 13 AND SATURDAY 14 FEBRUARY

Somerset West: The Cape Classic returns to MORGENSTER ESTATE for two evenings of chamber music featuring internationally acclaimed musicians Thomas Richter (traverse flute), Karlheinz Busch (violoncello), and South African pianist Erika le Roux.
Founded over two decades ago by classical music patron Gabi Zahn, this intimate festival combines exceptional performances with philanthropy, as all ticket proceeds support educational initiatives for previously disadvantaged children in the Western Cape, having raised approximately R2,5 million to date.
Set against the stunning backdrop of rolling vineyards and mountain views, the concerts will present Classical Era works by Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven on Friday evening, followed by Early Romantic pieces by Donizetti, Chopin and Mendelssohn-Bartholdy on Saturday, with tickets priced at R900 per person available via ticket-sa@cape-classic.com or by contacting Judika Nel on 021 852 1738.

SATURDAY 21 FEBRUARY

Somerset West: Artist Estelle Kenyon invites painters of all levels to explore mixed media techniques at the conference centre of the HELDERBERG NATURE RESERVE from 09:30 to 15:30. The workshop welcomes beginner to professional artists, offering guidance in acrylics, stencils, spray paint and collage work with optional oils in the reserve’s natural setting. The R750 fee includes all materials, demos, guidance and light refreshments, though participants are advised to take their own lunch. Feel free to book online at www.estellekenyon.com, send a WhatsApp message to 082 928 3797 or email estellekenyon017@gmail.com.

• Submit community events, gatherings and meetings for the diary by sending an email to jamey.thomas@novusmedia.co.za.