Theatre plays a vital role in educating, entertaining, informing and even escapism. But the sad truth currently is that we get to watch theatre productions only when artists have received funding from the government. These grants come once in a while and only a few get those.
Linga Creatives is a Kariega-based non-profit developmental initiative that uses theatre to promote education, social cohesion, cultural and traditional heritage.
“We provide theatre training to the youth, radio, music, dance and crafts. We also provide platform to high school learners and established artists to showcase their works,” explained Shafiq Kalumo, who is the founder and a director of Linga Creatives, as well as a performing artist, radio presenter producer and presenter.
“Our objective is to create a space where artists come together and share experiences with the greater audience. Theatre does not have much support in Gqeberha both from government and corporate sectors, or even from the community at large. This affects theatre producers in a big way; hence we have theatre of convenience and we are trying to break that. Because what’s the use of having theatre practitioners who will perform only when there are incentives?”
Linga Creatives together with UThando-noLwazi NPO used to host monthly music and poetry sessions in Kariega, but according to Kalumo, had to take a break owing to lack of support and financial constraints. “Now we focus only on yearly arts events which include two theatre productions, music, poetry and exhibitions.”
On Saturday, September 30 they are hosting their pilot project of Art in Me festival. It will take place at Isithatha Theatre in Walmer, Gqeberha, from 12:00 until evening. This event will feature Pain O’clock, a production by Cape Town- based Creatives.
There will also be local productions, one by renowned theatre producers Simphiwe Vikilahle, Shafiq Kalumo and two Stageworld theatre school students: Liyanda Tini and Bantu Dama.
“We will also have clothing stalls by KrimbaKrumba Pbw and Thrift Boutique by Tahirih Lunathi Fudu. The event will end off with Open Mic,” added Kalumo. Thanks to Isithatha Theatre for allowing us to use the venue which we wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford. Jikeleza Lodge in Central supported us with accommodation for our Cape
Linga Creatives guests. All five productions volunteered to share the stage for free just to keep theatre alive.”
Tickets are available online at webtickets or at the venue, at R50 per show and R100 for a festival pass. For more information contact the producer of the event Shafiq Kalumo on 074 663 1195 or lingacreatives@gmail.com.
