The seventh African Women Writers Symposium (AWWS), supported by the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture (DSAC) and produced by Afro Arts SA, in partnership with the AmaZulu Gardens, presents a special Afro Jazz concert and poetry show on Sunday, 12 December, at the AmaZulu Gardens and Sculpture Precinct in Kloof, from 2pm to 5pm.
This is the first time that the programme comes to Durban, it is usually only hosted in Johannesburg, and it is part of AWWS’s 16 Days of Activism campaign. The organisers have made sure it will be one to remember by bringing a stunning line-up with a great selection of headlining artists such as trombone player, vocalist, lyricist and songwriter, Siya Makuzeni, and her trio.
Makuzeni has many achievements to her name such as Johnnie Walker Ambassador (2019), British Council Commissioned Composer (2018) and Standard Bank Young Artist for Jazz 2016 recipient. The young talent has regularly collaborated with A-list South African musicians such as Themba Mkhize, Afrika Mkhize, Feya Faku, Khaya Mahlangu, Abigail Khubeka, the late Sibongile Khumalo, and has featured in Grammy award artists’ performances from the likes of David Murray, Jacky Terrasson and Branford Marsalis.
Also featuring in the concert is legendary guitar maestro, Bheki Khoza, backed by his band and featuring jazz vocalist, Xolisa Dlamini, and Zimbabwean singer and imbira player, Hope Masike. The line-up is completed by three well-established authors and performing poets Thando Fuze and Sindiswa ‘Lady Africa’ Zulu from Durban and Luleka Mhlanzi from Pietermaritzburg. “We always have been wanting to bring our Women Writers Symposium to Durban and are delighted to finally have been granted the opportunity to do so. We are looking forward to bringing Durban audiences this wonderful combination of music and words,” said organiser, Roshnie Moonsammy.
Strict Covid-19 protocols will be followed and no weapons, food or drinks will be allowed into the venue. Food and refreshments will be on sale and limited parking will be made available at the venue. Alternative free parking will be available at the St Agnes Church, 53 Abelia Road, Kloof, and there will be a cheap shuttle service to the venue and back. For more information on the African Women Writers Symposium and the Afro Jazz AmaZulu Gardens in Kloof, please visit www.sfroarts.co.za.
