National Storytelling Day and the Nozincwadi Storytelling Festival 2021 is almost upon us! The four-day event, hosted by the Gcinamasiko Arts and Heritage Trust (GAHT), has an exciting programme that promises to have something for everyone.
Day 1 of the Nozincwadi Storytelling Festival will be held at the Luthuli Museum in Groutville where the keynote speaker will be Dr Elinor Sisulu, the Executive Director of the Puku Foundation. The programme includes poetry recitals by Ayabulela Nyawose and Kwazi Poetry.
Day 2 features a live stream panel discussion on their Facebook page. The GAHT team welcomes panelists, Dr Mshai Mwangola, Len Cabral, Xolisa Guzula, Travis Gale, Lebohang Masango and storytellers, Philippa Kabali-Kagwa and Gilly Southwood.
On Day 3 of The Nozincwadi Storytelling Festival there are two events:
- The daytime event will be held at our the beloved Storytelling Tree and will include a mini marketplace with crafts, books and food stalls by Athinga’s Corner, fresh produce farmers, and Gcinamasiko merchandise which supports their projects. The event will also feature drumming and music by Zinhle Madela, poetry by Hector Kunene, art workshops by Khehla Chepape Makgato and stories by Balungile Myeza. Free Entry – Donations welcome.
- The evening event will be back at the Durban Music School with a screening of international storytellers. There will also be more music and poetry as well as a keynote address from Prof Luvuyo Ntombana of the Nelson Mandela University.
The fourth and final day of the festival will celebrate National Storytelling Day (which also happens to be Dr Gcina Mhlophe’s birthday). The day will open with drumming, song and blessings. This day will be a bring and share day so do bring any dishes you enjoy making and sharing with others! There will be beverages, plates and cutlery provided. Free entry but donations are welcome.
The organisers say:
People all around South Africa will join us in celebrating this day and you can too, even if you can’t be on the Bluff in person. Wherever you are – tell a story, any story and you can tag us on Instagram or Facebook with the festival hashtags – #nozincwadifestival2021 and #nationalstorytellingday. We look forward to telling stories with you!