THE Easter holidays are here, and there are plenty of fun events in and around Durban. If you are looking for something to do, look no further – we’ve got you covered. An array of markets and a dance performance feature on this weekend’s highlight reel. Here is a list of events that might just make your day!
Thursday, April 6, to Sunday, April 16
The Durban Catholic Players’ Guild is delighted to present the 15th Durban Passion Play, fondly known as the Oberammergau of Africa, at the Playhouse Drama Theatre from April 6 to 16 for a 14-performance season over Easter.
Performed every five years, the play is directed by Dawn Haynes and Jessica Wardle and strives to restore the true meaning of Easter. It is an epic-scale dramatic production depicting Jesus’ Passion, covering the final period of his life from his visit to Jerusalem to his execution by crucifixion and ending with the resurrection. It is performed by a large cast who volunteer their time and skills as part of their Lenten preparations. The play involves seven months of commitment from a 130-plus cast who receive no remuneration. Booking through Webtickets.
Friday, April 7, to Sunday, April 9
Upper Highway potter Andrew Walford is hosting his popular Easter Weekend open days at his studio from Friday, April 7, to Sunday, April 9. The venue is just past the Shongweni Farmers’ Market at B9 MR551, Shongweni. His studio will be open from 10:00 to 17:00. Refreshments will be available. Contact Andrew on 082 794 7796 for more details.
Friday, April 7, to Sunday, April 9
For the first time in its history, MTN Joyous Celebration will launch its new offering and album at Durban Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre over the Easter weekend under the banner of Joyous Easter Megafest. Presenting a three-day run, music lovers and gospel fans will be spoilt for choice and treated to a jam-packed extravaganza.
Starting with the presentation of Joyous Celebration 27 – the new album – on Good Friday, followed by a unique and curated evening of Gospel meets Soul and Jazz Supper Club on Easter Saturday, and culminating in the Joyous and Friends show on Easter Sunday, it is envisaged that a new Easter tradition and pilgrimage will be established. The Joyous Easter Mega Fest will start at 18:45 on Friday, 7 April, and end on Sunday, 9 April. Tickets are on sale at Webtickets and Pick ’n Pay Supermarkets from R250 to R2 000 per person.
Saturday, April 8
Enjoy a full day of entertainment and music hosted by Junior Lavie, powered by Ciroc SA at Piano Cast on Saturday, April 8. The special series of piano music by Stanky Dee Jaysa will keep you entertained. It is always about the vibes and giving you the ultimate experience. The event will start at 13:00 and end at 10:00 at Wish On Florida. Tickets are available at Webtickets from R100 per person.
Sunday, April 9
For a perfect Easter outing, board a fabulous vintage steam train on Sunday, April 9, at 08:30, 11:00 or 13:30. The ride will take you through the scenic, rolling 1000 Hills. Rumour has it that the Easter bunny might be hopping onto the trains with some Easter eggs. The Inchanga Craft Market will be in full swing with dozens of stalls offering family-friendly locally-sourced fare. There is also a food garden offering a range of light meals and snacks, a play area and a picnic site.
The Inchanga Railway Museum will be open for tours, and the model railway, Thomas and Friends, will be operational in the Modeller’s hut. All funds go towards completing the refurbishment of the flood-damaged railway line. The Umgeni Steam Railway (USR) is a member of 1000 Hills Community Tourism Organisation. Please note that there are no ATMs on site, or card facilities. Cash or Zapper is accepted. The Inchanga Station is at 1 Station Road. It is safe, and there is guarded parking on site. Visit USR website at www.umgenisteamrailway.com or contact 082 353 6003.
Sunday, April 9
The Handel’s choral masterpiece, Messiah, will be staging Easter Sunday at The Playhouse Opera on April 9 at 15:00. The world’s best-loved oratorio is attracting audiences from all over the world. The production will be accompanied by the Kwazulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra, and directed by Ralph Lawson. This staged production features well-known soloists and The Playhouse Chorale. The tickets are available at Webtickets for R150 each.
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