Brand South Africa supports the arts
JOBURG - Brand South Africa recently partnered with The Market Theatre to bring a show of classic jazz to life in a new fashion.
The Market Theatre has managed to gain support from Brand South Africa, by bringing them in on a production called Songs from Jazz Town, which premiered at the theatre on 20 November.
Songs from Jazz Town will run until 20 December, a stint that will allow for the fusion of old and new musical worlds, jazz and hip-hop, which will come together in a musical tribute to South Africa’s iconic jazz artists.
Manusha Pillai, general manager of communications at Brand South Africa, explained why it was so important for the company to support the arts.
“Brand South Africa is in the business of finding South Africa’s competitive strengths and positioning those with a view to improving the country’s reputation and perception,” she began.
“One of the easiest ways to position the country in this manner is through our arts and culture. Our arts and culture embodies the spirit of our people, the diversity of the various cultures in our country. It actually captivates our history.”
Asanda Bam, who made her debut at the Market Theatre on 20 December, as well as Gugu Shezi, Tshepiso Mashego and Nomfundo Dlamini, are the performers responsible for bringing the jazz numbers to the public.
They tell a tale of South African jazz music through the ages and take the audience with them on a journey through time.
The show, directed by James Ngcobo, is a production that aims to highlight the role of South Africa’s arts and culture and builds the country’s brand by encouraging the youth to embrace their talents.
“It’s about bringing to life that commonness [in sharing a love for arts and culture] with a view to promote the spirit of pride, patriotism and social cohesion. It’s just about seeing how we all fit together,” Pillai said.
Details: markettheatre.co.za
