Soweto Theatre once again becomes a sacred meeting ground for memory, resistance, and imagination as it hosts the Gibson Kente Annual Lecture — a powerful tribute to the life and enduring legacy of Gibson Kente, the visionary playwright, composer, director, and cultural activist widely celebrated as the Father of Black Theatre in South Africa. This […]
Johannesburg’s creative industry continues to shape the cultural heartbeat of South Africa, and at the centre of this movement is live music. While artists shine on stage, it is the skilled professionals behind the scenes who ensure that every performance, festival, and tour comes to life. Live Music Lab 2026 is an impactful opportunity designed
Live Music Lab 2026: Building the Future of South Africa’s Live Music Industry Read More »
Welcome to the January 2026 edition of Imbizo Magazine, and to a new year shaped by reflection, renewal, and bold creative intention. As we step into 2026, we remain grounded in culture and driven by a responsibility to document, celebrate, and challenge African creativity in all its forms. This year calls for clarity of purpose,
Editor’s Note | January 2026 Read More »
From a young age, music was an ever-pervading force and presence in Mimi Mtshali’s life. It lived in her home, in the harmonies of church, and in the excitement of school competitions. By the age of 12, she already knew she loved music. It was more than a hobby — it was a space where
MIMI MTSHALI — A VOICE THAT HEALS, TEACHES,AND LEADS Read More »
Heritage is more than history — it is memory, identity, and lived experience passed down through generations. In an important move to preserve and reimagine cultural narratives across the region, the Africa-Europe Partnerships for Culture: Southern Africa (AEPC) has officially opened a Call for Proposals inviting organisations to apply for grants aimed at the co-creation
When a legend speaks, the culture listens and this time, Thandiswa Mazwai isn’t just performing, she’s creating space. On 28 February 2026, Carnival City will come alive with the inaugural Sankofa Heritage Festival, a powerful new cultural movement dedicated to preserving, celebrating and reimagining indigenous African music. More than just a festival, Sankofa is a
Thandiswa Mazwai Opens the Gates for a New Generation at the Sankofa Heritage Festival Read More »
The entertainment industry has once again been forced to confront an uncomfortable truth — the persistent culture of body shaming and its devastating impact on artists’ mental health. The songstress Thatohatsi recently broke her silence after being body-shamed by Nota and Sfiso, an incident that has sparked widespread concern and conversation across social media. In
Imbizo celebrates Sjika Da Thirdborn and Kingsbuda’s moment on a national comedy stage. The Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards have officially unveiled their Top 20 Newcomer Comedians for 2026, and the list reflects the bold, diverse and fearless voices shaping the future of South African comedy. Among the selected comedians are Sjika Da Thirdborn and
Comics Choice Awards Announce Official Top 20 Comedians List Read More »
For many arts organisations, funding is more than financial support — it is the difference between survival and sustainability, between passion projects and job-creating creative enterprises. The National Arts Council (NAC) Arts Organisation Support Funding (AOSF) Programme for 2025/26–2027/28 offers a powerful opportunity for arts organisations across South Africa to strengthen their work, grow their
Funding That Builds Futures: NAC Arts Organization Support Funding 2025–2028 Read More »
Some artists leave behind music. Others leave behind love, memories, and a community forever changed. Born Mxolisi Lepele, and known to the world as Papa Koli, he was one of those rare human beings whose impact went far beyond hip hop. An East Rand artist, cultural contributor, and brother to many, Papa Koli’s passing has