Latest news with #RhythmCity
The Citizen
17-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Bushbuckridge Film Festival: Giving accessibility and community inclusion through film
The inaugural Bushbuckridge Film Festival is one of the few festivals that encourage home-grown talent to nurture their gifts locally. Festivals, whether for music or other art disciplines, are often hosted in urban areas; hence, most creatives based in rural parts of the country are usually encouraged to leave and move to the big city to be recognised. Held in rural Mpumalanga, the inaugural Bushbuckridge Film Festival is one of the few festivals that encourage home-grown talent to nurture their gifts locally. The Bushbuckridge Film Festival is a flagship programme of the Bushbuckridge Arts Festival, established in 2023. The festival is steadfast in its mission: to champion authentic storytelling and nurture the next generation of filmmakers from Bushbuckridge and beyond. 'The festival is growing, and it's inspiring to see its trajectory reach new heights,' says festival coordinator Dipa Khoza. The festival is free to the public and has been ongoing from Wednesday until this Saturday. ALSO READ: 'Black Women and Sex': South African filmmaker wins at American Black Film Festival Bushbuckridge Film Festival's pillars The Bushbuckridge Film Festival is built on a trio of pillars: film screenings, hands-on workshops and industry talks. 'These components are designed to uplift and educate aspiring writers, filmmakers, actors, and producers, giving them meaningful opportunities to learn from and engage with some of South Africa's most respected voices in film and television,' Khoza said. Celebrated television legend Jerry Phele, whose breakout role was on Emzini Wezinsizwa as Mofokeng, will also be in attendance to share his insights. Former Rhythm City actor Elliot Sabelo Makhubo will also be present to share his industry insight. Born in Orinoco A, in Bushbuckridge, Skeem Saam actor Thabo Mkhabela will have somewhat of a homecoming at the festival. 'I'm honoured to be part of the Bushbuckridge Film Festival,' shared Mkhabela. 'It feels good to return home and contribute to a platform that empowers our local talent.' The festival is committed to accessibility and community inclusion. Screenings and festival events will take place across five key villages in Bushbuckridge — Manyeli Village, Utah Community Hall, Obrigado Hombesed Care in Zoeknog (Pharea Village), Hluvukani Hall, and Mabharule Village in Lillydale — bringing the big screen directly to the people. 'This grassroots approach sparks dialogue, fosters pride in local talent, and redefines what cultural access looks like in rural spaces,' said the festival coordinator, Khoza. NOW READ: It's World Emoji Day😊: From 😂 to why we can't stop using them
The South African
02-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The South African
'I'm shaking and teary,': Zenzo Nqobe's tribute to Presley
Seasoned actor Zenzo Ngqobe has penned an emotional and heartfelt tribute to his friend Presley Chweneyagae, as the nation continues to mourn his passing. Presley's death has left a significant void in the South African acting industry, with many expressing their sorrow since the news went public. The Mahikeng-born star, aged 40, passed away on Tuesday, 27 May, after experiencing breathing difficulties. Zenzo and the late Presley first crossed paths in Mahikeng, where their shared passion for the arts began, well before fame found them. They starred together in Tsotsi , showcasing an undeniable on-screen chemistry that reflected the deep friendship they maintained long after the film. In a heartfelt Instagram tribute, Zenzo described Presley as more than a co-star; he was a true brother and friend. 'Pres wasn't just my co-star, he was my soul's twin in this journey. His fire burnt bright, His laughter shook rooms, His spirit lifted us all. Now he rests, but he will never be silent in me. I carry him in every breath, every role, every memory,' he wrote. View this post on Instagram A post shared by @zenzo_ngqobe The former Rhythm City star, heartbroken over his friend's passing, shared his grief, writing: 'When the time is right, when my heart is steady, and my hands stop trembling, I will sit down and write you the tribute you truly deserve. Right now, I am shattered. In disbelief, shaking, teary. Trying to gather pieces of a world that suddenly feels dimmer without your light,' he wrote. In a heartfelt tribute to a bond forged long before fame, the actor reflected on the brotherhood that shaped their journey. 'Before the world knew our names, we knew each other's hearts. When Tsotsi happened, it wasn't just a career milestone — it was a sacred moment. A brotherhood sealed forever on screen, and off it. 'From there, life swept us into Gauteng, and again, we shared more than ambition — we shared space, struggle, hunger, hope. We carried each other through sleepless nights and long auditions, and later, into fatherhood and manhood — each step a testament to growth, grit, and grace,' he shared. He described Presley as a vibrant, passionate, and proud individual whose presence left a lasting impact. He also thanked everyone who supported and celebrated Presley. View this post on Instagram A post shared by @zenzo_ngqobe SHARE YOUR TRIBUTE HERE: Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 . Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
TimesLIVE
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- TimesLIVE
Jamie Bartlett's ex-wife actress Camilla Waldman remembers the late star on his death anniversary
Friday marks three years since Jamie Bartlett died and his family remains distraught over the sudden loss of the actor. Jamie, who was popularly known for his David Genaro character in Rhythm City, died on May 23 2022 aged 55 after suffering cardiac arrest. Jamie's ex-wife actress Camilla Waldman, who has a son with the late star, took to her timeline honouring him on his death anniversary. 'Dear Jamie Bartlett, we remember you, friend. It has been three years since you left. We remember you, as a son, a brother, a father, a partner, a cousin, a friend, an actor. One of the last books I knew you to be reading was CS Lewis' Surprised by Joy. In God's book, endings are preludes to new beginnings. May you now, Jamie, be surprised by joy. You are missed,' she wrote.
