Latest news with #South Africa
The Herald
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Herald
It's opera time in Nelson Mandela Bay
After a show-stopping run that left audiences beaming — A Night at the Opera makes its long-awaited return to the Savoy Theatre in June. Presented by Impact Community Theatre, this beloved concert series promises another dazzling celebration of operatic excellence. Originally launched in 2015 by the then-Gilbert & Sullivan Society, A Night at the Opera quickly became a mainstay in the Nelson Mandela Bay arts calendar, winning hearts with its grand staging, virtuosic voices and crowd-pleasing repertoire. Now, after a three-year hiatus, the production is back — revitalised, reimagined, and ready to captivate audiences once more. The 2025 revival brings together a powerhouse ensemble of South African opera talent, both seasoned and emerging. Among the featured performers are celebrated local voices including Liske Hemingway, Lindokuhle Gushu, Kelly le Roux and Jabulile Ngowebu. They are joined by a new wave of rising stars, including Impact award winners Khuselo Gqiba and Lethabo Makuruetsa, as well as Nelson Mandela University's most promising young artists. Guiding the production are two stalwarts of the local stage, director Rose Cowpar and musical director Thuba Myeki. Their combined expertise and passion promise to deliver a show that is not only technically superb but also deeply moving. Audiences can expect a rich programme of operatic gems — from sweeping romantic duets to spirited ensembles. The line-up includes timeless classics from operas like La Traviata , Lakmé , Rigoletto , La Bohème and Così fan tutte . Signature highlights include The Flower Duet , Un di Felice , Song to the Moon , Brindisi , the nostalgic favourite Liefling , and the epic crossover anthem Barcelona . While the production certainly delights seasoned opera fans, A Night at the Opera is designed to be accessible for all. 'You will be surprised how many of these melodies you already know,' Cowpar said. 'This show isn't just for opera buffs — it's for anyone who enjoys beautiful music and passionate performances.' Performances will run from Thursday June 26 to Sunday June 29 at the Savoy Theatre. Audiences can choose between intimate cabaret-style seating or traditional rows. The venue also features a full-service cash bar and a coffee bar to round out the evening's experience. Ticket prices range from R120 to R150 and are available online via Webtickets. The Herald
The Herald
6 days ago
- Sport
- The Herald
Setback for jockey Eldin Webber's title hopes
Gqeberha-based jockey Eldin Webber was well on his way to the local Eastern Cape title, but has suffered a huge setback. A broken leg has put an end to his season after an incident on Monday morning at Fairview when he got kicked by a horse. 'The operation went well. They cut the muscle out and put the bones together. 'It was a clean break and no pins were needed,' Webber said. He explained that the incident happened when he was doing riding work. 'The horse behind me was a bit temperamental with the rider aboard. 'I moved out of the way to let them pass, but as I moved away, the horse started to kick me and broke my leg.' Eldin was already in good spirits when he was visited by the other Fairview jockeys at the Greenacres Hospital. He was jokingly asking which rides he will take up next week, but unfortunately he can now only sit and wait to see what happens in the title race. 'If they can't catch me, then I don't know. They are four winners behind me, and there are still two months of the season left. 'If I do win it in the end, it will be a gift from God. That's how I see it,' Webber said. Doctor Shaun January said Webber was expected to be discharged from the hospital on Wednesday. 'His recovery process will be 8 to 10 weeks,' he said. The title race is now wide open. Webber has ridden 15 winners, but three jockeys are in the chasing pack. Charles Ndlovu, Sandile Khathi and Yuzae Ramzan have all ridden 11 winners. Stallone Naidoo (8) and last season's champion, Kendall Minnie (6), have the more difficult task of catching Webber. The Herald
