In celebration of Africa Day (May 25), from May 27 - 29, Johannesburg will enjoy a weekend festival like no other: Sanaa Africa, The Spirit of Celebration will embrace Africa’s rhythmic heart and vibrant soul by hosting some of the continent’s most exhilarating art, entertainment, music and more. The weekend’s festivities will be hosted in and around moyo Zoo Lake, when their internal and external
space comes alive with vibrant art works, buskers, poetry readers, live puppet performances, film viewings and a dedicated kids’ area. There’s something for everyone, and arts and culture aficionados can expect some top-notch talent from high-end African art exhibited throughout moyo Zoo Lake restaurant against the space’s contemporary backdrop. Also, the artists will host an area where interested art buyers can enjoy coffee and, at the same time, speak to them about their art works. Eclectic live performances from buskers playing African beats will be heard throughout the venue, and resonate across Zoo Lake. A dedicated kids’ area will keep the little ones entertained while parents have an African inspired meal, listen to poetry readings and an afro-centric version of Romeo and Juliet performed with over-sized puppets; plus loads more. The festival organizers are two highly passionate and dedicated women, namely Nonhlanhla Matshazi, director and founder of Sanaa Africa and Pia-Storm Kay, project manager.
“Africa Day pays homage to this magical continent and its amazingly talented people, which is why we created the festival Sanaa Africa, The Spirit of Celebration. It has been endorsed by the City of Joburg as their official Africa Day event while moyo, has come on board to offer one of their outlets – moyo Zoo Lake ,as the perfect space and setting to host all the activities that run throughout the festival. Sanaa Africa is a multicultural culmination of all that defines this land - African art, culture and entertainment, celebrating our rich heritage,” says Matshazi, who is also the person responsible for coming up with the festival’s concept. She adds that “Sanaa Africa is the first of its kind celebrating Africa Day in such an all-encompassing manner, which is all at once contemporary and up market. One could say that the festival is a veritable feast for the eyes, ears and soul.”
For more information and the full festival programme go to the website: www.sanaaafrica.com
