Western Cape Arts Festivals

02/09/2026

CALLING ALL MUSICIANS IN KNYSNA AND SURROUNDING AREAS!

The Western Cape Arts Festivals (WCAF), in partnership with Ariva Arts Foundation and funded by the National Lotteries Commission (NLC), invites emerging musicians in Knysna and surrounding areas to apply for the 3rd edition of the African Indigenous Renaissance (AIR) Project!

This training and development programme is your chance to learn from ethnomusicologists, master crafters and experienced business management facilitators, then perform at the Knysna African Arts Festival 2027.

What You Will Learn:
• Indigenous instrument making and playing
• Traditional crafts
• Business, events, and marketing management
• Cultural storytelling, self-development, and festival production

Who Can Apply:
• Musicians across the Knysna District, including Rheenendal, Karatara, Hornlee, White Location, Concordia, Judah Square, Brackenhill, Harkerville, and Sedgefield.
• Preference given to rural youth (18–35) and women passionate about indigenous arts, culture, and heritage

Only 20 musicians will be selected. Successful applicants receive a monthly stipend.

How to Apply: Send your CV and portfolio (including a short bio with music links and performance samples) to [email protected].

For inquiries: Contact Thabo Tshelane on Cell: 084 894 6890

Be part of the movement to revive and celebrate indigenous African arts with the AIR Project in Knysna!

The AIR Project is proudly Lotto Funded. We extend our sincere thanks to the National Lottery players; your participation makes these "good-cause" projects possible. The National Lotteries Commission (NLC) relies on funds from the proceeds of the National Lottery.

The Lotteries Act guides the way in which NLC funding may be allocated. The NLC wants the grants to make a difference to the lives of all South Africans, especially those more vulnerable, and to improve the sustainability of the beneficiary organisations. Available funds are distributed to registered and qualifying non-profit organisations in the fields of charities, arts, culture and national heritage, and sport and recreation. By placing its emphasis on areas of greatest need and potential, the NLC contributes to South Africa's development.

For more information on the National Lotteries Commission, visit www.nlcsa.org.za

02/09/2026

CALL OUT : KNYSNA AFRICAN ARTS FESTIVAL (KAAF) 2027

The Western Cape Arts Festivals (WCAF), in partnership with Ariva Arts Foundation, funded by the National Lotteries Commission (NLC), invites creatives from Knysna and the Garden Route to apply for the Knysna African Arts Festival 2027.

Be part of a vibrant celebration of African creativity, culture, and community. Showcase your talent at KAAF 2027 from 20 to 22 March 2027 in Knysna.

Who Can Apply:
• Musicians, rappers, vocalists, bands and DJs
• Dancers and performance groups
• Crafters, sculptors, and traditional artisans
• Visual artists, painters, illustrators, and digital artists
• Creatives based in Knysna and across the Garden Route

What to Submit:
• Musicians, Rappers, Bands, Vocalists & DJs: Send your artist biography, a profile photo, and music links or video footage of your performances.
• Dancers & Performance Groups: Send your group profile or artist biography, a high-resolution photo, and video clips of your dance performances.
• Crafters & Visual Artists: Send your artist biography, a clear portfolio or catalog, and high-resolution photos of your artwork, crafts, or products.

How to Apply: Send your application to [email protected].

We Are All African.

The Knysna African Arts Festival is proudly Lotto Funded. We extend our sincere thanks to the National Lottery players; your participation makes these "good-cause" projects possible. The National Lotteries Commission (NLC) relies on funds from the proceeds of the National Lottery.

The Lotteries Act guides the way in which NLC funding may be allocated. The NLC wants the grants to make a difference to the lives of all South Africans, especially those more vulnerable, and to improve the sustainability of the beneficiary organisations. Available funds are distributed to registered and qualifying non-profit organisations in the fields of charities, arts, culture and national heritage, and sport and recreation. By placing its emphasis on areas of greatest need and potential, the NLC contributes to South Africa's development.

For more information on the National Lotteries Commission, visit www.nlcsa.org.za

02/09/2026

Music Video Shoot: Behind the Scenes

It’s a busy week for Beyond Busking as our artists take the next big step in their journeys — shooting their professional music videos.

Take a look behind the scenes of Jachin Klaasen’s music video shoot.

The music videos are coming soon. Keep an eye out — you don’t want to miss what these artists have been creating!

Jachin will be performing live at Beyond Busking Live: The Next Stage.

Come out and support him as he takes the stage!

Event Details
Date: 27 September 2026
Venue: The Loft, 31 Harbour Road, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Time: 18:30–20:30
Tickets: R120 via Quicket

Get your tickets on Quicket⁠: https://www.quicket.co.za/events/394239-beyond-busking-live-the-next-stage #/

The Beyond Busking Project is proud to be Lotto Funded. We extend our sincere thanks to the National Lottery players; your participation makes these "good-cause" projects possible. The National Lotteries Commission (NLC) relies on funds from the proceeds of the National Lottery.

The Lotteries Act guides the way in which NLC funding may be allocated. The NLC wants the grants to make a difference to the lives of all South Africans, especially those more vulnerable, and to improve the sustainability of the beneficiary organisations. Available funds are distributed to registered and qualifying non-profit organisations in the fields of charities, arts, culture and national heritage, and sport and recreation. By placing its emphasis on areas of greatest need and potential, the NLC contributes to South Africa's development.

For more information on the National Lotteries Commission, visit www.nlcsa.org.za

01/09/2026

Photoshoot Behind the Scenes: Ayabonga vocalist

A glimpse behind the scenes as Ayabonga stepped in front of the camera for his professional photoshoot.

The talent, the confidence, the presence — Ayabonga is ready for the next stage.

Ayabonga will be performing live at Beyond Busking Live: The Next Stage.

Come out and support him as he takes the stage!

Event Details
Date: 27 September 2026
Venue: The Loft, 31 Harbour Road, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Time: 18:30–20:30
Tickets: R120 via Quicket

Get your tickets on Quicket⁠: https://www.quicket.co.za/events/394239-beyond-busking-live-the-next-stage #/

The Beyond Busking Project is proud to be Lotto Funded. We extend our sincere thanks to the National Lottery players; your participation makes these "good-cause" projects possible. The National Lotteries Commission (NLC) relies on funds from the proceeds of the National Lottery.

The Lotteries Act guides the way in which NLC funding may be allocated. The NLC wants the grants to make a difference to the lives of all South Africans, especially those more vulnerable, and to improve the sustainability of the beneficiary organisations. Available funds are distributed to registered and qualifying non-profit organisations in the fields of charities, arts, culture and national heritage, and sport and recreation. By placing its emphasis on areas of greatest need and potential, the NLC contributes to South Africa's development.

For more information on the National Lotteries Commission, visit www.nlcsa.org.za

01/09/2026

Music Video Shoot: Behind the Scenes

Bethe B was on set today shooting the music video for her upcoming song, “Amy.” The professional music video is coming soon!

And there’s more — Bethe will be performing “Amy” live for the first time at Beyond Busking Live: The Next Stage.

Come out and support her as she takes the stage!

Event Details

Date: 27 September 2026
Venue: The Loft, 31 Harbour Road, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Time: 18:30–20:30
Tickets: R120 via Quicket

Get your tickets on Quicket⁠: https://www.quicket.co.za/events/394239-beyond-busking-live-the-next-stage #/

Don’t miss Bethe and the next generation of South African music.

The Beyond Busking Project is proud to be Lotto Funded. We extend our sincere thanks to the National Lottery players; your participation makes these "good-cause" projects possible. The National Lotteries Commission (NLC) relies on funds from the proceeds of the National Lottery.

The Lotteries Act guides the way in which NLC funding may be allocated. The NLC wants the grants to make a difference to the lives of all South Africans, especially those more vulnerable, and to improve the sustainability of the beneficiary organisations. Available funds are distributed to registered and qualifying non-profit organisations in the fields of charities, arts, culture and national heritage, and sport and recreation. By placing its emphasis on areas of greatest need and potential, the NLC contributes to South Africa's development.

For more information on the National Lotteries Commission, visit www.nlcsa.org.za

01/09/2026

Zanele: A Rising Star to Watch

Zanele Malakalaka Mzaca is destined for greatness. She is a star in the making.

Zanele has shown what it means to be a go-getter. Her journey is proof that when you are determined and willing to put in the work, you can pursue your dreams despite the challenges along the way.

While working full-time at KFC, Zanele still made time to participate in and successfully complete the Beyond Busking Project training programme. Through the programme, she received songwriting masterclasses, vocal training, music business education and other valuable skills designed to help her develop her talent and build a sustainable career in music.

She has now recorded her song “Hold On”, which will be released soon. Yesterday, Zanele took another major step in her journey as she shot the music video for the song. The music video is also coming soon.

This is only the beginning, and we are excited to see where her determination and talent take her.

Please show Zanele your support and follow her journey.

You can also see her perform live at Beyond Busking Live: The Next Stage:

Date: 27 September 2026
Venue: The Loft, 31 Harbour Road, Hout Bay
Time: 18:30–20:30
Tickets: R120 via Quicket

Tickets are limited, so get yours now and come support Zanele and the next generation of South African music.

Get your tickets on Quicket: https://www.quicket.co.za/events/394239-beyond-busking-live-the-next-stage #/

Doors and the bar open at 17:00.
Live music runs from 18:30 to 20:30.

Bring your friends, family and colleagues and come experience these emerging artists live.

Zanele's journey is just beginning. Be there for the next stage.

The Beyond Busking Project is proud to be Lotto Funded. We extend our sincere thanks to the National Lottery players; your participation makes these "good-cause" projects possible. The National Lotteries Commission (NLC) relies on funds from the proceeds of the National Lottery.

The Lotteries Act guides the way in which NLC funding may be allocated. The NLC wants the grants to make a difference to the lives of all South Africans, especially those more vulnerable, and to improve the sustainability of the beneficiary organisations. Available funds are distributed to registered and qualifying non-profit organisations in the fields of charities, arts, culture and national heritage, and sport and recreation. By placing its emphasis on areas of greatest need and potential, the NLC contributes to South Africa's development.

For more information on the National Lotteries Commission, visit: https://www.nlcsa.org.za/

31/08/2026

Our artists had the opportunity to record their original songs under the guidance of Ebrahim Mallum, a highly experienced music producer.

Watch below as Jachin, Gerard Brave, Bethe B and Zanele Malakalaka Mzaca share their experiences and reflect on their recording journey.

The Beyond Busking Project is proud to be Lotto Funded. We extend our sincere thanks to the National Lottery players; your participation makes these "good-cause" projects possible. The National Lotteries Commission (NLC) relies on funds from the proceeds of the National Lottery.

The Lotteries Act guides the way in which NLC funding may be allocated. The NLC wants the grants to make a difference to the lives of all South Africans, especially those more vulnerable, and to improve the sustainability of the beneficiary organisations. Available funds are distributed to registered and qualifying non-profit organisations in the fields of charities, arts, culture and national heritage, and sport and recreation. By placing its emphasis on areas of greatest need and potential, the NLC contributes to South Africa's development.

For more information about the National Lotteries Commission, please visit their website using the link in the comments section below.

28/08/2026

Beyond Busking Live: The Next Stage

Get ready for an evening celebrating the next generation of South African musical talent.

8 emerging Beyond Busking artists and 3 former Beyond Busking participants will take the stage for a night of live music, talent and entertainment at Beyond Busking Live: The Next Stage.

Date: 27 September 2026
Venue: The Loft, 31 Harbour Road, Hout Bay
Time: 18:30–20:30
Tickets: R120 via Quicket

Tickets are limited, so get yours now before they sell out!

Get your tickets on Quicket: https://www.quicket.co.za/events/394239-beyond-busking-live-the-next-stage #/

Please note: The ticket price excludes meals and drinks.

Doors and the bar open at 17:00.
Live music runs from 18:30 to 20:30.

Bring your friends, family and colleagues and come support the next generation of South African music.

Your support can help emerging artists take the next stage.

The Beyond Busking Project is proud to be Lotto Funded. We extend our sincere thanks to the National Lottery players; your participation makes these "good-cause" projects possible. The National Lotteries Commission (NLC) relies on funds from the proceeds of the National Lottery.

The Lotteries Act guides the way in which NLC funding may be allocated. The NLC wants the grants to make a difference to the lives of all South Africans, especially those more vulnerable, and to improve the sustainability of the beneficiary organisations. Available funds are distributed to registered and qualifying non-profit organisations in the fields of charities, arts, culture and national heritage, and sport and recreation. By placing its emphasis on areas of greatest need and potential, the NLC contributes to South Africa's development.

For more information on the National Lotteries Commission, visit: https://www.nlcsa.org.za/

Beyond Busking Live – Next Level brings South Africa’s emerging artists to the stage for a powerful night of fresh voices, original music and live performance.

27/08/2026

Listen to Zanele’s voice! She is one of the artists participating in the Beyond Busking Project 4th Edition.

What would you rate Zanele’s voice out of 10?

Listen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=haRmh77n4SQ

27/08/2026

Tag an artist you think should be part of the next Beyond Busking Project!

Selected artists will receive the following at no cost:

• Professional Vocal Training with a UCT vocal coach

• Stage Presence Training to help artists captivate and engage live audiences

• A Professional Songwriting Course presented by the Cape Town School of Songwriting

• Instrument Training, with a special focus on guitar and other selected instruments

• Professional Song Production and Recording in industry-standard recording studios

• Professional Music Video Production

• Digital Music Distribution Support, including assistance with registering and releasing music through organisations and platforms such as RISA, SAMRO and DistroKid

Don’t let an artist you know miss out on this opportunity. Tag them in the comments and let them know!

The Beyond Busking Project is proud to be Lotto Funded. We extend our sincere thanks to the National Lottery players; your participation makes these "good-cause" projects possible. The National Lotteries Commission (NLC) relies on funds from the proceeds of the National Lottery.

The Lotteries Act guides the way in which NLC funding may be allocated. The NLC wants the grants to make a difference to the lives of all South Africans, especially those more vulnerable, and to improve the sustainability of the beneficiary organisations. Available funds are distributed to registered and qualifying non-profit organisations in the fields of charities, arts, culture and national heritage, and sport and recreation. By placing its emphasis on areas of greatest need and potential, the NLC contributes to South Africa's development.

For more information on the National Lotteries Commission, visit: https://www.nlcsa.org.za/