As part of the City’s ‘New Voices’ programme, emerging artists were given the opportunity to share their stories at the Artscape Theatre this week.
The programme, which is supported by Cape Town’s Arts and Culture branch, aims to mentor budding scriptwriters to create original works, recognising the influential role storytellers play globally.
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Facilitated by the City’s Cultural Mapping Planning and Arts Aweh! initiatives, the goal of the course was for the artists to weave narratives from their own experiences and perspectives, shaped by their personal histories and the world around them.
Councillor Patricia van der Ross, the City’s mayoral committee member for community services and health, stated, ‘The City is a proud supporter of the programme, which not only gives a voice to new creatives but also gives them an opportunity to introduce their work to new audiences. The benefits of the arts do not only reinforce our cultural identity but also contribute to our well-being.’

Participants who shared their stories at Tuesday’s event include:
- Cohen Erasmus from Manenberg
- Abdullatief Davids from Mitchells Plain
- Anthea Juries from Belhar
- Chay Botman from Athlone
- Keezin Mosime from Athlone
- Zelda Ann Hintsa from Athlone
Moreover, the dance ensemble 021 Movement, made up of performers from the larger group, presented a dance piece titled ‘Odyssey.’
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Devon Swartz, the director of DS Productions, elaborated on the programme’s approach: ‘The Power of Storytelling methodology is a structured process with a curriculum designed by DS Productions directors Dennis Stander and I that empowers individuals to craft compelling monologues around their personal stories. We encouraged participants to delve into their own experiences, emotions and challenges, harnessing the power of authenticity to create a profound connection with their audience.’

Marlene Le Roux, the CEO of the Artscape Theatre Centre, said that the programme has continually evolved.
‘This has been one of our annual flagship programmes that literally gives a voice to young writers needing an opportunity to produce brand new works. It is in the form of staged readings with professional actors and directors to test out the new works as well as to possibly produce and develop these works into full-length productions,’ said Le Roux.
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Le Roux added, ‘This year was particularly special as we are hosting eight staged readings, one full production, as well as a series of monologues by young Cape Flats writers, who, through the support of the City of Cape Town, brought the power of storytelling to the Artscape stage. These opportunities are often life-changing for young, aspiring theatre makers.’
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