Local comedian Marc Lottering is the latest artist to call out the government for the lack of support to artists during the COVID-19 pandemic. He is joined by an extensive list of frustrated, angry and disappointed singers, actors and musicians who have used their social media platforms to speak out, deciding that enough is enough.
The hospitality and entertainment industries continue to suffer a hard blow as a result of the pandemic, often relying on live performance venues to generate income. However as Cape Town-born Lottering explains, “many have not received an income in 2 years.”
He took to Twitter to voice his concerns, saying that “government does not give a sh**,” in reference to “those who rely on live theatre to survive.”
— Marc Lottering (@marclottering) August 30, 2021
Live performance venues have been under strain since venues have to close earlier due to the curfew, coupled with venue capacity limitations under adjusted level 3 lockdown.
These artists also didn’t have employment during the level 4 lockdown, when many venues ceased to operate. As with many restaurants, if you take a deep dive on Google, you’ll sadly see many venues temporarily closed.
In Lottering’s tweet, he also said “Spare a thought for many singers, comedians, actors, dancers, musicians.”
This comes after South African actress, model, and presenter Pearl Thusi reached out to Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa, asking him to offer financial support to the entertainment sector in the same way he offers messages of congratulations and condolences.
Dear Minister @NathiMthethwaSA , I say this in the sincerely way… ? artists are struggling… can you assist with actual support/ money like how you tweet us congrats and condolences. ?
— #QueenSono (@PearlThusi) July 19, 2021
Meanwhile, Lottering was backed by his Twitter followers, who described the situation as “Sad, very sad”:
Other countries have opened, stadiums are in full capacity… What is special about South Africa?
— Dlala ka yona (@kingsOfR1) September 2, 2021
Sad, very sad. No compensation whatsoever. No contingency plans from government.
— Lyndon Sedres (@LyndonSedres) August 30, 2021
In actual fact, the @MYANC South African government doesn’t care or give sh*** about anyone except power, their fat bellies and preserving the status quo.
— TwitaPolice (@twiterpolice9) September 2, 2021
But, the politicians are enjoying, both, their full salary and benefits. Uncaring.
— Paul Manuel Williams (@PaulManuelWill1) August 30, 2021
Picture: Unsplash