The South African Guild of Actors (SAGA) is set to host a groundbreaking anti-racism conference in Cape Town next week, addressing the pervasive issue of racism within the Western Cape’s entertainment industry, reports Cape {town} Etc.
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‘There are specifically white-owned service providers, white-owned companies, and industry organisations run by a majority of white members that reinforce their stranglehold on the entertainment industry,’ SAGA Chairperson and actor Jack Devnarain told The Citizen.
The conference is set to take place on 27 September at the Artscape Theatre in Cape Town and will include a panel of actors, writers, content creators and technical crew, all working in the Western Cape.
‘We will have an audience question and answer session, so participants can speak to their felt experiences. Our final address will be delivered by Isha Dilraj from the Office of the Vice Chancellor of the University of Cape Town,’ said Devnarain.
The panel discussion will be facilitated by the actor, with SAGA executive committee member Thoko Ntshinga and former 7de Laan actress Melanie Du Bois in attendance.
Panellists include Independent Directors Association Africa (IDAA) chairman Andile Sinqoto, writer Weaam Williams, and director Kazi Khuboni.
Devnarain noted that the challenges SAGA aims to address are widespread across South Africa’s entertainment industry, not just the Western Cape.
He expressed sorrow over the lack of financial support and recognition for South African actors like Darlington Michaels, who passed away without being able to leave residual income to his family.
This is largely due to South African law not providing actors with royalties or residuals for the ongoing use of their work.
As a result, Michaels’ contributions to shows like Isidingo will continue to be aired, but without any financial benefit to his estate.
The Performers’ Protection Amendment Bill (PPAB), which could significantly impact actors’ livelihoods, now awaits President Cyril Ramaphosa’s signature after passing through the National Assembly and National Council of Provinces.
It is closely tied to the Copyright Amendment Bill (CAB).
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