All set for Mnquma Jazz Festival and Berlin November

Mnquma Jazz Pic
Mnquma Jazz Pic
It is all systems go as two Eastern Cape towns get ready to welcome thousands of revellers this weekend.

Organisers of the Mnquma Jazz Festival in Butterworth urged fans to buy tickets to avoid queuing at Gcuwa Dam, where 6000 people are expected to attend the music extravaganza.

On the other side of the Kei River, 10000 spectators are expected at the Berlin November horse-racing event.

Both events take place on Saturday.

Festival organisers said the final touches were put up, with Butterworth expected to come alive with performances from internationally acclaimed musicians.

Much-loved South African musos including jazz maestro Selaelo Selota, afrosoul songbird Thandiswa Mazwai and Nathi Mankayi of Nomvula fame have all promised to bring the roof down.

Gospel sensations Sfiso Ncwane and couple Butho and Yolanda Vuthela will also feature in the line-up. Local artists, including young jazz players, will raise the curtain when the gates open at 12pm on Saturday.

High-profile guests to attend include Xhosa King Mpendulo Sigcau, MECs, mayors and local celebrities.

Mnquma Jazz Festival spokesman Nkosifikile Gqomo said the safety of all revellers was among the top priorities.

“The stages are all going up and safety aspects, such as stage design and measurements, will be certified by qualified professional. We are not taking any chances because this is national event,” he said.

All the artists have confirmed appearances.

Tickets for the Mnquma Jazz Festival cost R80 and R250 for VIP at Computicket and Shoprite Checkers.

Meanwhile, organisers of the Berlin November, a calendar horse-racing event to be held between King William’s Town and East London, have all given the event a thumbs up.

Berlin November chairman Luthando Bara said VIP tickets were sold out and 10000 spectators are expected to cheer on more than 200 horses and jockeys.

Accommodation establishments in King William’s Town also opened their doors to visitors, promising comfort, luxury and memorable experiences.

Manager of Amatola Mountain View Nozithobe Ziya said the establishment offered rich Xhosa culture with beautiful scenery and a tranquil environment.

“Visitors looking for fun always book with us. We offer good services and a lifetime of memories,” she said.

Assistant manager of Hubertha Guest House Kylie Dusterhoff said they offered spacious rooms with extra amenities like DStv, swimming pool, buffet and English breakfast. — loyisom@dispatch.co.za

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