Aspiring actors, dancers and singers will have the chance to display their skills as the Steve Biko Foundation (SBF) prepares to host auditions for new talent.
Abelusi is the foundation’s flagship arts and culture training programme, based at the Steve Biko Centre (SBC) in Ginsberg.
SBC’s head of education and training, Xolisa Pakati, said Abelusi develops artistic leadership and offers young artists the opportunity to sharpen their craft.
“We aim to provide entry-level training in the arts, entrepreneurship and administration which will prepare trainees for further and higher educational endeavours and/or professional practise,” Pakati said.
He said the programme offered an in-depth understanding of the principles and techniques of disciplines such as drama, dance, music, film and arts administration.
Mathakane Tlali, from King William’s Town, is a second-year theatre and performance student at the University of Cape Town (UCT) who spent eight months at Abelusi in 2013, after completing matric.
“I have always had a passion for drama but after passing matric I could not study because my points did not allow it and I had no background in drama or performance, so when I heard about the auditions, I took a chance and it was a great learning experience.”
Applications for Abelusi are open for Eastern Cape youth between the ages of 18 and 25.
Forms are available at www.sbf.org.za or at the centre.
The closing date for applications is February 8. — ziphon@dispatch.co.za