Some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry are set to take to the stage in this year’s instalment of the OR Tambo Cultural Festival.
OR Tambo District municipal spokesperson Ayongezwa Lungisa said R1.8m had been set aside by the district for the festivities.
A comedy night, music festival and a soccer challenge are in store for those attending the three-day festival starting on November 9.
“We have invited the likes of Skhumba, Lusanda, Dumi Mkokstad, Bethusile, Vusi Nova, Amanda Black, 047 and Judith Sephuma. This is our way of giving back to the people of the district,” he said.
There will be performances at the Nelson Mandela Museum as well as at taxi ranks.
“The Nelson Mandela Museum is an integral part of our tourism as a district and as we celebrate the late statesman’s centenary we want to expose our people to his history.
“For the cultural festival there will be groups performing that will represent AmaBomvana, AbaThembu, AmaMpondomise and AmaMpondo because these are tribes that make up our district.
“We pride ourselves on our diversity as a people,” he said.
Lungisa said local up-andcoming comedians and artists have been invited to perform.
The soccer match that forms part of festival activities will not be played on November 11 but on November 17 to avoid a clash with the Safa calendar, when Chippa will be going toeto-toe with Sundowns.
“By doing this, we are giving an opportunity to soccer lovers who cannot travel long distances to watch their favourite teams play.
“Now they can enjoy the match in the comfort of their own home town at Mthatha stadium.
“We are not doing this to make money because the entry fees are low – ranging between R30 and R50, and some performances will be free.”..