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In a harmonious blend of music mastery and entrepreneurial flair, Saso, the acclaimed musician turned marketing maven, is embarking on a grand venture: ‘Saso’s Brunch Marquee,’ a lavish affair poised to set the stage for Durban’s prestigious annual event, the Durban July.
Known to the world as Lusaso Ngcobo, Saso, half of the dynamic duo of Dream Team fame, has meticulously crafted this opulent gathering over three years. His vision? To create a haven where South Africa’s crème de la crème can converge, not only to network but to bask in the glory of black excellence.
“Imagine a realm where A-listers mingle amidst an atmosphere of splendor and achievement. That’s the essence of ‘Saso’s Brunch Marquee.’ It’s been a labor of love, and I’m thrilled to see it come to fruition after years of dedication,” shares Saso.
Scheduled for July, the event promises an unforgettable fusion of live entertainment, epicurean delights, and unparalleled ambiance. The recent media launch, graced by luminaries like Benny Maverick, DJ Sox, Slee Ndlovu, Minnie Ntuli, Sethu Nkosi, and more, heralded the arrival of this extraordinary affair.
“Our aim is to revolutionize the Durban July experience, catering to a market overlooked in the past. It’s a platform to host industry titans and trendsetters, with a surprise element that will truly set us apart,” adds Saso, hinting at a spectacle that promises to dazzle attendees.
Renowned for his stage prowess and event curation finesse, Saso pledges to redefine luxury at the Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse on July 6th. Expect an indulgent spread of culinary delights, bespoke cocktails, and captivating performances by top-tier artists.
As anticipation builds, tickets for ‘Saso’s Brunch Marquee’ go on sale April 12th via Webtickets, promising an experience that transcends the ordinary and epitomizes the essence of sophistication and style.
Step into the rhythm of South African radio royalty as we prepare to honor the illustrious Wilson B Nkosi, a titan of the airwaves for over three decades. Picture it: the stage is set, the lights aglow, and the air crackling with anticipation. On the 29th of June 2024, Emperors Palace in Johannesburg will transform into a palace of music, a testament to the indelible mark Nkosi has left on the hearts of listeners nationwide.
Hailing from the quaint town of Piet Retief, and steeped in the vibrant culture of Swaziland, Wilson B Nkosi has been a constant companion to generations, his voice weaving through the fabric of South African entertainment with effortless grace. Now, as we gather to pay homage to his unparalleled career, we do so with hearts brimming with admiration and gratitude.
This gala isn’t just a celebration; it’s a symphony of gratitude, a crescendo of appreciation for a man whose passion for music knows no bounds. Recently honored with a lifetime achievement award at the Cultural & Creative Industries Awards, Nkosi’s legacy is etched in the annals of South African music history. And what better way to honor his legacy than with an evening of splendor and melody?
Prepare to be swept away on a wave of elegance and enchantment as T&S Platinum Concerts curates an experience like no other. From delectable delicacies to scintillating conversation, every moment promises to be infused with the magic of Nkosi’s legacy. But the true stars of the evening? The music, of course.
Imagine the stage ablaze with talent, as luminaries of the music industry converge to pay homage to one of their own. Sjava, Mafikizolo, Lwah Ndlukulu – names that need no introduction, voices that stir the soul and move the spirit. And alongside these titans, a cadre of DJs whose beats will set the night on fire, each spin a testament to the enduring power of rhythm and melody.
These include Msizi Shembe, Sentle Lehoko, Collen Zondo, DJ Muntu, Morda and Tbose, who are all renowned for their exceptional skills and ability to get the crowd on their feet. With such a diverse and talented lineup, this gala promises to be an unforgettable experience for all music lovers. From soulful ballads to upbeat dance tracks, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
As the melodies rise and fall, and the night unfurls in all its splendor, we invite you to join us on this journey of celebration and reflection. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply someone who appreciates the magic of music, this gala promises an experience like no other.
So, don your finest attire, dust off your dancing shoes, and prepare to lose yourself in the rhythm of the night. Tickets are available now, but they won’t last long. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of history as we raise our voices in tribute to one of South Africa’s most beloved sons. This is more than an event; it’s a celebration of life, love, and the enduring power of music.
In a dazzling fusion of creativity and conservation, the Walt Disney Company and National Geographic have joined forces to unveil a breathtaking global initiative: ourHOME. Timed perfectly to synchronize with the reverent Earth Month of April, this celestial campaign aims to illuminate the remarkable endeavors both within and beyond our sphere that safeguard, rejuvenate, and exalt ourHOME. At its core, it’s a celebration of the guardians, the narrators, and the enchanters who tirelessly strive to preserve the sanctity of our shared planet.
For eons, Disney has woven tales that unravel the tapestry of our planet’s marvels, while National Geographic has been an unwavering beacon, beckoning us to delve deeper into the embrace of our world. Now, these two titans of storytelling have synchronized their cosmic dance to pay homage to the celestial orb we call home, igniting the spark within each of us to sculpt a brighter destiny.
Prepare to be enraptured as ourHOME unfurls a tapestry of spellbinding narratives, spotlighting the valiant efforts under the banner of Disney Planet Possible. This noble commitment pledges concrete action towards nurturing a thriving habitat for both humanity and wildlife alike. A digital odyssey awaits, as National Geographic luminaries embark on a pilgrimage to Walt Disney World Resort, bearing witness to the transformative work firsthand.
Meanwhile, on the celestial stage of Disney+, a celestial ballet unfolds with the launch of an exclusive ourHOME content collection. Here, the finest storytellers and visionaries converge to extol the virtues of our celestial abode. From the resplendent majesty of “Queens” to the microscopic wonders of “A Real Bug’s Life,” every tale whispers an ode to ourHOME’s infinite splendor. And let us not forget the mesmerizing odysseys of Disneynature, encapsulating the raw beauty of our natural world.
As Earth Day dawns, the veil is lifted on Nat Geo’s latest opus, “Secrets of the Octopus,” a mesmerizing journey into the depths narrated by the mellifluous tones of Paul Rudd. Simultaneously, the lush jungles of India come alive with the premiere of Disneynature’s “Tiger,” a poignant saga of motherhood and resilience narrated by the ethereal Priyanka Chopra Jonas.
But the celebration doesn’t end there. A stirring television spot, graced by the venerable voice of Morgan Freeman, dances across screens throughout the month, a poignant reminder of our sacred duty to safeguard ourHOME.
Venture deeper into the heart of ourHOME with the ourHOME Digital Series, where luminaries like Alex Honnold and Mariana Van Zeller traverse the enchanting landscapes of Walt Disney World, unveiling the symbiotic dance between humanity and habitat.
Courteney Monroe, the luminary President of National Geographic, encapsulates the essence of this cosmic odyssey: “We hope, by sharing this passion, that we can also inspire others to protect, restore and celebrate our home.”
And in the words of Yalmaz Siddiqui, the visionary Vice President of Environmental Sustainability at The Walt Disney Company, “We hope the ourHOME campaign with Nat Geo helps bring greater awareness of the beauty and majesty of our planet to audiences everywhere.”
As the curtain rises on this celestial symphony, let us heed the call to arms and embark on a voyage to safeguard ourHOME, for it is not just a destination, but a legacy for generations to come.
Tune in to the celestial chorus:
Disney+:
Embark on the journey at www.DisneyPlus.com.
National Geographic Wild:
Unlock the mysteries on DSTV Channel 182 or StarSat Channel 221 (DTH), 221 (DTT).
In the journey towards an off-grid economy, South Africa is witnessing the emergence of pioneering sustainability models, and at the forefront stands the mixed-use precinct of Melrose Arch. With its innovative approach, Melrose Arch sets a benchmark for sustainability, showcasing a blend of eco-friendly initiatives that redefine the urban living experience.
Melrose Arch’s evolution traces back to its inception in 1998, marked by meticulous construction and a vision for a distinctive urban space. What began as a modest development with 11 buildings has blossomed into a sprawling complex spanning office spaces, retail outlets, hotels, residential areas, and recreational facilities, totaling an impressive 199,600m².
Central to Melrose Arch’s sustainability ethos is its Eco Centre, a hub for waste management excellence. Operating round the clock, the facility meticulously sorts paper, cardboard, metals, plastics, and glass, diverting a substantial portion of waste away from landfills. Moreover, within the precinct’s dining establishments, food waste is diligently separated at its source, ensuring efficient recycling and conversion into valuable resources like compost.
The results speak volumes: in February 2024 alone, Melrose Arch achieved an impressive 88% recycling rate, leading to substantial savings in carbon emissions, water usage, and energy consumption. Beyond environmental benefits, these initiatives contribute to local employment and foster community engagement in climate-conscious practices.
Another cornerstone of Melrose Arch’s sustainability strategy is its innovative cooling infrastructure. Beneath the precinct lies a state-of-the-art underground cooling plant spanning 1,471m², equipped with advanced chillers, cooling towers, and water pumps. This centralized system efficiently regulates indoor temperatures across the entire complex, reducing energy consumption while enhancing occupant comfort.
Furthermore, Melrose Arch’s commitment to renewable energy is evident in its expansive rooftop solar array. Comprising over 7,800 panels spread across various buildings, the system generates approximately 3.2MW of clean energy annually, significantly reducing reliance on conventional power sources. Plans for future expansion and the integration of battery storage highlight Melrose Arch’s steadfast pursuit of energy independence and resilience.
Water sustainability is equally prioritized, with Melrose Arch boasting a robust backup system sourced from underground reserves. Through advanced filtration and treatment processes, this system ensures uninterrupted water supply, supporting lush greenery and minimizing water wastage. In 2023 alone, the precinct saved a staggering 3.5 million liters of water through its proactive measures.
Reiner Henschel, Operations Director at Melrose Arch, encapsulates the precinct’s commitment to sustainability, emphasizing an ongoing dedication to innovation and environmental stewardship. As Melrose Arch continues to lead by example, it reaffirms its status as a beacon of sustainability in South Africa, inspiring other developments to embrace eco-conscious practices and shape a greener future for generations to come.
After clinching an Oscar® victory, anime enthusiasts rejoiced at the news of “The Boy and The Heron” hitting South African cinemas nationwide on Friday, April 19. Gravel Road Distribution Group, the film’s local distributor, has revealed that it will be available in its original Japanese format with English subtitles, as well as in a dubbed English version. Booking options are now open, offering audiences a choice of showtimes at release cinemas.
The English dubbed version showcases the talents of Luca Padovan as Mahito Maki, Robert Pattinson as The Gray Heron, Florence Pugh as Kiriko, Christian Bale as Shoichi Maki, Dave Bautista as The Parakeet King, Gemma Chan as Natsuko, and Willem Dafoe as the Noble Pelican. “The Boy and The Heron” secures Japanese anime maestro Hayao Miyazaki’s second Oscar® win, following the historic success of “Spirited Away,” which became the first non-English animation to claim the same accolade in 2003.
In this captivating film, young Mahito, grappling with the loss of his mother in war, relocates to his family’s rural estate. There, a chain of enigmatic occurrences draws him to a secluded ancient tower inhabited by a playful grey heron. When Mahito’s stepmother vanishes, he ventures into the tower with the heron, embarking on a mesmerizing journey into a realm where the boundaries between the living and the dead blur. Guided by the heron, Mahito unravels the secrets of this fantastical world and discovers truths about himself. The stellar cast includes Christian Bale, Dave Bautista, Gemma Chan, Willem Dafoe, Karen Fukuhara, Mark Hamill, Robert Pattinson, and Florence Pugh lending their voices to this remarkable adventure.
“The Boy and The Heron” emerges from the esteemed Studio Ghibli, renowned for timeless classics such as “Spirited Away,” “Howl’s Moving Castle,” and “My Neighbor Totoro.” This film marks Hayao Miyazaki’s return to the director’s chair after a decade, presenting an original hand-drawn tale crafted by the Academy Award®-winning master himself. Produced by Studio Ghibli co-founder Toshio Suzuki, the movie features an enchanting musical score by Miyazaki’s long-time collaborator Joe Hisaishi. Adding to the allure, global J-pop sensation Kenshi Yonezu pens and performs the film’s theme song, “Spinning Globe.”
For more information, or to find a cinema, go to: https://www.gravelroadafrica.com/boy-and-the-heron
In the pulsating heartbeat of South Africa’s entertainment scene, where fame and fortune dance hand in hand, the stories behind the glitz and glamour often harbor darker truths. Melinda Ferguson, a seasoned storyteller unafraid to delve into the shadows of celebrity, now unveils a tale that grips the soul and challenges the perceptions of love and fame. “When Love Kills” is not just a book; it’s a journey into the heart of tragedy.
At the center of this narrative stands AKA, the luminary of South Africa’s hip-hop cosmos. His meteoric rise to stardom seemed like a fable spun from the fabric of dreams. Yet, dreams have a propensity to shatter, and reality can morph into a nightmare. Enter Anele Tembe, a radiant presence in AKA’s life, whose youthful exuberance belied the storm brewing beneath the surface.
Their love story, initially adorned with the trappings of passion and adoration, soon veered into treacherous territory. The Pepper Club, a backdrop of luxury and opulence, became the setting for a tragedy that would send shockwaves through the nation. Anele’s fall from the 10th storey, amidst the echoes of heated arguments, shattered illusions and exposed the underbelly of their relationship—a tangled web of toxicity, substance abuse, and violence.
As the dust settled on Anele’s untimely demise, whispers of speculation and suspicion permeated the air. Ferguson’s meticulous narrative weaves through the labyrinth of conjecture, offering glimpses into the tumultuous dynamics that consumed AKA and Anele. The pages of “When Love Kills” do not shy away from the uncomfortable truths, confronting the reader with the stark realities of love gone awry.
Yet, the saga doesn’t conclude with Anele’s tragic end. Less than two years later, the specter of violence would rear its head once more, claiming AKA’s life in a manner that echoed the echoes of Anele’s demise. The shadows of conspiracy loomed large, casting doubt on the circumstances surrounding his assassination. Ferguson’s narrative unfolds with a poignant intensity, inviting readers to ponder the profound implications of love, loss, and the price of fame.
“When Love Kills” transcends the boundaries of a mere biography; it’s a cautionary tale, a mirror reflecting the fragility of human relationships in the crucible of celebrity culture. Ferguson’s deft prose captures the essence of the human condition, juxtaposing the allure of fame with the stark realities of its consequences. As readers embark on this gripping odyssey, they are compelled to confront their own notions of love, obsession, and the elusive quest for redemption.
In a world where headlines often overshadow humanity, “When Love Kills” stands as a testament to the power of storytelling—a beacon of illumination amidst the darkness of tragedy. Melinda Ferguson, with her unparalleled insight and empathy, beckons us to traverse the labyrinth of AKA and Anele’s journey, reminding us that even amidst the ruins of shattered dreams, there exists the possibility of catharsis and renewal.
The Forbes Family Statement on Melinda Ferguson’s book “We are not in any way associated with Melinda Ferguson’s book and we do not endorse it. In the same breath we distance ourselves from the contents of the book.
When Melinda reached out to us, we respectfully and rightfully declined to contribute to her book.
At this stage we cannot give any further comment on the book as we are unaware of its contents. We do however find the intended publication of the book and the timing distasteful and opportunistic.
Tony and Lynn Forbes”