Alex talents to shine at Joburg Festival as Clash of the Regions concludes
Alex’s young artists ranging from Hip Hop dancers to Amapiano performers have been selected to showcase their talent at the highly anticipated Johannesburg Festival, following the successful Clash of the Regions/Ishashalazi Auditions.
The buzz surrounding the Clash of the Regions/Ishashalazi Auditions is palpable as local creatives prepare for their moment in the spotlight at the upcoming Johannesburg Festival on December 14 at Peterson Park.
This initiative, organised by Gauteng Province Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation in partnership with City of Johannesburg Arts, Culture and Heritage, aims to nurture and develop artistic talent within the community, ensuring that the vibrant culture of kwaito, hip-hop, dance, drama, and poetry continues to thrive.
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After an intense selection process, the winners who will compete at the Johannesburg Festival have been announced.
The Hip Hop category boasts the talents of Thulani Khumalo, Ordinary Brandon, and Master Kynd. In the Amapiano/Kwaito realm, R56 & Man P702, Muhluri ‘Viktor Matoto’ Mabaza, and Kamogelo Shuma Makhekhe will represent the genre.
Additionally, the dance category was won by Gomora Future Stars, Youth Stand Together, and Sgiya Sonke.
City of Johannesburg Arts, Culture and Heritage directorate Kaiser Kubheka expressed the importance of collaboration in fostering local talent.
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“This year we decided to collaborate so that we bring government resources together and approach government. We are targeting the youth in theatre, drama, poetry, dance, and music, blending kwaito and amapiano as one genre. This programme not only evaluates talent but also lays the groundwork for future development,” Kubheka said.
“There are cash prizes to be won by artists and the winners will have an opportunity to compete at the Provincial Festival next year in February.”
Gauteng Province Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation’s Lois Baloyi emphasised the programme’s role in providing crucial training opportunities for participants.
“Through this initiative, we can identify groups that need development and create platforms for them to engage with successful artists. This not only enriches their experience but also enhances the overall creative landscape of our community,” Baloyi said.
Among the selected participants, Viktor Matoto expressed his exhilaration at being chosen to compete in the festival. “I’m thrilled to represent amapiano. This is a huge opportunity for us to not just showcase our talent but also to grow as artists. We are ready to give it our all at the Johannesburg Festival.”
Kubheka concluded, “Our focus is not just on celebrating talent but on encouraging development. We want our winners to use their awards to enhance their skills, paving the way for a bright future in the creative industry.”
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