Sibikwa receives upgrade

The Sibikwa Arts Centre in Benoni South is in the process of an upgrade worth R1.4-million, after receiving funds from the Department of Arts and Culture.

October 10, 2016

Sheina Razack 1 minute read

The work should be complete by December 4.

“We want to revamp Sibikwa with the hope that it will become an attraction site in Benoni,” said artistic director, Phyllis Klotz.

The R1.4-m which was given to the centre in March, for refurbishment, is only being used to complete phase one of the centre.

The money is being used for the following upgrades on the premises:

•Ensuring the three classrooms (dance, music and visual arts) and the dance studio are painted and soundproof. The roof of the dance studio has already been replaced

•Renovate the garages for the Sibikwa company vehicles

•Move the offices from their current location to the foyer of the theatre room

•Build a kiosk in the foyer of the theatre room

•Paint the fence along the perimeter of the premises

•Customise the trees with beaded artwork

•New gate.

Klotz said Sibikwa was established in 1988 with the goal of developing and bridging the gaps between communities by using art.

It is also used for personal development, social cohesion and transformation,” Klotz said.

“Currently we have 120 pupils who visit the centre every Saturday for our Saturday Arts Academy.

“We also hold educational art projects at the centre and from Sibikwa, 38 teachers are able to visit various schools to assist the art teachers.”

Klotz hopes to raise more money so that the centre can start phase two.

“We would like to build a courtyard where guests can socialise, renovate our drumming and marimba classrooms, buy an air conditioner for the theatre room and decorate the foyer.

Although Klotz believes the art centre will become an attraction hub, she is concerned about the vacant building next door to the centre.

“The building has been vacant for a while and vagrants live there,” Klotz said.