Read more
WATCH: Performing artists picket outside ANC headquarters
Should the president not respond to the memorandum within two weeks, the artists have vowed to demonstrate again.
Performing arts practitioners in dance and theatre demonstrate outside ANC headquarters Luthuli House, 30 August 2021, in Johannesburg, hoping President Cyril Ramaphosa will hear their plea as they demand adjustments to the lockdown restrictions allowing theatres to increase audience numbers. Picture: Michel Bega
This video is no longer available.
Frustrated theatre performers protested outside the ANC’s Luthuli House headquarters in Johannesburg, demanding President Cyril Ramaphosa hear their pleas.
Dressed in black and holding placards, the group sang and danced as they called for Covid-19 restrictions to be amended for their sector.
A memorandum of demands was handed over, calling for an increase in audience numbers in theatres.
Currently, theatres are restricted to allow only 50 people in their venues. The artists say the number is too little to generate enough money from ticket sales.
Additionally, the group wants the president to recall the Minister of Sports and Culture Nathi Mthethwa and reshuffle employees in the department.
Should the president not respond to the memorandum within two weeks, the artists have vowed to demonstrate again.
ALSO READ: EFF adds voice to protesting artists’ pleas for funding
