SEDIBENG.- The Diniso Kasi Arts is embarking on bringing art and academia into the tourism sector through a series of activities based on Kasi Arts meet Varsity Arts, which involves township artists working together with university artists.

The project, Kasi Arts meet Varsity Arts, brings together talented township artists and university students to create unique cultural experiences. This movement follows a successful collaboration in 2024 between local musician Iva-Nyaniso Diniso (guitarist) and VUT visual artist Happy Mgcina.

This year, the project is scaling up with fresh talent and a new focus on local industry.

Speaking to Sedibeng Ster, Iga-Makhulu Diniso, from Diniso Kasi Arts, confirmed that for 2026, Iva-Nyaniso Diniso (TRUTH) will collaborate with SipheSihle Kunene, a singer-guitarist who is a student at VUT.

The pair will be involved in a concept called ‘The Room,’ inspired by The Tiny Desk music concert. The activity, he said, will be on every Friday night, Poetry & Comedy from 18:00, and Saturday and Sunday from 15:00.

“This is targeting the student community from VUT and North-West University (NWU) Vaal Campus, respectively.  ‘Theatre in Tourism’ is a concept where performers work alongside tourism operators and tour guides.”

The goal is to create job opportunities for tourism graduates and those who are in hospitality and the township backyard food business.

“Education, Religion, and Politics that have no artistic flair are as good as stale food,” said Diniso.

Diniso believes the arts are essential to stir dialogues, create awareness, inspire, and provide therapy and hope in life.

The arts activities will take place from March until June with TRUTH-full music and SIPHESIHLE-soulful songs live stage show.

Kunene is currently studying a Bachelor of Education at VUT.

Kunene, together with Iva-Nyaniso Diniso and Iga-Makhulu Diniso, will be presenting the EDUTAINMENT at Emmanuel Primary School in Sharpeville on March 20 to commemorate the 1960 Sharpeville shooting.

“Arts are the eyes, ears, and mouthpiece for society. It provides therapy, hope, and inspires dialogue,” added Diniso.

Hence, Diniso Arts Complex offers artists a space to practise and rehearse on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 9:00 to 17:00. Weekends are for presenting live performances for families and friends as the audience.

Interested persons can contact 084 282 9160 for more information or WhatsApp 062 454 5315 for bookings and directions.