East Wave Radio ignites artistic empowerment movement in Johannesburg South

East Wave Radio 92.2 FM recently organised a meeting of performing artists that brought together about 50 musicians, dancers, and community advocates under the banner of unity and artistic empowerment in Johannesburg south.

According to Versha Magan, one of the committee members, the event aimed to enlighten artists on the role of radio in advancing the local industry and emphasised the reasons artists should engage in content production within this sector.

“The meeting showcased the potential for positive change within the local performing arts scene and demonstrated the impact of broadcasting regulations on promoting local content.

“The event was fuelled by the desire to kickstart a large project, and they formed an interim managing committee. This committee consists of myself, Benny Ganesh, Metesh Nathoo, Ushma Mahabeer, and Jason Chunderdoojh. We are committed to moving the agenda forward to accelerate the impact our collective society can have on the local art scene,” said Magan.

“Our mission is to encourage participation from artists not previously present. Our secondary goal is to organise an event that fosters respect for the arts by bringing stakeholders, performing students, teachers, and the public together to celebrate Indian performing arts.

“Various significant concerns were brought to light, encompassing the shortage of musical performing groups to create and maintain bands. Additionally, there were apprehensions about the changing landscape for solo artists, deeming accompanying musicians largely unnecessary and, as a result, somewhat diminishing the overall satisfaction of the entertainment experience,” said Magan.