Festivals Masterclass: 02 March 2026 скачать в хорошем качестве

Festivals Masterclass: 02 March 2026

The arts community gathered at the Tramways Building in Gqeberha for a powerful Festivals Masterclass, unpacking the economic, cultural and developmental role of festivals in building creative cities. Hosted by the South African Cultural Observatory in partnership with SG Comms and the National Arts Council of South Africa, the session brought together arts administrators, funders, performers and researchers in one unified call: collaboration is key to growing the sector. SACO Executive Director Unathi Lutshaba officially welcomed delegates, while Dr Fiona Drummond unpacked the value of the South African Festivals Economic Impact Calculator (SAFEIC 2024), highlighting how festivals drive employment, social cohesion, cultural capital and local economic growth. We extend our sincere appreciation to our esteemed panellists: • Monica Newton from the National Arts Festival • Andre le Roux from Concerts SA • Nosipho Hlatshwayo from the South African Cities Network • Lerato Moloko Mphahlele from the National Arts Council • Dr Fiona Drummond from Rhodes University A special thank you to facilitator Nobesuthu Rayi for guiding a dynamic and thought-provoking discussion. We also appreciate the media, including The Herald, and everyone who attended in person and joined online. Your engagement strengthens the work of positioning festivals as serious contributors to urban development and the creative economy.