#SASTfringeS2

The latest edition in this year’s #SASTfringeS2 took place on the 24th of April when The South African State Theatre once more in collaboration with Alternative music community platform ,ALTBLK, and the independent artist management and booking agency ,Akum Agency hosted some of the land’s best fringe and unothodox artists.

Following the successes of featured artists including amongst others Leomile, Urban Village and Mackenzie Matome so far this year, the latest edition featured offerings from ThesisZA, Muneyi, Pilani Bubu and the legendary Neo Muyanga.

The day kicked off when charismatic host for the day Nompumelelo Skhosana introduced ThesisZA on to the Opera Theatre stage. The Cape Town based duo namely, Ondela Simakuhle and Ayanda Charlie walked onto the stage dressed in matching glossy white dresses that looked nothing short of perfection. They then proceeded to give a performance filled with harmonies accompanied by a selection of string instrument players and multi-instrumentalist Tshepo Tsotetsi on the keys. As part of their set they had the song Chosi featuring Umle, which they hinted also forms part of an upcoming album.

True to form, Jess White kept attendees entertained with a Indi inspired mix set on the Opera balcony in-between acts.

Muneyi took to stage as the second act of the day, with him on stage was the brilliant KekeLingo adding backing vocals and instrumentation with the cajon drum and his renowned “Keke Harp“. The TshiVenda folk vocalist performed songs from his debut album Makhulu and songs which he has recently wrote including one based on his grandmother’s lamentations to all which he gave thorough explanations.

Next, Pilani Bubu took to stage with what was a 10 member ensemble that essentially occupied the majority of the stage. The ensemble included various instrument players, such as that of the Bass and the Xylophone. As part of the ensemble was Urban Village guitarist Lerato Lichaba whom Pilani has also been working with on the compilation of Folklore: Chapter 2.

Last act of the day was legendary musician and one half of the iconic Blk Sonshine duo, Neo Muyanga. Many can consider it a privilege to get to see Neo on stage and he delivered with honor, leaving the crowd that included the cheering Msaki in awe. Amongst those with him on stage was guitarist AusTebza.

The #SASTfringeS2 is ongoing with more acts expected in coming weeks, and giving the growing success, we hope to see continued collaboration between the State Theatre, ALTBLK and Akum Agency.