Cultsha Kennis

Michael Abrahams, Belhar’s most loved artist and street performer, recently showcased an original collection of paintings and sketches to the Cape Town communities. Introduced with the theme “Home is Where My Roots Lie”, Michael’s array of works authentically expressed his reality and aspirations. His talent also reflected his resourcefulness through the creative use of canvas, stone, match-boxes, car bonnets and t-shirts. The program for the day included arts and crafts and performances by various artists (see pics below!).  In addition to the exhibition, Michael’s talents were also demonstrated in a display of ‘heavy lifting’ and a comedy performance (with co-star Robyn Radcliffe) – a true imitation of the great multitalented Italian, Michaelangelo!    Michael thanks everyone for their support at the event, and tells us what makes him a successful artist. “You must be in love with your work,” he says. “I feel like my art is my people, my children. At the end...

Born in the Spring of 2012, the Rosa choir is a unique musical initiative established through the Cape Cultural Collective (CCC). This diverse group of choristers meets every weekend to rehearse their own cover versions of songs in English, Afrikaans and Xhosa. Their musical sets include famous South African and Cape Tonian hits, such as ‘My African Dream’, ‘Daar kom die Alibama’ as well as ‘Rosa’ itself – a traditional goemaliedjie originating from the Malay-Afrikaans culture in the Cape, which inspired the choir’s name. Members of the choir stem mainly from various cultural groups in Cape Town, and include Malay choir veterans, gospel singers, youth activists, an academic from India, a Canadian, a handyman - a true reflection of South African culture, blurring the lines between borders of culture, language, race, religion and class!   CCC coordinator Elizabeth Schutter relates how proud she is to be a part of the Rosa choir family, and encourages all musical perso...