It would seem to be the week of the drinks festival. Gin, wine and whisky drinkers are in for a treat. But we haven’t forgotten the kids and those of you who are trying to keep things in shape. Phumlani S Langa has the best events for you.
JOBURG
LIVE RECORDING
The Voice South Africa: Season 3 Live Show
Mosaiek Teatro, Fairland
May 26, 5.30pm
R50 at computicket.com
Season 3 of The Voice is back with your host Anele Mdoda and the esteemed judges. Audiences attending the live shows will be able to enjoy the live performances like never before with L-ISA Hyperreal Sound, which delivers a sound that is crystal clear and more accurately depicts the spatial location of the instruments and artists.
WINE AND WHISKY
Kaya FM Wine & Malt Whisky Affair 2019
Hyde Park Corner Shopping Centre
May 30 and 31, 6pm
R190 to R290 at quicket.co.za
The eighth instalment of this gathering of like-minded individuals with a taste for fine wine and rare malt whisky will be held again at this suave venue. If this sounds like you – go for it.
BOOKS
SA Children’s Book Fair
TicketPro Dome
May 30 to June 2, 8am
R20 to R50 at webtickets.co.za
This, in my opinion, is probably the most worthy event on the list this week. Kids under 12 enter for free but must be accompanied by an adult. Let your imagination run wild with a wide selection of books on offer.
SOWETO
LIVE MUSIC
Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse presents The Journey
Soweto Theatre
May 31 and June 1
R100 to R550 at webtickets.co.za
This living legend is still doing his thing as only he can. Join Hotstix as he takes you on a journey through his work and iconic hits.
GIN
Gin and Tonic Session
Lebo’s Soweto Backpackers
June 1, 1pm
R50 to R150 at webtickets.co.za
You are encouraged to bring your own camp chair and cooler boxes are welcome. Performing live will be KwaZulu-Natal’s kings of a cappella, The Legacy.
LIVE MUSIC
El World Music Experience
Roadhouse Pub & Grill, Dobsonville
June 1, 12pm
R50 to R80 at the door
Sun-El Musician brought us a smash hit in the form of Akanamali, which was a December anthem. Catch him bringing more groovy magic to the live stage, along with some of his creative friends.
PRETORIA
HOME DÉCOR
Pretoria Homemakers Expo
Time Square, Sun Arena
May 24 to 26
R80 at suninternational.com/time-square
I don’t know how you feel about your place but mine is my inner sanctum, my place of peace and so it has to look a certain way. If you’re trying to elevate your décor then you’d best visit the Homemakers Expo for some pointers on raw comfort.
WHISKY AND GIN
Whisky & Gin Live
Menlyn Park Shopping Centre
May 30 to June 1, 5pm
R120 to R1 495 at ticketpros.co.za
A celebration of two of the best spirits in it. Get your spirits up and enjoy a wide spread of licks from local producers as well as international.
HEALTH
Banting & Keto Lifestyle
Pretoria National Botanical Gardens
June 1, 9am
Free entrance
We all know the new wave is vegan. If you’re still trying to do the banting thing then this will give you the chance to speak directly to the people who supply the cuisine for this diet. The gorgeous surrounds are also perfect for a picnic and you can bring your blanket, grab a bite and enjoy some live music.
ELSEWHERE
DURBAN
That Kids Show
The Rockwood at Sibaya
June 1, 1pm
R95 at rockwoodtheatre.co.za
Energetic performers will thrill your kids with their renditions of popular music by artists such as Harry Styles, Bruno Mars and Taylor Swift.
Fitch & Leedes Gin & Tonic Festival
Chris Saunders Park
June 1, 11am
R160 at webtickets.co.za
If you drink gin then you’re familiar with this brand. What you need to do is arrive, get your cup and load some cash on to your howler card. Right after you fill the glass with some lovely tasting gin you can grab a plate and kick back to some live music.
CAPE TOWN
Cape Town Big Band Jazz Festival
Baxter Theatre Complex, Concert Hall
May 29 to June 1, 7.30pm
R80 to R140 at webtickets.co.za
The festival turns 21 this year and the plans to mark this occasion are sure to make this show the best yet. Big brass and bigger grooves than before.