After freelancing on exciting productions across the country, he embarked on his Vrystaat Arts Festival journey in 2015, when Dr Ricardo Peach arrived, and has made one of the Free State\u2019s largest annual festivals his home ever since. Michael now wears the title of Director of the Vrystaat Arts Festival.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019ve always been drawn to creative expression in all its forms. It honestly feels like the arts have been a part of me from the very beginning,\u201d Michael said.<\/p>\n
Although many might believe that artistic talent cannot bloom in Bloemfontein, Michael begs to differ. \u201cSouth Africa is a hotbed of creativity and world-class talent, and that makes Bloemfontein no exception! I’m constantly inspired by the innovative artists and fresh ideas that emerge from this vibrant city,\u201d Michael mentioned.<\/p>\n
Although there\u2019s never a dull moment in the director\u2019s life, Michael enjoys the simple pleasures of home life. On his days off, Michael loves to recharge with soft music in the background and chooses between a really good book and working on a personal project.<\/p>\n
A day in Michael\u2019s life starts very bright and early. He wakes up at 5 for light exercise, reading and exploring new music. After tackling emails and a strong coffee (he loves great coffee!), he faces the exciting challenges of the festival.<\/p>\n
\u201cRight now, it\u2019s all about the Vrystaat Arts Festival but I love to unwind with a final cup of coffee while catching up on international theatre design trends. Cooking a delicious meal and some follow-up work fills my evening before it\u2019s time for bed,\u201d the director said.<\/p>\n
Michael gushes about how incredible this year has been for him. \u201cInternational collaborations have broadened my horizons and highlighted how intertwined the arts and human rights truly are. Of course, the Vrystaat Arts Festival from July 2-6 is the absolute highlight as well as setting the stage for our epic 25th anniversary next year,\u201d Michael concluded.<\/p>\n
On a lighter note, three things Michael cannot live without will have to be his sense of humour, music, and very good coffee!<\/p>\n
\u201cI have a bit of an obsession with cleaning and cooking. I believe that it\u2019s the perfect way to stay mentally sharp! (And yes, the director believes he\u2019ll make the best househusband!) Of course, nothing beats quality time with loved ones.<\/p>\n
Text: Abigail Visagie<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Michael Garbett was fortunate enough to grow up in the charming town of Virginia with the most loving and caring grandparents. Moving to Bloemfontein aged ten sparked new adventures. His passion for the arts grew so profoundly within him, that he decided to study Drama and Theatre Arts at the University of the Free State. […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":103,"featured_media":16570,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[40,20],"tags":[6838,3633,254,5039,6837],"class_list":{"0":"post-16568","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-people","8":"category-personalities","9":"tag-free-state-arts-festival","10":"tag-get-it-bloemfontein","11":"tag-june","12":"tag-michael-garbett","13":"tag-michael-garbett-on-impacting-artistic-innovation"},"yoast_head":"\n