Pencil these events into your diary right now…
May 1
Looking for a relaxed day out shopping, eating and treating yourself to a little TLC? The Lifestyle Pop-up – jam-packed with everything you could imagine – is open to everyone who wants to have some fun and support small local business at the same time. Taking place at The St James on Venice in Windermere, the event will boast vendors who embody skincare and wellness, as well as those who’ve got incredible ranges of clothing and accessories to show off. Some things you can look forward to include a henna artist, a mini spa on site offering massages, manis and pedis; there will be a free soft play for toddlers, lots of exciting giveaways and food, food and more food … from burgers, sarmies and pizzas to dunked wings, nachos in a bag and authentic Indian biryani. Drinks and treats include coffee and Indian Karak Tea, bubble tea, mocktails, lemonade, Nutella bomb donuts, brownies, Belgian chocolates and more. All food is halaal and no alcohol is allowed on site. Gates are open from 11am to 11pm on the Sunday and 11am to 8pm on the Monday. Entry is free. Details: Follow them on Instagram @thelifestylepopupza
May 24-27
Ralph Lawson, one of South Africa’s best-loved stage personalities, is sure to strike a chord with theatre connoisseurs when he hits the stage at The Loft at The Playhouse this month in Ubuntu Bill. Written and directed by Michael Broderick, this compassionate done-hander – which speaks to those who look at life through the prism of their disability – relates how, when the skies are clear, Bill can hear the moon calling. Then he climbs onto his bicycle and goes as far as he can up into the atmosphere – because, you see, he has a yearning to live weightless, and not be afraid of falling. He’ll tell you of his relationship with the moon, and his hopes that those who have been forced into corners can make use of the light that reflects off him, to find their way through the pain of being different. A supply of tissues is recommended for the tender hearted in the audience. Shows are at 7pm and tickets are R100 each through Webtickets. Details: www.webtickets.co.za
May 25-28
It’s Art in the Country round two. After last year’s successful event, we can vouch that this year’s three-day exhibition at the picturesque Harrington House in Hilton is totally worth the drive. Artists from across the country will be among those featured at the exhibition’s 60 stalls taking refuge under a giant marquee. The magical ambience will be complemented by the soulful tunes of Congolese-born singer songwriter René Tshiakanyi, and a bistro menu, including breakfast and child-friendly options, courtesy of celebrity chef Jackie Cameron and her crew. A full bar service will be available. Visitors also have the option of picnicking in the gorgeous Harrington House gardens with views over the Midlands. The exhibition is open from 10am to 8pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and from 9am to 2pm on Sunday. Tickets are R25 each (R15 for pensioners and free for under 18s) and include a brochure to the artists on show. Parking is practically limitless. Art in the Country has adopted iThemba Projects, a community development NPO partnering with the nearby community of Sweetwaters, as its charity of choice. Details: Facebook: @harcourtsartinthecountry and Instagram: @artinthecountry
May 27
If you’re in the mood for some tea and tasty treats, please support The South African Riding for the Disabled Association (SARDA) Durban’s High Tea Fundraiser. Hosted by the Durban Shongweni Club, the morning is set to be filled with fun, laughter and a special appearance by delightful local theatre star Belinda Henwood, best known as a regular face in KickstArt shows like Cinderella, The Jungle Book, The Wizard of Oz, Little Shop of Horrors. There are loads of lucky draws and prizes to be one. It’s all happening between 10am and 12pm and tickets are R300. All funds raised go to SARDA, an NPO providing free therapeutic horse riding to organisations, for children with special needs. Tickets are limited. Details: To book contact Tracy Moxey at marketing@sardadurban.org.za
