1 NOVEMBER
Contemporary Archive Project – a registered non-profit that works closely with KZN photographers on critical thinking and the development of new photographic work – will host its first group exhibition this year. Called Field Notes, the exhibition explores the stories mapped across KZN, from the bustling city of Durban to the landscapes of Nquthu, Tugela, Amaotana and more. Each photograph unearths personal narratives, subverting the traditional outsider perspective and offering an intimate view of faith, culture, rituals and the spaces we call home. The exhibition launches at 6pm on Friday, November 1 at The Chairman, Umhlanga and runs until November 17. It’s open Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10am to 2pm, Fridays from 12pm to 9pm and Saturdays from 10am to 1pm. On Saturday, November 9, there will be a walkabout, and photographers will be present to chat with guests about their work. Details: Contact Niamh Walsh-Vorster on 083 716 3827.
9 NOVEMBER
Have any musical instruments or gear lying around gathering dust? Durban musos The Tide will host a Music Gear Fair where like-minded individuals have the chance to buy, sell or swap items like guitars, amps, drums, vinyl, pedals, straps and more. The fair takes place from 8am to 12pm on Saturday, November 9 at the German Club in Westville – 7 Barham Road. You can book a table by contacting Dave on 083 353 6925 or Mark on 072 024 6917, or pop in on the day to browse everything on offer.
28 NOVEMBER
Mark your calendars for this one! As part of his 2024 tour, British singer-songwriter JP Cooper hits South African shores, stopping off in Durbs for one night only. He will share songs from his previous albums along with a host of fresh tracks. Fans are in for an unforgettable experience – opening act is Craig Lucas – filled with soulful melodies and emotional depth so be sure to book your tickets for this highly anticipated show that comes to The Playhouse Theatre on Thursday, November 28. Curtains up at 6.30pm and the fun ends at 10.30pm. Details: webtickets.co.za
UP AHEAD
Whether you’ve been a fan since the 90s or you’re just discovering their magic, you shouldn’t miss this legendary performance! Holding the all-time radio record for Most Top 10 Singles, the Goo Goo Dolls are bringing their chart-topping nostalgia rock to Durban this month and trust us; it’s going to be great! A show for young and old, fans will get to enjoy an evening of sing-alongs, good vibes and timeless hits that span generations. The band takes to the stage at the ICC in Durban on Thursday, December 5 and tickets are in huge demand so get yours now at Webtickets. Details: webtickets.co.za
If it’s Durban and it’s December … it has to be Trail of Lights time! Celebration is this year’s theme for the popular festive light extravaganza that comes to the Durban Botanic Gardens, in time to mark the gardens’175th anniversary, and promises a host of sparkling, original and new attractions. From food stalls and festive shopping to special characters and spectacular live selfie spots, a re-imagined Santa’s Workshop and Grotto, Build-A-Bear Workshop and a variety of themed areas, including the iconic Whale Tails created by the SA Association of Marine Biology Research. Paws and Claus evenings are also back, with the nights of December 8 and 12, earmarked for when visitors can bring along their ‘fur babies’ (sorry, dogs only) to join in the festive fun! Ticket sales (R50 a pet) from these evenings go to Feeding the Furballs charity. The Trail of Lights runs December 6 to January 3 from 6pm to 10pm each evening and will be closed on December 9, 10, 11, 25 and 31. Tickets are priced from R60 to R90 each, and are available through Webtickets and selected Pick n Pay outlets. Limited tickets will also be available at the door for R120 each.
