Pencil these events into your diary right now
February 11 to March 1
Durban art lovers are in for a treat as the prestigious Rust-en-Vrede Portrait Awards Top 40 Tour arrives at the KZNSA Gallery. Showcasing some of South Africa’s most compelling contemporary portraiture, the touring exhibition brings together the finalists from the 2025 awards, offering a powerful snapshot of identity, skill and storytelling across the country. Among the highlights are works by two KwaZulu-Natal artists. Senzelw’umusa Mathe stands out for her rare use of tapestry crochet. Her intricately crafted portrait Bazali Bami (‘My Parents’) pays tribute to the love and care invested in her upbringing and marks a special homecoming moment for the young artist and her family. Also featured is At the Louvre by Durban-based high school art teacher Gary McIver. Painted in oil on canvas, the work captures one of his students quietly drawing in a sunlit classroom. Blending classical technique with a contemporary narrative, the portrait reflects McIver’s belief that the classroom is where many artistic journeys begin. Founded in 2013, the biennial Rust-en-Vrede Portrait Awards celebrates excellence in two-dimensional portraiture, from realism to abstraction. This year’s overall winner, Malik Mani, received top honours for his hyper-realistic drawing Mask. For Durban audiences, the Top 40 Tour offers a rare opportunity to experience an exhibition of national significance – up close and in person.
Details: The exhibition runs from February 11 to March 1 during regular gallery hours. Entry is free (unless otherwise stated). For more info visit rust-en-vrede.com
January 30
Durban comedy favourites Aaron McIlroy and Lisa Bobbert-McIlroy are back with Bump & Grind, a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud musical sketch comedy bursting with energy, heart and trademark MacBob madness. Directed and choreographed by Daisy Spencer, this slick production blends sharp character comedy with show-stopping song and dance. Audiences are taken on a wild ride through a helter-skelter parade of characters, from much-loved favourites Bruce and Charmaine as Elvis impersonators, pensioners Beatrice and Max, and the ever-wise Dr Veejay, to bold new creations including AI androids, Latin dance sensations and an Irish preacher chasing stand-up glory. The soundtrack is just as eclectic, featuring hits from Talking Heads, Lady Gaga, Elvis Presley, The Beatles, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey and a crowd-pleasing ’80s medley. Described as ‘a sparkly cracker of song, dance and off-the-wall humour,’ Bump & Grind promises a riotous night of top-class comedy and musical brilliance. Details: Showtime is 7pm on January 30 at Talloula in Botha’s Hill. Tickets, priced at R220, are available at webtickets.co.za. Picnic baskets are welcome. No outside drinks, as a full bar is available. For food pre-orders, contact Rowena on 082 304 6495.
February 7 and 8
Experience the legendary music and drama of ‘THE CHAIN’ – The Fleetwood Mac Story with The Reals at Rhumbelow Theatre. This tribute takes you through the band’s iconic 30-year journey, from its British blues beginnings in 1967 to its transformation into a California pop powerhouse in the mid-seventies. Famous not only for their hits but also for their tangled relationships, Fleetwood Mac turned personal chaos into musical gold – most notably with the album Rumours, featuring timeless tracks like Go Your Own Way, Dreams, and Don’t Stop. Durban favourites The Reals – Dawn Selby (keyboard), Barry Thomson (guitar), Robz Millar (bass), and Mali Sewell (drums) joined by guest singer Marion Loudon and guitarist Colin Peddie bring these classics to life, . Expect a faithful recreation of all your favourites, including Little Lies, 7 Wonders, Everywhere, Landslide, and, of course, The Chain. Enjoy authentic sound, nostalgic vibes, and a night that celebrates one of the world’s most beloved bands.
Details: Don’t miss it on February 7 and 8 at the Rhumbelow Theatre, Cunningham Road, Durban. The wheelchair-friendly venue opens 90 mins before show. You can take your own food but no outside alcohol is allowed. Tickets are priced from R180 to R220 and you can book through 082 499 8636.
February 7
South Africa’s most-loved laugh fest, Kings & Queens of Comedy, returns to the Durban ICC, marking an impressive 14 years of laughter, legacy and live entertainment excellence. Presented by Blu Blood in association with East Coast Radio, this iconic comedy showcase brings together a royal line-up of the country’s finest comedic talent. This year’s all-star ensemble is nothing short of legendary, featuring Tumi Morake, Joey Rasdien, Krijay Govender, David Kau, Annalakshmi, Vafa Naraghi, Kaseran Pillay, and Vikash Mathura in his much-loved character Harry Mama. Presiding over the evening and keeping order in the laughter kingdom is the incomparable Darren Maule, returning as host. Whether you’re a long-time fan or simply looking for a brilliant night out, Kings & Queens of Comedy promises big laughs, unforgettable moments and a truly regal comedy experience.
Details: February 7 at the Durban ICC. Tickets, priced from R150, are available at blubloodtickets.com
