Events Around Durban and The Oyster Box Hotel and ECR Toy Story News

Christmas Eve Dinner and Dance

The Oyster Box: Tuesday 24 December

A sophisticated, six-course festive menu, created by Executive Chef, Kevin Joseph, with live music from the Stuart May Band, guarantees memories and mistletoe moments… on this ‘night before Christmas’.

Date:               Tuesday 24 December 

Time:              19h00 - 22h00

Venue:            The Grill Room

Price:              R 1100 per person

Saturday Live with Steve Newman & Sazi Dlamini

Afriportico Lounge @ the Bat Centre: Sat 28 Dec

Concert SA and The Headroom present Saturday Live at Afriportico Lounge at the Bat Centre with Steve Newman featuring Sazi Dlamini on 28 Dec from 8pm.  

An exemplary of instrumental guitar in South Africa, South African music artist Steve Newman is as gentle and understated as a meditating monk, evident in moments of his delicate technique. His rhythmic percussive style mesmerizes one into a journey of vast proportions where almost every emotional texture is visited. 

He is joined by Sazi Dlamini - a leading ethnomusicologist, composer and performer in the South African township style.He has recorded more than fifty original pieces of music employing self-made, indigenous Nguni (bows, drums & flutes) and other African musical instruments, collaborating with many distinguished colleagues.

Date                28 December

Time               8pm

Venue             Afriportico, BAT

Price               R50

Booking          At the door

(Source - Publicity Matters) 

38,000 toys collected during East Coast Radio’s Toy Story with Game 2013 campaign

(East Coast Radio and Game Team Members) 

Once upon a time, tens of thousands of children in KZN, would’ve faced an unhappy end-of-year holiday season. Children in hospitals, children who have no idea where their next good meal is coming from, children with no parents and no adult supervision. Thanks to the help of the people of KZN, East Coast Radio’s Toy Story with Game has managed to make a difference.

Some 38,000 toys have been collected since the campaign was launched at the end of October. During this period, east coasters helped raise around R1.3 million which went towards buying food parcels for the underprivileged.

Nearly 40 hours have been spent on road trips as our teams visited hospitals around the province and the Red Cross Air Mercy Service helped deliver toys and food parcels to areas our wheels couldn’t take us. In total, children in 55 hospitals in KZN benefitted from our Toy Story 2013 campaign.

East Coast Radio’s Toy Story with Game wrapped up on Thursday, 18 December 2013 with the Toy Story Cavalcade which took the teams to Addington, King Edward, RK Khan and Prince Mshiyeni Hospitals.

We’d like to convey our heartfelt thanks to each and every person in KZN who helped us help make a difference. You have brought a smile and even hope to thousands of children in our province. Thank you.

(Source - ECR)

I witnessed first hand the joy on each child as they received a toy.  Quite amazing.  I managed to ask ECR DJ Peter G what he thought of Toy Story? 'When you see the joy in the eyes of the child when you deliver the toys it makes it all worth it' said Peter G.

Article by +Fred Felton

We would like to wish you and yours a wonderful time over this festive season and have a successful 2014.

News for Artists and Musicians, Free Acting Workshops and Big Nuz for Durban

THE BAT CENTRE IS LOOKING FOR MUSICIANS

The Bat Centre in Durban is looking for emerging Jazz musicians and bands to feature on their upcoming programmes and events; lined up for every Sunday until March 2014 If you are interested in being part of this movement, you are required to send a Profile of your band to T-Bone Hlahane via email: publicity@batcentre.co.za.

PERFORM AT YOUR BEST! 
As a prelude to the 2014 PANSA MUSHO! Festival, the Dutch performing artist Nick Steur will be presenting two FREE workshops in Durban for interested arts practitioners.  
The workshops focus on finding your passion, researching it, and find the strongest ways of communicating it to an audience.
The workshops will be held on Tuesday 14 January from 10.00 - 12.00, and Thursday 16 January from 10.00 - 12.00. Each workshop will hold only 15 participants, so you must sign up for one of these now!
Selected participants will be asked to do a short assignment before the workshop, and during the workshop there will be activities/assignments and discussions about how to make a stronger presentation.

Please register for the workshop that you would prefer to attend by emailing Radwinn in the PANSA office on kzn@pansa.org.za by 15 December.
You will then receive a confirmatory email and the assignment early in January.  
This is an amazing opportunity to engage with an inspiring young artist from the Netherlands, who is creating waves with his performance art piece "Freeze" that will feature at the Musho! Festival on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 January.  
Nick will be in Durban courtesy of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, through Twist Theatre Development Projects, and the workshop is supported by the Arts and Culture Trust

DANCE VACANCIES FOR YOUNG DANCERS

There are vacancies for senior dancer students between 18-21yrs on the 2014 Dance for All Bridging Programme in 2014

To audition, please contact Dance for All if you have recently matriculated as a dance student, or have formal training in Contemporary Dance or Ballet, are between the age of 18-21, and will not be attending any other academic or dance institution during the day in 2014.

Class times:

- Monday - Thursday: 10h00 - 16h00

- Friday: 10H00 - 13H00

Contact details:

021 697 5509

allison@danceforall.co.za

International Opportunities for Singers

Masterclass and International Scholarship Programme Opportunities for Singers

Applications are invited from prospective participants in Masterclass, to be held in Pretoria in February 2014, conducted by Professor Josef Protschka from the Musikhochschule in Cologne, Germany.

Once again, in February 2014, Professor Protschka will be offering a Masterclass for South African singers - this time in conjunction with the University of Pretoria. The Masterclass will run from Monday 3 to Saturday 8 February 2014 at the University of Pretoria. Prospective candidates are asked to forward their applications to cb@join-mozart-festival.org. The application should include a CV and an audio recording (preferably mp3 files). The recording should include the following repertoire: one work each from the Baroque and Classical periods (preferably Mozart), a 19th Century opera aria, a 20th Century opera aria, plus a lied of the candidate's own choice.

Eight candidates will be accepted as active participants. The deadline for submission of application materials is 20 December 2013. Selected candidates are responsible for organising their own travel to and accommodation in Pretoria, but there is no charge for the Masterclass.

One student will be chosen for an academic year’s study with Professor Protschka at the Music College in Cologne. The Apollo Music Trust will cover the expenses of that year of study.

For further information please email Richard Cock at the Apollo Music Trust (rcock@iafrica.com) or phone 011 447 9264.

(Source - Pansa) 

Big Nuz coming to Durban 

Fanta did a study and found that teenagers are actually starved of having fun. They are burdened with responsibilities at a young age and in most cases this not out of choice but due to social pressures.  Fanta aims to save play by hosting festivals around the country to encourage teenagers to have fun and participate in different activities.

The Fanta Festival will be coming to Durban on Saturday 21 December where they will have various activity zones for teens and Big Nuz will be performing.

Please find details below:

Time: 11am-4pm

Venue:  Umlazi Comtech, Durban 

Article by +Fred Felton 

Gift Idea's For The Festive Season

So it's that time of year and I can imagine you running around the malls with your aluminium baseball bat trying to fight off people for that last special gift for someone.

Fear not, we have you covered.

A great gift idea is the new book 'Colour Me In' by Andrew Verster and Rick Andrew.
It is a colouring-in book for adults.  Children can also try their hand at it.

The book features sketches by famous artist Andrew Verster.
Each book has been signed by Andrew Verster.

There are limited copies left for sale but you can still pick some up either at
Artisan Gallery, 344 Florida Road.  Cell: 083-301-5747

There are also some copies available from Pieter Scholtz.
You can order from him on 031-368-2022

(Source - Grapefruit Press)

101 Tips For Twitter by Fred Felton

This book is now available in pocketbook format.  Perfect for the beach, the berg or the train.

Features insight from Mike Stopforth, Dede Watson, Ted Rubin, Mike Saunders and many more.

You can order direct from Fred:  falconscove@gmail.com 

Media Enquiries:  076-977-5788 

(Source - Falconscove) 

Things to Do tonight from Art Shows to Comedy with Glen Bo

'Drawn to Africa' in support of Project Rhino KZN will be opened by Sheelagh Antrobus

Opening: 18h30 on 12 December 2013 at Imbizo Gallery in Lifestyle Centre, Ballito.

For more details call 032-946-1937

Walkabout on Sunday 15 December @ 12h00

Vincent Reid is a pencil artist with a passion for Africa and with this extremely direct medium he succeeds to encapsulates the essence of the african outdoors.  His Solo exhibition entitled 'Drawn to Africa" at Imbizo Gallery in Ballito will be opened by Sheelagh Antrobus, who is in charge of project Rhino KZN PR.  Part of the sales will be donated to Project Rhino KZN.  For further information on Vincent's Art and Project Rhino KZN please visit www.projectrhinokzn.org and www.imbizogallery.co.za

(Source - Imbizo Art Gallery) 

Join Comedian Glen Bo and Friends at the Hilton Hotel tonight.  Bring a toy with for kids.  They will be collecting for Addington's Children Ward.

(Source - DSOC) 

THEATRE

Criss Cross Christmas

The Zone, Suncoast Casino:7 – 24 December

This festive season join the energetic trio performing in an original, delightful merry tale, Criss Cross Christmas at The Zone, Suncoast Casino and Entertainment World from 7 – 24 December. 

Renowned actress, Clare Mortimer has penned this charming play especially for the young ones which promises to be full of laughter, song, and dance and enthusiastic children even get to be a part of the play with audience participation. Joining Mortimer on stage for this comic Christmas story is much loved children’s theatre actors Bryan Hiles (Peter Pan, Cinderella, Snow White, Rumpelstiltskin) as Holly.

Date                7 – 24 December

Time               Daily at 11am

Venue             The Zone, Suncoast

Price               R60

Booking          Computicket, at the door or contact Ailsa on 083 250 2690

Sophiatown comes to Durban this festive season

If you're into tapping your feet and singing along with the actors during a lively musical, then Khwela Bafana is tailor-made for you.

KwaZulu-Natal's premier theatre hub, The Playhouse Company, is all set to delight audiences this festive season with this highly acclaimed musical, following sell-out seasons at the Victory and Market Theatres in Johannesburg.

Khwela Bafana celebrates the spirit that epitomised Sophiatown in the 1950s, the resilience and determination of its people and their ultimate triumph over adversity. The iconic music of the time, including unforgettable compositions by the great Todd Matshikiza, is recreated under the skilled direction of Sama Award-winning jazz pianist Themba Mkhize and features, among others, the celebrated Bra 'B' Ngwenya – a member of the original cast of the legendary musical King Kong.

Khwela Bafana runs at the Playhouse Loft Theatre from Thursday 12 December (preview) until Sunday 22 December. Performances commence at 19h00 and include matinees on Sundays at 14h30. Tickets are R60 for the preview and R80 for subsequent performances.

Bookings through Computicket or at Shoprite Checkers money market counters and at the Playhouse box office.

For information on block bookings contact 031 369 9456 / salescoordinator@playhousecompany.com

(Source - Publicity Matters) 

Article by +Fred Felton 

Book Launch Tonight and loads of events coming up for Durban

Book Launch at Adams Musgrave Centre Tonight 11/12/13 at 5h30pm for 6pm

The launch of 'Bull by the Horns' by Tod Collins.  Come by and meet Tod Collins the Underberg Vet who writes some amazing short stories.  He is also the author of 'Till the Cows Come Home.'

To RSVP Call Beverly on 086-134-1341 or email padams@adamsbooks.co.za

(Source - Adams Bookshop)

(Source - uShaka) 

uMhlanga Liberty Summer Trail Run / Walk

uMmhlanga Millennium Stage. Start at 6am 15 Dec:

For the first time, the event will cater for three events 5km and 12km run and walk and an 18km trail run.

Liberty as the main sponsor of the trail run

Entries are now open on the ROAG website: www.ROAG.co.za.

For more information you can contact buzzhilde@vodamail.co.za

Entrance fee is R40 for the 5km run and walk, R80 for the 12km Run and Walk and R100 for the 18km run.  Late entries will be accepted on the day. 

Umhlanga get ready to party 

Chartwell Drive Street Party

Chartwell Drive: 21 Dec

From 6pm until midnight

Chartwell Drive will be closed to traffic

FREE family-friendly street party to take place.

Entertainers – fire jugglers, mascots and clowns

Stalls selling festive fare; gift ideas; plenty of al-fresco meal options and live music.

Sponsored by Castle Lite

Buzzart!

KZNSA Gallery: Now on

Buzzart offers a one-stop shop for all festive shopping – including stocking-fillers and greeting cards. The Gallery will be stocked with art, craft, decor items, garments, jewellery, Christmas tree decorations, recycled art, ceramics, mosaics and accessories. Of particular mention is the KZN Association of Ceramic Artists who has contributed a range of items made by their members. There will also be a selection of paintings reinterpreting the works of iconic South African artist, Pierneef.  

The idea is to spend time leisurely browsing for all your Christmas presents – with gift ideas suitable for tots to grannies; work colleagues and loved ones. If one needs to pause for inspiration and sustenance, the KZNSA Gallery Cafe will be open! The idea is for Glenwood to be the place for festive fare – with Buzzart complementing the Glenwood Market in Bulwer Park – allowing for two Sunday morning festive shopping options – without having to move your car! 

Date                now on            / Tuesday to Sunday

Venue             KZNSA Gallery

Info                 031 277 1705

Address          166 Bulwer Road, Glenwood, Durban

(Source - Publicity Matters)  

HIRSCH’S UMHLANGA CHRISTMAS CAROLS BY CANDLE LIGHT, LATE NIGHT SHOPPING EXPERIENCE

Hirsch’s Umhlanga will be hosting carols by candle light on the 12^th of December from 17:30 to 20:00, bring the family and kids along.  There will be entertainment for the entire family.

BIG prizes to be won, 40 inch SAMSUNG LED TV and a 57cm WEBBER BRAAI by just attending, Christmas has come early, all you need to do is attend this evening to stand a chance to win.

All our BIG Brands will be in store cooking and AMAZING ONE NIGHT ONLY specials available.

RSVP to Warren on 0845130911 or warren@hirschs.co.za

(Source - Hirsch's) 

Durban to host largest South African Junior Chess Championships 2013 & Events Around Durban

Durban is to host the South African Junior Chess Championships for the first time in 11 years of the tournament’s history. Speaking at the media launch held earlier this week at host venue the ICC, Convenor Logan Reddy highlighted many milestone achievements for Durban. “This is the largest indoor sport event that has ever been held in Durban. All 2100 players will be playing at the same time. With support from the eThekwini Municipality and the Department of Sports and Recreation, the SAJCC 2013 will significantly contribute to economic growth and develops children by fostering non-racialism and non-sexism”.

Speaker of the Council, Logie Naidoo with some of the chess superstars. 

Representing the Municipality, Speaker of the Council, Logie Naidoo wished all players well and thanked them for their participation. Councillor Naidoo also praised the logo which he said, “captures the spirit of Durban. The King piece in the logo looks very much like the Umhlanga lighthouse.”

The event is expected to provide an economic boost of between R35 – 45 million for the City of Durban. Speaking at the event, Head of Durban Tourism Phillip Sithole said that, “we cannot sustain tourism if there is no multiculturalism.” He commended the SAJCC Local Organising Committee for presenting an event which shows dedicated investment in young people and also noted the role of event organisers in bringing events of this calibre to Durban.

The SAJCC will host players from 220 teams and 125 participating children from nine KZN rural areas.

The tournament will run from 15-21 December 2013 and the Gala Dinner is set for 14 December 2013. Minister for Sports and Recreation Fikile Mbalula is expected to attend.

For further information, please contact:

Adila Vahed

Adivah in Africa Event Management

adila@adivahmarketing.co.za

074 588 98 53

(Source - SAJCC)

Events Around Durban

Catch Maxwell at the Wavehouse, Gateway 9 December.

You are invited to a book launch at St Clements, Monday 9 December 5h30pm for 6pm.

RSVP 031-202-2511  

(Source - Mondays At St Clements) 

Related articles

• Need to get around Durban? Try Uber

Theatre Review - Jack And The Beanstalk

A Breath Of Fresh Air

(Image courtesy of KickstArt Productions)

Show: Jack And The Beanstalk
Written and Directed by Steven Stead
Designed by Greg King
Cast: Shelley Mclean, Liesl Coppin, Rory Booth, Nathan Kruger, Darren King, Jessica Sole, Peter Court, Bryan Hiles, Lyle Buxton
Venue: Sneddon Theatre

This is another KickstArt Production and it shows.  All KickstArt Shows have a high level of professionalism about them and this show is full of professionals.  Packed full of the best talent that Durban has to offer.  You are seeing the best of the best.  If you don't know the tale by now this is the story of Jack (Rory Booth) who sells his family cow to two scoundrels Claude and Cecil (Scene-stealers both Peter Court and Bryan Hiles) in return for some magic beans.  The beans land up in the field and so grows a huge beanstalk which leads to the realm of the Giant (Lyle Buxton) who reminds me of someone.  Anyway there is a hen that lays magic eggs and a harp made of gold.
Prepare yourself for a wonderful pantomine, there is great interaction with the audience.  Look out for Lady Perfidia Beastly (Liesl Coppin) and Rory Booth.  Darren King is superb as Jack's Mom, loved the outfits.  Shelley Mclean is wonderful as the good fairy.

Look out for some animated sets it almost feels like you are in a comic book.  There is much work backstage as well and the crew is to be commended.

There is lots of audience interaction and some superb singing and dancing.  This show received a standing ovation at the performance I was at and you can see why.

The perfect outing for the family at this time of year.

Rating 10/10

Need to get around Durban? Try Uber

What is Uber?

Well Uber is a great new fast and reliable transport option for you in Durban.
Available all over the world and now also in South Africa.

It all works with an app.  You download it for your device and request a driver.
You can also track where they are on a map while you wait.
Pick up time is very fast and they are striving to make it even faster.

They have a whole range of vehicles to choose from to fit your budget.

Check them out here - https://www.uber.com/
You can also find them on Twitter - https://twitter.com/Uber_Durban
Find their App in your App Store, just search for Uber


The good folk at Uber have given Umhlanga Life Readers a nice special.
All you have to do is use the promo code UMHLife and you get 
R150 off your first 2 trips if you are a new Uber user.

How cool is that!

So check them out.  A great option for you during this festive season with all the parties you will be going to.

Article by +Fred Felton
Images courtesy of Uber

Book Launch Tonight, Art Show coming up and a Networking Breakfast

A great book launch coming up tonight for Durban.

(Source - Adams Bookshop)

Look out for this Art Show coming soon:

For more info call: 072-229-6530 

(Source - Mwimbi Fine Art Gallery) 

Are you interested in business networking?  This might be for you:

(Source - Hirsch's) 

Film Review: Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom

Film: Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom
Cast: Idris Elba, Naomie Harris, Terry Pheto, Riaad Moosa, Jamie Bartlett
Director: Justin Chadwick
Cinema:  Cine Centre, Suncoast

This week I managed to see the new Mandela movie at the Premiere at Cine Centre.
It's an interesting movie.  Idris Elba (Thor: The Dark World) has a mountain to climb
with this role.  Possibly his biggest role.  He gives us great insight into the character of
Nelson Mandela.

The film features a who's who of South African cinema.  Look out for Jamie Bartlett as Mandela's prison guard.  Naomie Harris does a good job of showing us Winnie Mandela.  Tony Kgoroge plays Walter Sisulu very well indeed.  Riaad Moosa (Material) plays Ahmed Kathrada.

This film takes us on a tour of South African history and there is much detail in this movie.  From the old car licence plates to familiar cars from each time period.

Director Justin Chadwick (Bleak House) gives us a visual feast showing us how Mandela goes on this journey that eventually leads him to becoming the President of South Africa.

Worth a viewing.

Rating 7/10

Useful Links: www.mandelamovie.co.za

Facebook - MandelaMovie
Twitter - @MandelaMovie

View The Trailer Here:

(Source - Movieweb - YouTube)

Review by +Fred Felton

How To Become A Film Critic

Sometimes you happen to have some luck.  During the Durban International Film Festival 2013 I happened to sit in on a session with well known South African Film Critic Leon van Nierop.

He had some free time and decided to share his knowledge with the small group of writers who wanted to know all about being a film critic.

These were some of the tips he shared with us:

• Always remember the Director is trying to share something with you
• Don't tell the story, only write about 2 or 3 lines about it.
• A review should open the film up for debate and analysis.
• I never read reviews because it influences you.
• Never go into a cinema with preconceived ideas.
• The style of the film is so important
• A good film critic cannot be bought
• Be honest
• A good camera interprets
• You are working with peoples lives
• Your review must be eloquent and entertaining
• A review must be accessible
• Ask your audience 'What do you think?'  
• Make up your own mind about the film.
• What was the film trying to say?
• Does the director give you insight into the character's soul?
• Is the camera a character?
• Ask 'Why has a camera been placed there?' 
• Look at the music, how is it used?
• Look at the lighting, how is it used?
• Do they all work if so why?
• Do they all fail if so why?
• Watch lots of movies.
• Does the film communicate with me?
• Does it motivate me?  
• Does it entertain me?
• Know about the history of a film eg Superman
• Know the history of a genre
• Talk about the film afterwards with your friends

For those of you that were there it was a wonderful session.

What tips do you have to share on being a film critic? 

Article by +Fred Felton 

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Ster Kinekor Gateway Hosts Durban Premiere of Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom

Ster Kinekor at Gateway recently hosted the movie premiere for the much awaited, Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom film.

The film celebrates Nelson Mandela’s extraordinary journey from his childhood in a rural village to his election as president of South Africa. The film is an intimate portrait of the making of a modern icon.

Over 700 guests attended the event including producer, Anant Singh and the South African principal cast among whom were Tony Kgoroge (Walter Sisulu), Riaad Moosa (Ahmed Kathrada), Zolani Mkiva (Raymond Mhlaba), Terry Pheto (Evelyn Mase), Atandwa Kani (teenage Mandela) and Deon Lotz (Kobie Coetsee).

Film Star - Terry Pheto 

“We’re very proud to have co-hosted the Durban premiere of Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom. The film is amazing and is a beautifully told story of Mandela’s life and his experiences. Idris Elba, along with his fellow cast members, has done a great job in portraying Mandela as a man who values love, patience, trust and family – it’s an excellent portrayal of the book. I feel even prouder to be a South African after watching Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom. I’d also like to use this opportunity to congratulate Anant Singh and everybody who worked behind the scenes on a job well done,” says Akash Maharaj, Centre Manager at Gateway Theatre of Shopping.

The movie will be released at all Ster Kinekor cinemas on the 28^th of November 2013 while there will be paid sneak screenings on 23 and 24 November.

Look out for Gateway Theatre of Shopping on Facebook and Twitter.

(Source - Gateway) 

The Trailer for Mandela:  Long Walk To Freedom

(Source - YouTube - Movieweb)

Movie Review - Captain Phillips

Movie - Captain Phillips
Cast - Tom Hanks, Barkhad Abdi, Max Martini, Chris Mulkey
Screenplay - Billy Ray
Director - Paul Greengrass
Cinema - Cine Centre, Suncoast Casino

If one were to describe this movie in one word the word 'harrowing' comes to mind.
This is on the edge of your seat stuff.

Expertly directed by Paul Greengrass (The Bourne Ultimatum).

This man knows how to up the tension in a big way.

We join Captain Phillips (Tom Hanks) as he departs on his next ship.  Captain Phillips is the captain of one of those huge cargo ships that you see in the harbour.  This ship has to go down a dangerous route near Somalia where there are many pirates just waiting to attack the ships.

The ship is trailed by a Somali Pirate (Barkhad Abdi).  Great performance by him.
Eventually they catch up to the ship and board it.  The tension escalates as the U.S. Navy enters the fray and a SEAL team is brought in.

Look out for Max Martini (The Unit) as the U.S. Navy SEAL Commander.
There are some wonderful scenes in this movie and you leave the cinema in awe at the acting, writing and direction.

It is rumoured that Tom Hanks might just win the Oscar for his portrayal.
Based on what I saw I think he just might.

Rating 9/10

The Trailer

(Trailer - Sony - YouTube)

Review by +Fred Felton

Help ECR with their Toy Story Corporate Day

Today is the day to help out East Coast Radio with their Toy Story Corporate Day.
If you are a corporate dedicated to business in KZN see if you can help out.

There will be many celebrities and ECR DJ's on the phones today.
Some of the celebs include Deena Naidoo, Lisa Raleigh, Gangs Of Ballet, The Parlotones,
Damon Beard, Darren Maule, Makhozi Khoza, Abi Ray, Peter G, Megan Coleman and many more.

Call to pledge: 031-368-3603

Article and Images by +Fred Felton

Review Of The New Imax Theatre in Gateway & a review of Thor: The Dark World

There is a new Imax Theatre in Ster Kinekor, Gateway Shopping Centre, Umhlanga.

Last night I was invited to the launch of the new Imax Theatre in South Africa.
Opening in Ster Kinekor, Gateway Shopping Centre, Umhlanga, the evening was filled with wonderful food and drink, photo opportunities and a wonderful buzz in the air.

Ster Kinekor had especially set out a special theatre for their IMAX theatre.  Brand new seating and a huge screen.  I loved the attention to detail with a great space for your coldrink and popcorn.
The MC for the evening was Sureshnie Rider from 5FM and she had the audience laughing and taking selfies.
No matter where you sat you got the full experience of IMAX and it is an experience.

CEO of Ster-Kinekor Theatres: Fiaz Mahomed

Says Fiaz Mahomed, CEO of Ster-Kinekor Theatres: “We are confident that the time for IMAX® is now. We see its return as a wonderful opportunity for Ster-Kinekor to continue to deliver on its promise to bring the unrivalled power of the cinema experience to our audiences.

“The powerful IMAX® film slate will enable us to offer a wide selection of the world’s latest blockbuster titles from Hollywood and Bollywood, which is what our audiences expect to see on the massive IMAX screen. Bollywood films, in particular, continue to be an important focus market for us, particularly here in the greater Durban region,” commented Mahomed.

 “As Ster-Kinekor, we are focused on providing ongoing moments of ‘impact’ cinema – the element of surprise, launching new sites to reach more audiences, new digital technologies that continue to enhance the cinema experience, delivering a best-in-class online booking facility and providing more personal communication with customers via our various social media platforms. We need to ensure that our audiences keep coming back to enjoy more great moments, and launching this IMAX® theatre is the next evolution in our journey.”

Representing IMAX® at the Gateway opening was Giovanni Dolci, VP Theatre Development, EMEA at IMAX® Corporation, who stated: “We are delighted to welcome Ster-Kinekor to the IMAX® business and believe our partnership will not only raise our visibility in South Africa, but will also set the stage for further mutual growth opportunities in the region. 

“Our agreement with South Africa’s number-one exhibitor at the country’s number-one cinema complex represents the ideal scenario under which to establish IMAX®’s first commercial multiplex entry into the country. I would like to take this opportunity to wish Ster-Kinekor much success with this new venture, and we look forward to expanding our theatre network in South Africa,” stated Dolci.

On Friday, 08 November, the IMAX® theatre at Gateway will open with the international release, of Marvel’s latest superhero epic, Thor: The Dark World: An IMAX 3D Experience.

“Our role is to entice the consumer to watch a film as it was made to be seen – on the big screen. The IMAX Experience® will take this viewing proposition to the next level. With more than 25 full-length feature films expected for release in IMAX® during 2014, and the remainder of this year featuring big titles including Hunger Games: Catching Fire, Ender’s Game and The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, we are looking forward to what we believe is going to be a really big year for Ster-Kinekor,” concludes Mahomed.

Film Review - Thor: The Dark World: An IMAX 3D Experience

Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Tom Hiddleston, Anthony Hopkins, Idris Elba

Director: Alan Taylor

This film marks the return of Thor as he battles to save the Earth and the Nine Realms.

This time Thor (Chris Hemsworth) fights to restore order across the cosmos.  An ancient race led by the vengeful Malekith return to plunge the universe into darkness.

Look out for a great performance by Idris Elba (Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom).

There are some amazing action scenes in this film.  Watching it in IMAX is truly a wonderful experience.  

You get a bonus point if you can spot Stan Lee in this movie.  

Remember not to leave when the closing credits pop up.  There is a nice surprise for you after the credits.  

Rating 9/10

The Trailer for Thor: The Dark World

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(Images and quotes courtesy of Ster-Kinekor) 

Article and Review by +Fred Felton