Ten spyte van-konserte vier mondigwording

Pierneefteater and Cordis Trust Celebrate 21 Years of Showcasing Talents

The annual concerts and exhibitions hosted by the Pierneefteater and Cordis Trust are marking their 21st year of existence. Two shows are scheduled this year to highlight various talents of people with disabilities in the arts.

Teatereienaar Jopie Koen and art sponsor Fanie Marais joined forces in 2003 to establish the Pierneefteater, aiming to create a forum and platform for individuals with disabilities in performing and visual arts. Both were previously associated with the Pretoria poetry group Die Woordgilde.

Koen emphasized the significance of the Ten Spyte Van concerts and exhibitions, noting the profound impact of giving individuals the opportunity to showcase their talents on stage and share it with an audience.

Expressing gratitude towards Marais (82) and Cordis Trust for making these opportunities possible since 2003, Koen highlighted the transformative experiences these events offer.

Marais, inspired by his late daughter Mardene’s talents, established the Cordis Trust in 1999 to commemorate her skills in writing and promote compassion, hope, and Afrikaans literature.

Renowned for his exceptional memory and passion for theatre and music films, singer David Lombard, a resident of Ons Huis, will be performing at the upcoming Ten Spyte Van concert. Lombard’s repertoire includes songs from popular movies such as “Toy Story” and “Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.”

Lombard’s mother, Christa, commended her son’s unique abilities despite his challenges, stating that his profound knowledge and recollection of the entertainment industry make him a remarkable individual.

The lineup for the concerts also includes other talented performers such as the blind singer HW Helberg, Marileen Booysen accompanied by Wikus Visser on guitar, and blind composer Jody-Ann showcasing her own compositions.

Jazz The Vocalist, a singer with cerebral palsy, will be captivating the audience with his performance, alongside poet and motivational speaker Daphney Thwala, who will be reciting excerpts from her published works.

In addition to the musical performances, informational sessions will be conducted by various organizations, including the Movement Disorder Support and the National Council for Persons with Disabilities.

Exhibitions by members of Vlooigoed, Huis YANA, Movement Disorder Support, and the National Council for Persons with Disabilities will also be featured during the event.

For further information, contact [email protected] or message 072 460 5568. Voluntary donations will serve as entry passes for the artists.

Source: The Citizen