A weekend in Makhanda: Stories that stir the soul

SALT performed at the 2025 National Arts Festival. Picture: Supplied They say time flies when you're having fun, but “fun” doesn’t even begin to describe what I experienced at the 2025 National Arts Festival this past weekend in Makhanda. What unfolded wasn’t just entertaining, it was moving, jarring, liberating, and, at times, downright soul-shaking. From poetic monologues and powerful dance pieces to emotionally-charged theatre, each performance offered more than just entertainment. It was a weekend of confronting hard truths, celebrating bold artistry, and experiencing, time and again, the transformative power of the arts. To kick things off, I had the privilege of experiencing SALT by Cape Ballet Africa, a captivating showcase of original South African choreography by Mthuthuzeli November, Kirsten Isenberg, and Michelle Reid. The production featured bold, original works that explored emotional depth, rhythmic power, and creative flair, complemented by the classical elegance o...