His heart is always on his Left Sleeve

ENTERTAINMENT NEWS - There was something special in the room at the George Arts Theatre on Saturday evening 29 August, as South African writer and motivational speaker Fanie Walkenshaw, better known as Left Sleeve, shared his stories with a small and intimate audience.

Introduced by Nikki du Toit from Dis lekker in George, Left Sleeve quickly had the audience hanging on his every word.

His freelance poetic storytelling, humour and natural interaction made for an evening that felt less like a performance and more like a personal conversation.

Some audience members who had seen Left Sleeve on stage before made sure to get tickets for this performance, showing just how much people enjoy his unique storytelling and inspiring message.

The evening was streamed and recorded live for TikTok, connecting the George audience with his international following, which he says numbers around half a billion subscribers worldwide.

Left Sleeve's work draws heavily on his personal journey as a recovering addict and alcoholic, weaving stories of recovery, gratitude, creativity and life into his latest show, Bederf jouself/Spoil Yourself.

Now living in George, Left Sleeve is likely to become a familiar face on the local arts scene, with more performances expected in the future.

Fanie Walkenshaw, better known as Left Sleeve, with 10-year-old Lila Gerber, who accompanied him on keyboard. Lila also delighted the audience with a beautiful song, accompanying herself on piano.

New George resident Heidi Barnard attended a show at the George Arts Theatre for the first time - and what a way to make her first visit, enjoying Left Sleeve’s performance. Photo: Michelle Pienaar