Making a difference one day at a time

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GEORGE NEWS - The George Arts Theatre came alive on Saturday 18 April as improv poet Fanie Walkenshaw, known as Left Sleeve, delivered a moving and often humorous performance that left a lasting impression.

Through his signature poetic storytelling, Walkenshaw guided the audience on a personal journey of self-discovery, drawing on his experiences of loss, disability and recovery from drug and alcohol addiction.

With honesty and wit, he tackled topics many avoid, even joking about his "missing calf muscle" while reflecting on resilience.

Anneke Coetzee, a local pianist and singer, added a touch of magic to the evening as she joined him on stage. Her final song from A Star is Born closed the night on a nostalgic note.

With more than 2.3 million followers across TikTok, Facebook and Instagram, Walkenshaw's message continues to resonate widely. His global reach was reflected by the audience, which included supporters who had arrived earlier the day after travelling from across South Africa and as far as the Netherlands, Mexico, Spain, the United Kingdom and Canada.

Known as the 'Left Sleeve family' or the 'Gooses', these fans brought biscuits decorated with ribbons and goose motifs.

Fanie Walkenshaw, aka Left Sleeve, on stage at the George Arts Theatre on Saturday 18 April. Photo: Sanjay Lalwani

For many, Walkenshaw's orbit has become a safe space for sharing and support. 'The Gooses' represents a shared journey of loyalty, mutual support, and rotating leadership, where strength lies in staying connected, lifting one another, and never facing life alone.

Central to his message is his faith and commitment to the 12-step recovery programme. Having celebrated seven years of sobriety on 16 March, he reminded the audience that addiction does not define a person. "Addicts are not bad people, but good people trying to get better," he said.

The ‘Left Sleeve family’ or the ‘Gooses’ at the George Arts Theatre. Some of these people have travelled from across the globe. Photo: Helena Kreike

His breakthrough came when Jennifer Lopez shared his work in 2024, helping him reach a global audience following a personal break-up. Despite this, Walkenshaw remains grounded, reminding audiences that every day is a new beginning, a message that continues to inspire hope.

Watch: Left Sleeve on the origins of his work and what’s next