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GEORGE NEWS & VIDEO - An exciting arts festival is planned to raise money for maintenance at the Dotsure George Arts Theatre. Known as the Grand Ol' Dame Arts Festival, it will take place from 17 to 21 March 2022. This was announced by Reneé van Rensburg, chairperson of the George Society of Arts.
The serious need for maintenance at the theatre was again highlighted last week with the floods in George. Some parts of the building were flooded, with the bad weather causing more damage to the roof of this historic George landmark.
A new project, "Save our Grand Ol' Dame", was started earlier this year. This name was chosen because the building is seen as a beautiful old lady. Earlier this year, R20 000 was raised at a collaborative event called "Bikers for Theatre" and the money has already been used to address some of the damp on the walls.
The latest initiative is the next part, with the objective to raise R100 000 to fix the roof. Van Rensburg told George Herald that two Festival Dames, Lizz Meiring and Marion Holm, have been invited and will perform at the festival.
Although they will be the focus, the organisers are catering for everyone. The programme includes children's theatre, a jazz show, a classical music concert, a local youth performance on Human Rights Day, many other live shows and a visual art exhibition by local artists.
"The festival promises to be fun for everyone," said Van Rensburg.
VIDEO - SAVE THE THEATRE:
Houtbosch Winery will offer delicious food for sale and will also present wine and gin tastings. Sweets, candy floss, and coffee and cake will be handled by the Backstage Lounge.
Van Rensburg says the theatre now needs repair work more than ever. "We have no other choice and the repair work must be done. If we don't do it, parts of the ceiling will collapse. The safety of the public is at stake." The theatre is one of the last community theatres left in South Africa.
She urged the community to support the festival and shows.
The public and companies can also sponsor parts of the festival. The Festival Dames' accommodation will be sponsored by Loerie Guesthouse and The Noble Ant Guesthouse.
Sponsors are needed for amphitheatre performers and advertising. Businesses and patrons who sponsor any aspect of the festival will receive advertising. They should contact Van Rensburg at chair@georgeartstheatre.co.za or 072 990 5975.
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