Mandla Mlangeni has carved a name for himself in collaborating with strongly rooted titans both locally and abroad such as but not limited to, David Murray, Evan Parker, Feya Faku, Louis Moholo, Shabaka Hutchings (UK), Ganesh Geymeier (CH), Barney Rachabane, Sipho Mabuse, Hugh Masekela, Khaya Mahlangu, Andile Yenana and Afrika Mkhize, to name a few.

This season sees traditional forms of art and performance being re-imagined through free-spirited, transdisciplinary collaboration, and the gentle exploration and reiteration of varying forms of labour. As a vital part of our social and economic machinery, the idea of work in its broadest sense is investigated within the context of our turbulent, contemporary, urban lives.

The AfricaRise Retail Concept Store will see Thula Sindi partnering with the BEST design creatives in Africa; to position them in the richest square mile in Africa; during the BEST shopping season in retail, to bring a unique and authentic experience to shoppers by providing a destination for African design.

“My biggest obsession is to show Africans and the world who the people of Africa really are, and this Festival remains a great showcase of our traditional and modern musical talents. It’s always a great party!” - Hugh Masekela

Like one of her heroes, Bheki Mseleku, whose album Home at Last, reflects a celebration of returning, Thandi feels a great eagerness to reconnect with her long-standing collaborators; bringing all her “becomings” and musically sharing a conversation on what’s new as she says: “I just wanna play!”