One of South Africa’s most enduring and award-winning designers, Marianne Fassler, will show her new Autumn/Winter collection at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Joburg 2015 on 5 March, 19h15.
As head designer for Leopard Frock, known for her use of bright colours and daring prints, Marianne Fassler has an aesthetic which has been described as an idiosyncratic and unique fusion of Johannesburg vibrancy and African-traditional design.
“The Winter 2015 collection is all about colour. The studio has been exploring new crafting techniques using raw South African Angora wool mohair and hand dyed pure silks to create lightweight warmth and cosiness,” says Fassler about her latest collection.
Having worked as a designer for more than two decades, few people have left such an indelible mark on the South African fashion landscape and it is this reputation which Marianne Fassler – who was also named Designer of the Year at the 2014 AFI Africa Fashion Awards – continues to demonstrate whenever her creations are sent down the fashion week runway.
With design greats like Marianne Fassler continuing to produce cutting-edge design, and platforms like AFI Fastrack and AFI Next Generation launching young talent, it is no surprise that South African fashion is developing at an unprecedented pace and gaining international attention in the process.
Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Joburg, the country’s leading winter/autumn collection fashion event, will run from March 5-7 at Johannesburg’s premier shopping destination, Melrose Arch.
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After debuting with a sold out 6-week run in Joburg last year, The Greatest Love of All – The Whitney Houston Show starring Belinda Davids will be returning to the Joburg Theatre for a limited season from 22 January – 15 February 2015.
This brilliant concert featuring South Africa’s own Belinda Davids is equal parts fun, touching and uplifting. Accompanied by a live band and dancers, Davids pays tribute to one of the world’s most revered singers by performing over 2 hours of Houston’s pop hits.
And there is no person better equipped to do so. In addition to having a voice described as “jaw-droppingly similar” to the pop diva, Davids openly acknowledges that Houston is her personal idol and was the original inspiration for her own career when she began singing at the age of 14.
“I want people to come and remember Whitney when she was at the top of her game and when she was fabulous”, says Davids.
And people all over the world have done exactly that, with South Africa, New Zealand, Singapore, Canada and the USA already hosting sold-out performances in the show’s first year of touring.
The show includes over 20 of Houston’s most popular tracks taken from the full span of her career, including ‘I Will Always Love You’, ‘I Wanna Dance With Somebody’, ‘Didn’t We Almost Have It All’, ‘I’m Every Woman’, ‘Exhale (Shoop Shoop)’, ‘Million Dollar Bill’ and more.
Davids will again be directed by Showtime Management CEO John Van Grinsven Snr. and joined on tour by the production team responsible for the worldwide hit show Michael Jackson HIStory starring Kenny Wizz.
THE GREATEST LOVE OFALL opens on The Mandela stage at Joburg Theatre on January 22nd and will run until February 15th. The show runs from Thursdays – Saturdays at 8pm and Sundays at 2pm. Ticket prices range from R160 to R350, and are on sale by visiting www.joburgtheatre.com, or by calling the theatre’s direct ticketing line on 0861 670 670. Discounted rates for groups of ten or more are available by calling the theatre on 011 877 6853.
Social Media Twitter handle: @joburgtheatre
Hashtag: #GreatestLoveOfAll
A little more on Belinda Davids
Belinda Davids was born in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, and began performing professionally at the age of 14. She has never had vocal training and is blessed with a 4 octave vocal range, and hence the ability to sing any genre. Her musical heart has always been R&B; Belinda’s inspirations as a child were Aretha Franklin, Anita Baker, Chaka Khan, Donny Hathaway, Michael Jackson and the one artist whom she still, to this day, honours in every show she performs – Whitney Houston.
As a young girl one of the very first LP’s Davids ever owned was a song called “Hold Me” by Teddy Pendergrass and Whitney Houston. The quality and style Whitney portrayed in this song struck a cord and Davids’ fascination with the icon grew. She sang Whitney’s music at every chance: at family gatherings, talent competitions and to friends whilst playing on the street. Like many young girls at that time her bedroom walls were plastered with posters and magazine cut-outs of the icon. Whitney’s influence was so strong it inspired everything from her dress sense to her hairstyles.
As a young woman Belinda had the burning desire to live out her dreams and follow in her idols footsteps. She took on the club circuit and her performances left many people amazed at how similar she sounded to the icon.
In the mid 90’s Belinda caught the eye of record executives at Tusk Records, which spawned the album “Belinda Davids”. Three of the songs on this album, which Belinda wrote, were released as singles: “This I Swear”, “This Is My Life” and “We Go Together”. The latter was number one for six weeks in South Africa.
Davids promoted her album all over South Africa for a number of years at various hotels, clubs & cabarets. She opened shows for many international acts when they visited South Africa including Michael Jackson’s History Tour, The Manhattans, The Temptations and Peaches and Herbs. Years after her debut album Davids decided to travel abroad to expand her musical career, which took her to Dubai, London and Hong Kong to perform in major hotels and clubs, with renowned success.
Whilst performing “I Will Always Love You” at a hotel in Hong Kong she was requested by the audience to sing acapella as they thought she was lip-syncing to the original Whitney Houston song, after which she received a standing ovation.
After many years on the road she finally settled in Los Angeles where she started to focus on getting her solo career back on track. In L.A she collaborated with R&B singer/producer Sam Salter who worked on a couple of her promotional tracks. She also caught the attention of many R&B artists who asked her to perform and tour with them, such as Keyshia Cole, Monica, Johnny Gill, Kelly Price and Keri Hilson. She appeared on The Jay Leno Show and The George Lopez Show as a back-up vocalist for Monica.
In 2015 Belinda Davids will once again showcase her exquisite voice as she takes on the lead role in the Showtime Management production, The Greatest Love of All – The Whitney Houston Show, a show dedicated to keeping alive the music and spirit of the late, great and incomparable Whitney Houston.
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Multi-platinum artist Chris Brown returns to SA for two concerts only.
Grammy Award winning and multi-platinum-selling singer-songwriter Chris Brown returns to South Africa next year for two concerts only. “Breezy” begins his tour at the Coca-Cola Dome, Johannesburg on Thursday, 2 April 2015 followed by a second concert at the Moses Mabhida People’s Park, Durban on Saturday, 4 April 2015. Ticket sales now available at ticketpro.co.za
Brought to South Africa by Glen21 Entertainment, Jalibird and Vertex Events in association with Channel O, the Chris Brown X Tour Live in SA concerts are part of a world tour to celebrate the release of his sixth studio album entitled X. SA Promoters, Glen Netshipise, Sobukwe Jali and Thato Segaole are particularly pleased to bring back one of the biggest names in the music industry and to have South Africa as a part of Chris Brown’s international tour promoting his latest album.
The album which sees Grammy Award winning artist, Chris Brown teaming up with some of today’s hottest artists in R&B, Hip-Hop and Pop, such as Usher, Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj, Rick Ross and Tyga was released on 16 September via RCA Records. With over one million in sales of “Loyal” featuring Lil Wayne and Tyga, Brown continues to prove his staying power as the single claimed the No. 1 spot on Mainstream R&B/Hip chart for nine weeks, eight weeks at the top of the R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay chart and two weeks at No. 1 on the Rhythmic chart.
Brown’s latest track “New Flame” featuring Usher and Rick Ross is already Top 20 at both Urban and Rhythm radio and growing quickly. Coupled with previously released chart-topping hits “Love More” featuring Nicki Minaj, “Don’t Think They Know” featuring Aaliyah and “Fine China,” Brown has gained critical praise and excitement from the public for X. Regarding the new album, Brown has said, “I want everyone to take a journey with me through ‘X.’ We’re going to experience the highs and the lows, the love and the pain.”
X is the follow-up to Brown’s 2012 chart-topping album Fortune, which debuted at No. 1 on both the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart and Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums Chart and earned Brown a Grammy nomination for Best Urban Contemporary Album.
Following the phenomenal response to the sell-out 2012 Chris Brown Carpe Diem SA tour, a high demand for tickets is anticipated so fans are encouraged to book now. Don’t miss mega star, Chris Brown in SA next year! Tickets can be bought on line only at ticketpro.co.za For transaction enquiries and assistance email info@ticketpro.co.za or call 0861-008-277, weekdays from 8am to 4pm. For tour information visit: www.chrisbrownsatour.co.za. Keep in touch on Twitter @CBSATOUR.
CHRIS BROWN X TOUR LIVE IN SA – TOUR INFORMATION
Johannesburg Date: Thursday, 2 April 2015
Venue: Coca Cola Dome
Ticket prices:
Golden Circle: R1500
General access unreserved standing R1250
General Access reserved seating R1250
Mezzanine Level: R750
Durban Date: Saturday, 4 April 2015
Venue: Moses Mabhida Stadium People’s Park
Ticket prices:
Golden Circle: R1100
General Access: R690
Ticket enquiries and assistance with transactions: info@ticketpro.co.za or 0861-008-277
Hours of operation: Weekdays 8am to 4pm
Please note that no reservations can be made on this number
It is said, go big or go home… And that is exactly what BOSS MODELS did, they went bigger than ever before! #TheBOSSParty14
On Saturday 06 December South Africa’s top models, A-listers and elite media came together for an evening of glitz and glamour. The BOSS made me do it was not your ordinary turn-up. Newly opened Harem, Rosebank played host to one of the most anticipated party of the year. Greeted by flashing lights as the photographers battled it out to get a glimpse of the action on the Black Carpet. Models were everywhere!
There was no way that FOMO and “Eskom” could’ve kept everyone away, why stay at home in the dark when you could party up a storm and rub shoulders with the best in the industry? Sponsored by Belvedere Luxury Vodka you can be assured that no glass ran empty.
With the sound system at the forefront of its design, it’s a given that the dance floor was packed as everyone moved to the beats. BOSS definitely made sure they had the hottest DJ’s in the industry, ensuring the party never ends.
The BOSS definitely made me do it! Hands down the hottest party of the year. Catch you on the Black Carpet next year for an even bigger turn-up.
For more updates, please follow:
Infinite Public Relations
@InfiniteComPR www.infinitecom.co.za
Belvedere Luxury Vodka
@belvederevodka
Harem Luxury Clubbing
@harem_sa
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Joburg can’t seem to get enough of Absinthè! After completely selling out in November and with many people having to be turned away disappointed, this classic acoustic duo will be back for an additional night, by popular demand, at the quaint Sandton establishment, The Library at The Brazen Head on Thursday, 11 December from 8pm.
Absinthèis the acoustic rock collaboration between two of the country’s finest powerhouse performers; Cito and Paul E Flynn;lead singers of WONDERboom and Sugardrive. They have been teasing the South Africa audiences with very select shows from their group, Absinthè, over the past few years, taking them on an elaborate musical journey.
Absinthè perfectly embodies the spirit of the project with a simple concept. No originals, just covers
Cito and Paul have taken an informal approach to some of their favourite songs from the last century. The duo is a laid-back fusion of two unique and diverse voices accompanied by both on acoustic guitars. Intended to charm those in an unplugged environment, Absinthè has entertained music lovers with an awesome show of great alternative classics to contemporary favourites.
Through jamming together, Cito and Paul found that they had similar taste in music. They thought it’d be a unique concept to keep them busy and having fun interpreting mutually admired songs by their great legendary influences such as Joy Division, the Verve, Pixies, Placebo, House of Love, Coldplay, Depeche Mode, Johnny Cash, The Mission and many others. Cito and Paul have chosen this format to pay tribute to a way of life, and some great music, with their own unique signature.
Taken from their Double CD debut album “A Rendezvous at Nirvana”, 2012 saw the group release their long-awaited Music Video for the Joy Division hit, “Love Will Tear Us Apart” to a great response and culminated in an MK Award Nomination last year.
Says Cito, “Paul and I were overwhelmed by the great response for our first night at jam-packed The Library, especially not being allowed off the stage at the end on our first evening, we will most definitely be pulling out all the stops for this upcoming gig.”
Cito continued; “It’s my last public performance for the year with my various music projects, so I look forward to a rocking party to round up a great 2014!
Should the patrons wish to, The Library also has an extensive a-la-carte menu for guests to enjoy a meal along with the inclusion of this beguiling music experience, thus ensuring it will be an evening not easily forgotten by those in attendance.
Absinthè will be performing on Thursday 11 December at The Library at The Brazen Head in Sandton.
Venue: The Library at The Brazen Head; Corner Linden Street and Ann Crescent, Strathavon, Sandton
Cover Charge : R50 payable at the door
Doors open at 7pm with Absinthe kicking their performance off at 8pm.
(Delicious a-la-carte Dinner menu available for those patrons wishing to eat)
Advanced bookings are essential as its expected this evening will sell out ahead of time, as did the first one. Bookings are to be made with The Library at The Brazen Head directly by calling 011 783 6122.
Multitudes of Chefs, Students and Foodies across South Africa and other parts of the world were on the edge of their seats on Sunday 16 November ’14 as the 2014 Eat Out Mercedes-Benz Restaurant Awards was held in Cape Town. Finally the Eat Out Top 10 has been announced! Without further ado, here are this year’s winners, along with comments from the panel of judges.
Local and international food lovers alike flock to this gem, often after a month-long wait to get a table – and what an exceptional meal awaits them. It’s no surprise that this celebrated eatery by chef Luke Dale-Roberts, the very deserving third time winner of Restaurant of the Year, is now featured on the list of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants.
“Luke is a genius chef who excites and challenges the palates of his diners through flavour, ingredients, innovation and attitude. Every year it gets better and better.” – Abigail Donnelly “Luke’s cooking feels almost effortless, even when you know it’s anything but.” – Kate Wilson
Although there’s outstanding technique and presentation on show here, chef David Higgs’s produce-driven menu is all about allowing individual ingredients to shine, and giving diners a fine time. It’s not wacky or concept-driven – it’s delicious food taken to a new level.
“Interesting ingredients, expert techniques and beautiful plating make this an unforgettable meal.” – Andy Fenner “There’s great flavour here; an excellent experience all round.” – Reuben Riffel “Quite simply, some of the best food and service on the continent.” – Arnold Tanzer
So much of what chef Margot Janse does defies description, but one thing is certain: she’s pushing the envelope in showcasing unique South African flavours. This is culinary storytelling at its best. The African surprise menu is a playful, innovative feast of visual surprises.
“Margot is at the top of her game and is clearly having a lot of fun.” – Reuben Riffel “Consistently genius food dazzles and thrills with a magical element of surprise.” – Abigail Donnelly
Chantel Dartnall, our 2014 San Pellegrino Chef of the Year, reigns supreme at this flamboyant restaurant. Inspired by her travels and showcasing a strong botanical theme, the menu reads like a playful, floral ode to the senses.
“Amazing attention to detail, radical technique on display, and surely some of the most beautiful plating in South Africa.” – Andy Fenner
Chef George Jardine’s seasonal menu captivates with outstanding flavours, textures and techniques. Sensitively sourced ingredients are prepared with complete confidence, and the end result is food that is unpretentious but delicious and beautiful to behold.
“This is easy-going fine dining at its best.” – Arnold Tanzer “George has a wonderful aesthetic all of his own. It’s less about the pomp, more about creating the perfect mouthful.” – Kate Wilson “One of the most exciting menus I’ve seen this year.” – Andy Fenner
There’s no doubt about it, chef Bertus Basson is leading the pack when it comes to cooking South African heritage food. He’s putting traditional ingredients and techniques back on the plate. His focus on fresh, natural flavours, use of top-quality produce and precise technique results in intense, delicious dishes.
“This is brave, simple, vibrant food with masses of flavour and personality.” – Abigail Donnelly “Delicious, accessible dining.” – Arnold Tanzer.
Everything you’ve heard about this restaurant is true: the service is excellent, the space captivating and the attention to detail unparalleled. From the magical bread course of mini Guinness loaves and goat’s butter to petits fours at meal’s end, it’s an enchanting experience.
“This is exciting food cooked with confidence, often leading to moments of awed silence.” – Abigail Donnelly “ A journey of art, flavour and texture.” – Reuben Riffel
Marthinus Ferreira is an extremely passionate chef who’s worked with the likes of Heston Blumenthal – and it shows. This is a man striving for constant improvement, and his contemporary menu with hints of bistro classics offers a feast of note.
“Marthinus’s food is both precise and hearty, with big flavours and delicious combinations.” – Kate Wilson “This chef’s sincerity, passion and commitment are very inspiring.” – Abigail Donnelly “Truly, Marthinus is cooking up a storm in the City of Gold.” – Arnold Tanzer
Eric Bullpit’s food has always been technically sound (as diners at his former establishment The Roundhouse would know) but now he’s cooking with more confidence, demonstrating fantastic balance of flavours. Dishes are bursting with flavour and show a clear and uncluttered focus on the core ingredient.
“Eric’s food is honest and simple, with an innate sense of purity.” – Abigail Donnelly “Dishes impress with deep, intense flavours and a nice surprise here and there.” – Reuben Riffel
Michael Broughton uses top quality produce and winning flavour combinations, and puts his own touch on the classics. Plating is gorgeously uncluttered and every dish shows a mastery of technique. The portions are generous and the flavours wonderfully layered, leading to a marvelous, memorable experience.
“Michael’s love for depth of flavour and sauces shines through.” – Arnold Tanzer “Simply superb. If I could eat here every week, I would.” – Kate Wilson “There’s a very clear direction to Michael’s cooking: classic dishes interpreted in various ways, just this side of cheeky.” – Andy Fenner
The Fireman’s Ball has come a long way since its humble beginnings back in 2007 and has officially become the biggest proudly gay party in Jozi – and this year it’s bigger than ever.
The party has seen some of the biggest local and international acts taking the stage and has become synonymous with the local gay market as the event of the year of the year. This year, after an incredibly successful party last year, the Fireman’s Ball will be hosted at Sandton’s trendiest club, The Sands, which will be enlarged to ensure the party is as epic as ever. The venue will see two dance floors, a fantastic sound and lighting display and five-star service.
This year, international gay icon, porn star and DJ, Pierre Fitch, will be hitting the decks. Pierre has been dominating the international gay space for over 15 years and has made a big name for himself.
Pierre has always been a fan of music and decided to pursue this hobby professionally. Therefore, Pierre has gone through extensive training with experts from the industry, spending the past two years learning all technical aspects of becoming a DJ. Pierre will be bringing some of the best music, production and sound to his performance which promises to be something spectacular.
“I can’t wait to come and experience all that South Africa has to offer,” Pierre told us. “The Fireman’s Ball seems like a load of fun and I’m so excited to be a part of this year’s event. I am looking forward to meeting my South African fans as well!”
Pierre will be joined by some of the best local DJs ensuring one of the most star-studded parties of the year. The line-up includes Anele (94.7), Catherine Grenfell (5FM), Alex Caige (94.7), Mika Stefano, Vic Naidoo (5FM), Stuart Hillary (Therapy), DJ Sam, Dizzy and the winner of the Fireman’s Ball GAY DJ Search competition.
As always, the Fireman’s Ball has always been known to deliver the best VIP experience and this year is no different. For a reasonable R220, each VIP party-goer will receive the following:
Access to the VIP balcony overlooking the main dance floor
Our famous “Fire Starter” welcome drink
Delicious canapés
The sexiest waiters around
As a proud sponsor of the 2014 Fireman’s Ball, Manhunt is offering unlimited access to their site for a full week. Simply use the promotional code ‘FIREMANSBALL’ to unlock the magic.
Event Details
Date: Friday, 28 November 2014
Venue: The Sands, 58 Wierda Road East, Sandton.
Time: 20h30
Tickets:
General Access: Early Bird (Available until 10 November 2014) – R80
Pre-Sale – R100
Door – R120 (If Available)
VIP: R220 (Presale only)
Dynamic duo Jonathan Boyton-Lee and Bonang Matheba
South African designer to the stars Gert-Johan Coetzee has partnered with Magnum Joburg to add even more glamour to the store, which opened at The Zone in Rosebank on 1 November. Coetzee, a multiple award-winning fashion designer who has dressed everyone from international stars Kelly Rowland, Kourtney Kardashian and Kristen Cavallari, to a host of glamorous locals including Lira, Joelle Kayembe, Jay Anstey, Cindy Nell, Basetsane Khumalo, Shashi Naidoo and Louise Carver, dressed Bonang Matheba when she co-presented the official Magnum Joburg opening event on 29 October with Jonathan Boynton-Lee.
Jonathan Boytnon-Lee with Bonang on the Magnum red carpet
Having already wowed New York, Melbourne, Amsterdam, Paris and Istanbul, the Magnum Pleasure Store opened in Johannesburg for 8 weeks on 1 November, and gives you the chance to customise your own Magnum and share the glamour of a quarter century of pleasure with fashion shows, jewellery displays and VIP events hosted by the country’s hottest celebrities.
In keeping with the glamour of Magnum Joburg, Gert-Johan Coetzee promised to deliver a truly special creation for Bonang. “Magnum is all about indulgence and was my inspiration for Bonang’s gown,” he said. “I planned a dress that literally dripped in luxury”.
Fashion designer Gert-Johan Coetzee on the Magnum Red Carpet
At only 26, Gert-Johan is one of SA’s most loved, well-known and respected fashion designers. His red-carpet couture is worn by celebs on TV shows and at all SA’s major events from the SAMAs, J&B Met and MTV Africa Music Awards, to the You Spectacular and Miss World. He has shown at international Fashion Weeks in Canada, Angola and Nigeria and has a growing following in Africa.
Bonang designing her own very own Magnum
There are also a host of other surprise pop-up experiences planned at Magnum Joburg – and the only way to get exclusive access is to stay engaged on facebook.com/MagnumSouthAfrica and keep your eyes peeled in the press! You can also follow @MagnumSA on Twitter and share the pleasure via #MakeMyMagnumSA.
Join Magnum and celebrate 25 years of pleasure your own way, by visiting Magnum Joburg at The Zone in Rosebank until 8pm every day (Sundays til 5pm) from 1 November. The Make My Magnum experience costs R40, which includes your choice of 3 premium toppings.
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iPhone 6 fever swept through Mzansi like a hurricane as local celebrities and fans alike arrived at Vodacom World in Midrand, ahead of the highly anticipated launch of Apple’s latest creations. The iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus, which went on sale on Friday, 24th October 2014 at 12:00am, convinced hundreds of enthusiasts to leave their cosy beds behind and descend on Vodacom World to get their hands on these highly sought after gadgets. The crowds obviously included Mzansi’s top trendsetting personalities who refused to be outdone by their fans and had to be the first to purchase the new phones.
MTV VJ Nomuzi Mabena and Lynn Jasmin MartinStrictly Come Dancing Winner Jonathan Boyton LeeV-Entertainment VJ Denise Zimba and The Link’s Lerato Kganyago
“iPhone launches are always a big deal in the smartphone world and this year is no exception. It was truly amazing to see the Joburg “It Crew” embracing the midnight launch and popping into Vodacom World to get their devices first,” said Vodacom’s Managing Executive for Retail Operations, Sam Botha.
Terry Pheto, Allegro Dinkwanyane and Mampho BresciaSelfie Queens 5FM Poppy Ntshongwana and Leading Lady Terry Pheto
To add to the dazzle, Vodacom also enlisted Mzansi’s sought after DJ Fresh as well as comedians Goliath and Goliath, and Tats Nkonzo to entertain and keep the hundreds of iPhone devotees who had been queuing for hours tapping.
The Big Dawg in Action
“I have personally been a huge fan of the iPhone and when I realised that Vodacom was launching it at midnight I had to be one of the first people to get my hands on it, it’s my obsession,” said Long Walk to Freedom Actress, Terry Pheto. “I’m an Apple lover at heart, and when I heard of the iPhone 6 launch at Vodacom, I traded my pajamas for my stilettos. A girl’s gotta do what a girl’s gotta do for epic selfies”, added Roxy Burger.
The lovely Lerato Kganyago waiting in line for the sexy smartphoneThe gorgeous Terry Pheto in the queue to get her hands on SA’s latest phenomenonThe Hunky Jonathan Boynton LeeThe lovely Poppy Ntshongwana and Pearl Moodie after a night of tech shoppingWhat’s a party with no selfie RIGHT
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