Shebeen shooting, MC fiasco all in day's work
WHAT a chaotic weekend it was for your sassy Skinnerbek, from sashaying around at a beauty pageant to dodging bullets at one of the city's popular township hangouts.
And no, this is not a scene from one of those misdirected Mzantsi movies.
On Saturday I waltzed over to Mr and Miss NMMU Freshette, which was held at the university's indoor sport centre.
The show started three hours late because dancer and actress Khabonina Qhubeka, the MC for the evening, was apparently busy with her makeup. Not a family emergency, a delayed flight or a traffic snarl-up, but makeup, people.
I felt quite sorry for the judges, who were at the venue on time.
I shed a tear when SRC members delivered a moving message dedicated to the abducted Nigerian schoolgirls now at the centre of the #BringBackOurGirls campaign.
The night went smoothly and the guys and gals looked sizzling hot. But I didn't stick around for the after-party as the venue was just too cold for my old bones.
On Sunday I put on my All Star sneakers and headed to KwaGqalane in Zwide for a hip-hop session with DJ Laz-Ola on the ones and twos. The place is always packed, making it difficult to move.
The music was good, even though some people decided to chill in their cars. But there were also a few inconsiderate drivers who wanted to "prove" their driving skills.
Because I was in the mood for a Kasi Jol, I decided to head to a safer place – at least that's what I thought.
My choice? KwaNgqoko in New Brighton, as I'd heard there was an ANC victory celebration going on. The MVP DJ's provided great music that kept the crowd on the dance floor. The mood was jolly and we were all dancing the night away without a care in the world.
But the pawpaw struck the proverbial fan after midnight when, horror of horrors, one of the patrons was shot seven times. It was sheer chaos as people ran for cover; those who were drunk immediately became sober.
When everything finally settled down that was my cue to leave.
What a traumatic night it was – I pity the owner, Zonwabele Solwandle, who had to be woken up from his sleep to come and calm his shocked patrons.
At least the shooting didn't happen inside the tavern, which would have been so much worse.
Stay safe until next week and remember, bullet proof vests come in cool shades nowadays.
- Skinnerbek
