All roads lead to G'town for 'best ever' arts fest

THE biggest annual celebration of the arts in Africa kicks off in Grahamstown tonight, and organisers have promised it will be the strongest programme ever witnessed.

Thousands of music, performance art, dance, film and theatre lovers are expected to descend on the city of saints from tomorrow for the 11-day National Arts Festival which is celebrating its 40th year.

The programme includes drama, dance, physical theatre, comedy, opera, music, jazz, visual art exhibitions, film, student theatre, street theatre, lectures, a craft fair, workshops, tours and a children's arts festival.

The event will start with a glittering opening ceremony tonight, with guests including Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa, Eastern Cape premier Phumulo Masualle and Grahamstown mayor Zamuxolo Peter expected to attend. - Thulani Gqirana