Musicians not paid after arts showcase

Struggling Eastern Cape musicians who performed at an arts festival in Port Elizabeth five months ago are still waiting to be paid.

The Mamela Arts Festival was held in September at the Opera House in Central.

The festival, which is the brainchild of the Eastern Cape Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Department, was meant to give artists a platform to showcase their talents. But funding for the September festival was secured from the Nelson Mandela Bay sport, recreation, arts and culture directorate.

Municipal spokesman Mthubanzi Mniki said it was unfortunate the artists had not been paid.

“The process of payment has been delayed. This week the artists will be paid. We would also like to apologise for the delay,” he said.

Port Elizabeth guitarist Themba Jack said he was forced to pay his band out of his own pocket.

“This is so disappointing. That was a memorable gig for me but the lack of payment is frustrating.

“No wonder artists leave Port Elizabeth. I will start legal proceedings if my money is not paid,” he said.

-Yoliswa Sobuwa