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Smoking Dragon New Year’s Eve Magic

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With panoramic views of the Drakensberg mountains as our backdrop, tents of all colour, shapes, and sizes started to spring up in the early morning air. The 29th December 2016 brought with it the 6th year of Smoking Dragon Festival to Amphitheatre Backpackers Lodge. The people started to slowly filter onto the grounds with eager helpers wheeling in their equipment using wheelbarrows. As excitement and laughter built, so did the anticipation of a great 3 days filled with some of the best musical acts! With the 5 music areas including the Ripple Zone, The Pink Tent, the Fringe Stage, the Church Electric Jungle, and the Main Stage, one was spoilt for choice this year!

The first day kicked off with the Fringe Stage artists easing us into some great music. Food stalls set up and Howler cards loaded, people set to getting their drinks and eating in the food market area. The evening brought us the Smoking Divas lineup which included Nonku Phiri, Push Push, Ann Jangles and so many more! The Electric Jungle in collaboration with CHERCH pulled the crowd in with unparalleled beats by talented DJs.

The days were started with Yoga guided by a seasoned yogi, and music was lead by Raggae band, Rusman Spice at the Fringe. The clues parted and the Ripple Zone filled up with everyone enjoying the cool waters at the dam, and the shade at the Pink Tent. The grounds filled with people as they hiked different trails around Amphitheatre Backpackers Lodge, absorbing the natural beauty. The Muffin hit the Ripple stage with their Afropop sound and thick soulful harmonies. The audiences meandered between the Fringe and Ripple stages through they day as they watched their favourite artists performing. Seasoned DJ and Kaya FM radio host, Nicky B, was an instant hit with the crowd as they prepared for the evening’s lineup.

The heart of Smoking Dragon Festival is to build a community of loving, embracing humans, and the acts who’d performed at this year’s festival embodied just that. BCUC hit the Main Stage and transported us to a new word of sound! Their authentic African inspired music combined with their energy, was absorbed by the crowd from the very first note played. Headlining act, The Kiffness, unified with music and dance with their lighted hearted yet impactful music. The Electric Jungle also had a world class set of DJs including Kid Fonque, Yanoss, and Cards on Spokes.

As they ushered in the New Year, the artists chosen brought the right amount of excitement to the table. The festival was moving full-speed ahead into 2017 with Crimson House Blues and their gypsy-rock tunes, Sun Xa Experiment and their afro-fusion vibe, and Mr Cat and the Jackal fun-funky tracks. Stelth Ulvang of the Lumineers set the evening’s pace at the Ripple Zone as the crowd watched the sun slowly set behind the mountains. Kitted with a piano, standing double bass, violin, drums, and a special feature of his much-loved accordion, the audience was wooed by his songs with relatable stories.

The Rudimentals with Jamaican, American, Zimbabwean and South African artists set the Main Stage on fire! Their Ska blend music got every bouncing bouncing along. Todo Mundo followed accompanied by their combination of Colombian, Korean, American, Spain, and Namibia! Together they brought us pure magic and light – reminding us that music can transcend any language barrier!

The New Year had to be brought in with magic. An immaculate wooden sculpture of a dragon was built on the empty field beside the Main Stage. The countdown had begun with Sublime Tribute band on the Main Stage, and electricity filled the air as a new dawn was eminent. The clock struck 12am and the dragon was set alight. Beautiful flames of pink, blue, and green engulfed the structure, and the worries of 2016 burnt along with it!

With the fire still smouldering in the morning light, people left elated and filled with hope that this new year will bring!

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Art

Bluey’s Big Play Coming to South Africa

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Wackadoo! Bluey, Bingo, Mum and Dad are coming to South Africa in the 2025 winter school holidays! For the first time ever, the hit theatre production Bluey’s Big Play The Stage Show makes its African debut at Artscape, Cape Town on Thursday, 26 June, running until Sunday, 06 July 2025. The show then moves to The Teatro at Montecasino, Johannesburg from Wednesday, 09 July to Sunday, 20 July. Tickets are on sale now at www.showtime.co.za and www.ticketmaster.co.za.

Bluey’s Big Play is a theatrical adaptation of the BAFTA and Emmy® Award-winning animated children’s television series produced by Ludo Studio. Now families in South Africa can experience the joy of seeing Bluey, Bingo, Mum and Dad in their first ever theatre show, featuring brilliantly created puppets, iconic sets, live actors and all-new music – it’s Bluey like you’ve never seen it before, in real life and on stage.

The popularity of Bluey’s Big Play knows no bounds, touring internationally across Australia, UK and Ireland, Singapore, Abu Dhabi, Europe and North America. Kiddo Adventures gives Bluey’s Big Play five stars while claiming it’s “A magical theatrical experience for fans of all ages” while Time Out says, This live adventure for fanatically beloved Australian hound Bluey is as authentic as it comes”. The Guardian best sums up the show by saying “Puppy puppets’ sweet show sets tails wagging.

Bluey’s Big Play follows Bluey and her family through a full day from sunrise through to bedtime. When Dad feels like a little bit of Sunday afternoon time out, Bluey and Bingo have other plans! Join them as they pull out all of the games and cleverness at their disposal to get Dad off that bean bag.

Bluey’s Big Play is an original story from creator Joe Brumm, with bespoke music from Bluey composer Joff Bush. The audio track forBluey’s Big Play is prerecorded and features original voices from the TV sensation, including the instantly recognisable voices of Dave McCormack and Melanie Zanetti as Dad and Mum. While the larger-than-life puppets are commanded by Bluey’s Big Play’s talented puppeteers, who bring Bluey, Bingo, Mum and Dad to life on stage.

Bluey’s Big Play The Stage Show is presented by BBC Studios and Andrew Kay in association with Windmill Theatre Co and local live entertainment and show promoter, Showtime Management.

Kate O’Connor, Director of Brands and Licensing BBC Studios ANZ, says: “Following the incredible reaction to the live theatre show in North America, UK, Ireland, Singapore, Abu Dhabi, Europe and Australia, we are so excited to bring Bluey’s Big Play The Stage Show to fans in South Africa.”

Bluey’s Big Play has performed to a global audience including sell out seasons across Australia, USA and UK. The response has been extraordinary. We are so excited to now bring Bluey’s Big Play to South African audiences this winter school holidays,” says Andrew Kay, Producer of Bluey’s Big Play.

We’re thrilled to be bringing Bluey’s Big Play The Stage Show to South Africa,” said Tony Feldman of Showtime Management who added: “The response to the show from fans across Australia, North America and Europe has been nothing short of amazing and we can’t wait for families in South Africa to experience all the fun and excitement of having Bluey and her family live on stage.”


The stage show has enjoyed much success around the world, especially in Australia, where it premiered in Bluey’s hometown Brisbane and went on to perform over 500 times across 65 venues, including the Sydney Opera House.  Bluey’s Big Play was nominated for an Olivier Award for Best Family Show in 2024.

Since bursting on to TV screens in Australia in 2018, Bluey has enjoyed a plethora of critical success at home and abroad, winning a 2022 BAFTA Children & Young People Award in the International category, a 2024 Kidscreen Award for Best Animated Series and picking up its consecutive fifth AACTA Best Children’s Programme award to add to an International Emmy and numerous awards for craft and production around the world.

According to Nielsen, Bluey is 2024’s most-watched series globally on Disney+, and the year’s No. 1 most-watched series on streaming to date through November among total viewers in the U.S., with more than 50.5 billion minutes watched[1]. In Australia, the show goes out on ABC where it is #1 kids show, and it is also rated #1 kids show on CBeebies and Disney+ in the UK[2]. In South Africa, Bluey is ranked #1 on Disney Channel, Disney Junior and CBeebies[3].

Tickets for Bluey’s Big Play are available now and can be purchased at www.showtime.co.za or www.ticketmaster.co.za the official, exclusive ticketing agent. Tickets purchased via any other platform will not be honoured.

Each attendee irrespective of age must hold a valid ticket in any price category to Bluey’s Big Play. A strictly limited number of Meet & Greet Packages are available for each show. The Meet & Greet includes a lanyard and the unique opportunity to meet Bluey after the show.  Children are not allowed access without a VIP paid adult.

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For more information visit bluey.tv

Meet and Greet: R500 per ticket

Limited availability. Includes a lanyard and post-show opportunity to meet Bluey.

Children are not allowed access without a M&G paid adult.

Group bookings

20% discount on groups of 21 and more

Wednesday, Thursday, Friday performances only valid for the top two prices.

Contact Jill Somers office hours only, 9am to 5pm, on 079 218 1658 or via showtime.co.za

Shelley
Author: Shelley

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Attractions

Old Mutual Music at the Lake returns with a Mother’s Day celebration featuring Mi Casa and Shekhinah on Sunday 11 May

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Old Mutual Music at the Lake is back for another unforgettable season of music, nature, and community — and the series kicks off in spectacular style with a special Mother’s Day concert featuring South African superstars Mi Casa and Shekhinah on Sunday, 11 May 2025 at the breathtaking Durban Botanic Gardens.

Set against the lush, tranquil backdrop of the Gardens’ iconic Lake area, this signature concert promises an afternoon of soulful sounds, celebration, and family-friendly fun. Guests are encouraged to bring along picnic blankets, camping chairs, and their own food and drinks to enjoy a relaxed open-air experience.

“Old Mutual is proud to support the Music at the Lake series, a celebration of togetherness, local talent, and cultural pride. Our partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to enriching communities and creating shared moments of joy—especially on meaningful days like Mother’s Day. We believe music has the power to connect people, and we are honoured to help provide a platform where families can come together and make lasting memories in the beautiful setting of Durban’s iconic Botanic Gardens,” said Bandile Mngoma, Senior Manager: Sponsorships & Events at Old Mutual.

Renowned for their infectious house grooves and feel-good energy, Mi Casa will light up the stage with hits that have become part of the country’s soundtrack. Joining them is powerhouse vocalist and platinum-selling artist Shekhinah, whose emotive blend of pop and R&B continues to captivate audiences around the world.

This event is part of the beloved Old Mutual Music at the Lake series — a proudly supported initiative by Old Mutual that fuses entertainment with environmental purpose. All proceeds go to the Garden Window Project, an innovative programme driving people and plant development within the Durban Botanic Gardens.

Tickets are selling fast, so secure your spot now via Webtickets here.

Whether you’re treating your mom, spending the day with loved ones, or simply looking for great music in a stunning natural setting, this is the Mother’s Day celebration you won’t want to miss.

Event Details:

Old Mutual Music at the Lake: Mi Casa & Shekhinah
📍 Durban Botanic Gardens – Lake Area
📅 Sunday, 11 May 2025
🕐 Gates open: 1PM | Show starts: 2PM
🎟 Tickets available via Webtickets
🥤 Food and drinks welcome
🪑 Picnic blankets and camping chairs encouraged

Shelley
Author: Shelley

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Events

Supertech Torque Motoring Festival 2025 Sets Records and Ignites KZN’s passion for the most powerful letter in the world- M.

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Easter weekend 2025 saw KwaZulu-Natal roar to life as Supertech Group hosted the third and most exhilarating edition of the Supertech Torque Motoring Festival at Dezzi Raceway. With over 8000 motorsport fans, families and thrill-seekers in attendance across two unforgettable days, this year’s festival has firmly cemented itself as a highlight on the KZN motoring and lifestyle calendar. 

Born from the vision of the largest and award-winning BMW retailer group in KZN, the Supertech Group, Supertech Torque began as a premium car club initiative. Now, just three years later, it has become a celebration of premium automotive culture and motorsport magic, combining the power of M, performance car culture with family fun and unmatched customer experiences. 

From a single-day event in 2022 to a full-blown weekend of premium motoring in 2023, 2025 delivered a record-breaking two-day spectacular that reflects Supertech’s drive to continuously elevate and innovate. This year, the Supertech Torque Motoring Festival was a full sensory experience- a celebration of precision German engineering, exclusive reveals, international motorsport talent and high-octane joy.


Highlights of the festival included: 

  • A new and used car showroom with the latest BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad models, including unique BMW M models in bespoke BMW Individual colours like the BMW M3 Touring in Sao Paulo Yellow and the BMW M4 Convertible in Velvet Orchid Individual to name a few. 
  • The exclusive BMW M Lounge showcasing the latest custom-build, RACE-SPEC BMW M2, presented by none other than Cristiano Verolini, Head of BMW Motorsport in South Africa. 
  • Thrill rides in the latest BMW M3’s, Hot laps and drift experiences with the official BMW Driving Experience team, led by Red Bull Car Park Drift Champion Jim McFarlane. 
  • International Stunt sensation Didi Bizzarro made history by setting not one, but two South African records on two wheels at Dezzi Raceway. 
  • Appearances by local motorsport icons including the electrifying Stacey-Ley May and Kayla, phenomenal young women in motorsport, the smoke king Reece Williams, crowd favourite Preshu Singh and the unstoppable Team sideways. 
  • An official BMW Merchandise and Performance parts pop-up store, BMW Dip Lab brought to you by Supertech Approved Repair Centre showcasing BMW Individual paint colours, and interactive stalls from Ceramic Pro KZN, Rospa Imports (hosting a silent auction on rare and sort-after classic BMW models), One Stop Travel and Tours, Orabi Shell, Old Mutual, Edgars Beauty and A-Line Wheels. 
  • Food courts and a buzzing kids carnival made it a fun-filled day for the whole family. 

The charismatic Vic Pardal amped up the energy as MC across both days, with Saturday drawing a crowd of over 5500 enthusiasts and Sunday welcoming an additional 2500 festival goers- a true testament to the festivals growing popularity. 

Behind this spectacular production was Supertech’s dedicated core team, spearheaded by Managing Director Ubaid Tayob and supported by passionate staff from across the Supertech Group. The months of meticulous planning paid off, ensuring every touchpoint reflected the brand’s premium essence and commitment to delivering memorable customer experiences. 

The Supertech Torque Motoring Festival is not just an event- it’s a movement. It captures the essence of premium, performance car culture and unites passionate drivers and fans from across KZN and the country. From hosting the largest convoys of pure BMW M and M Performance machines to celebrating BMW Durban South’s unmatched hat-trick win as BMW M Retailer of the Year, Supertech is fuelling a new era of love for BMW Motorsport in a new generation. More than just a festival, it’s a bold statement of Supertech’s legacy and future- one that continues to share and elevate the premium automotive and lifestyle experience in KZN.

A big thank you goes out to all the brand partners, with a special thank you to Harry and the team from Gas Magazine, long-time partners to the brand who share our belief that collaboration and the passionate pursuit of excellence in automotive within KZN fuels greatness. 

As for what’s next? If you thought 2025 was big, wait until you see what Supertech Torque has in store for its next chapter!

Supertech Torque Motoring Festival- Where M- Power meets passion, and every experience is built to thrill. 

To keep up to date with the latest from the Supertech Group, follow them online @supertech_group and @supertech_torque

T&C’s apply. E&OE.

All parties agree that no press release shall disclose any confidential or proprietary information, including but not limited to financial details, business plans, or customer data, without the prior written consent of the disclosing party, being the Supertech Group.

Shelley
Author: Shelley

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