Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr to be staged by The Young Performers’ Project at the Milkwood Theatre, Danville: 2 – 12 April 2026.

Fishy Fable: Inspired by Hans Christian Andersens’ beloved fairy tale, and based on the classic animated Disney movie, The Little Mermaid Jr stage musical is The Young Performer’s Project’s first show of 2026, coming to The Milkwood Theatre in Durban North over the Easter holidays from 2 – 12 April 2026.

BUY TICKETS HERE

Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr is a hauntingly beautiful love story for the ages – perfect for the youthful 50 strong cast. This time around, the show features 30 senior performers, and 21 junior performers.

The Little Mermaid Jr is directed by Daisy Spencer, with choreography by Evashnee Pillay, music direction by Des Govender, sound design by Ant Govender, set and prop design by Nicolene Steyn and fabulous under the sea inspired costumes by Kathy Singery.

The cast includes Ariel played by Chloe Marot from St. Mary’s DSG (last seen in Shrek and Annie); Sebastian is Khethukuthula Ngcobo (I.S.P.A) and Flounder is played by Azania Mavimbela (Crawford North Coast).

In a heartwarming full circle moment, Azania’s mother Sindi, a current drama teacher, reflected on her own experience as a participant in YPP’s 2009 production of Big River, directed by Themi Venturas. Her daughter Azania, who entered the project seventeen years later as a Junior performer in A Fairytale Christmas Carol, is a testament to the organization’s lasting influence. This poignant connection also highlights the profound impact of YPP’s programmes on the lives of its alumni who are giving back to their communities as arts educators.

Inspired by Hans Christian Andersens’ beloved fairy tale, and based on the classic animated Disney movie, The Little Mermaid Jr tells of a mermaid who dreams of the world above the sea and gives up her voice to find true love.

Ariel, King Triton’s youngest daughter, wishes to pursue the human Prince Eric in the world above, bargaining with the evil sea witch, Ursula, to trade her tail for legs. But the bargain is not what it seems, and Ariel needs the help of her colourful friends, Flounder the fish, Scuttle the seagull and Sebastian the crab to restore order under the sea.

Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr offers a fantastic creative opportunity for rich costumes and sets, as well as the chance to perform some of the best-known songs from the past 30 years. Songs include: “Under the Sea“; “Kiss the Girl“; and “Part of Your World“.

Written by Doug Wright, with music by eight-time Academy Award winner, Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater.

Tickets are through Webtickets here. Their first show is a special Relaxed Performance on Thursday 2 April at 2.30 where theatre etiquette guidelines are relaxed and the performance is consciously calmed, where the auditorium lights are dimmed, but not dark and the audience meet the characters ahead of time. This Relaxed Performance is ideal for audience members with sensory sensitivities. For all performances, audiences are welcome to dress up as the cast.

Good to Know:

• Tickets: Webtickets -> click here to buy
• Their first show is a special Relaxed performance on Thursday 2 April at 2.30
• Scholars and pensioners 10% off any seats throughout.
• The show runs at 65 minutes – no interval
• Audiences can meet the stage characters after the show

BUY TICKETS HERE

Familie Fest 2026 Brings Live Music and Family Fun to Hillcrest

Everything You Need to Know About Familie Fest 2026

Familie Fest arrives in Hillcrest for a full weekend of live music, family-friendly entertainment and relaxed festival energy, taking place on Friday 29 and Saturday 30 May 2026 at NU Driving Range.

Designed as an all-ages outdoor music festival, Familie Fest brings together South African artists, open space, activities for kids and adults, and a format that allows families and friend groups to spend the entire day together without feeling rushed.

Event Details

Date: Friday 29 & Saturday 30 May 2026
Venue: NU Driving Range Fields, Hillcrest
Time: From 10am daily
Age Restriction: All ages
Bar Area: Over 18s only

Tickets available via:
• Familie Fest Website
• Webtickets
• Utickets

Ticket Pricing

• Kids under 4: Free
• Kids 4–12: From R129
• Teens 13–17: From R145
• Adults: From R199 to R245

Group Ticket Specials

• Buy 5 tickets, get 1 free: R1,250
• Buy 9 tickets, get 1 free:  R2,100

Group tickets are limited and valid for adults or kids.

Camping add-ons are available separately and include access to a secure camp zone with toilets, showers, lighting and security.

Line-up (More to Be Announced)

The initial line-up includes a mix of established and popular South African acts:

• Francois van Coke
• Kurt Darren
• Van Pletzen
• Veranda Panda
• Appel

Friday features acoustic-focused sessions, while Saturday hosts the main acts. Additional artists will be announced closer to the event.

What to Expect

Familie Fest is structured as a full-day festival rather than an evening-only concert, with gates opening at 10am and activities running throughout the day and into the evening.

Across the festival grounds, attendees can expect:
• Live music performances
• A dedicated kids zone
• Arts and crafts activities
• Food and drink vendors
• Potjie competitions
• Access to the driving range
• Putt putt, go-karts and paintball
• Optional secure camping facilities

The layout allows families to spread out, relax and move between music, activities and rest areas at their own pace.

What You Can and Can’t Bring

Allowed:
Umbrellas, camp chairs, blankets, gazebos, bags, towels, baby gear.

Not Allowed:
Cooler boxes, outside food and drink, weapons, fireworks, sound systems, pets, sports or play equipment, bikes or braais.

Camp Zone Only:
Cooler boxes, food and drink, and braais are permitted within the designated camping area.

Why Familie Fest Works

Familie Fest positions itself as a genuinely inclusive festival, catering to families with young children, teens, and adults who want to enjoy live music without the pressure of a late-night-only format. With space to move, activities beyond the main stage, and a line-up that appeals across age groups, it offers a different kind of festival experience for the KZN calendar.

For families looking to introduce kids to live music, groups planning a social weekend, or anyone wanting an outdoor festival that runs at a comfortable pace, Familie Fest ticks all the right boxes.

Midlands Meander Association Celebrates 40 Years of Craft, Cuisine and Countryside Founded in 1985, the landmark arts-and-crafts route marks four decades of growth and looks to a digital future.

This year the Midlands Meander Association proudly celebrates its 40th anniversary. What began in 1985 as a small, creative collaboration of local potters, weavers and artists, has grown into one of South Africa’s best-known artisan tourism routes — a thriving network of accommodation, studios, eateries and attractions that showcases the unique culture and hospitality of the KZN Midlands.

The Meander’s origin story is simple. In 1985 a handful of creatives met at Caversham Mill and decided to work together, opening their studios to the public as a collective way to increase visibility and sales. That grassroots idea expanded steadily; the route now spans roughly 80 kilometres and includes well over 100 member businesses offering a rich tapestry of experiences—from artisanal handmade crafts and cozy country kitchens to world-class accommodation, enchanting wedding venues, and exceptional conferencing facilities.

Over four decades the Midlands Meander has become synonymous with warm hospitality, local craftsmanship, culinary creativity and outdoor adventure. The Association continues to play a central role in promoting the Midlands as a cultural and tourism destination. As it celebrates 40 years, the Meander is not only honouring its heritage but also investing in the future — expanding member services, promoting sustainable tourism, and embracing digital platforms to make the route easier to explore for both domestic and international visitors.

This year the Association is rolling out new digital initiatives designed to support members and connect visitors with experiences across the route. These moves reflect the organisation’s ongoing strategy to create a networking community, modernise marketing, increase bookings for small businesses and grow exposure for members while preserving the authentic, local character that makes the Meander special.

“From a handful of studios to a beloved tourism route, the Midlands Meander is a testament to creative collaboration and community,” said a Midlands Meander spokesperson. “As we celebrate 40 years, we’re thankful to the members, artists, hoteliers and visitors who have shaped the Meander. We’re excited about our digital offerings and our plans to continue growing in ways that benefit local businesses and visitors alike.”

The Association will mark the anniversary with a series of promotional campaigns throughout the year.

For more information:
visit: www.midlandsmeander.co.za
contact: info@midlandsmeander.co.za / +27 (0)33 330 8195 or +27 (0)69 725 1916
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