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Durbanite Talks Politics in the new Showmax Series: The Girl From St Agnes
The girls from South Africa in The girl from St Agnes
If you haven’t yet watched The Girl from St Agnes from start to finish, then what have you been doing this past week?
Showmax released this 8-part murder mystery series on 30 January and it easily broke the record for the most unique viewers in 24 hours – proving its binge-worthiness and showing how ready the world is for South African English TV. I for one, have been ready for years, and so instead of being actively social last friday night, I stayed at home with my mother and we started and unintentionally finished the entire show.
My overtaxed mother may have been falling asleep on the couch during the opening credits but soon she was resurrected by the shocking plot twists and many of what the TV ad describes as ‘admissions of guilt’. Set at an all-girls’ boarding school in the KZN midlands, schoolgirl Lexi Summerveld (Jane de Wet) falls to her death and the case is dismissed as suicide. But drama teacher Kate Bellard (Nina Milner) remains unconvinced and furthers the investigation herself, exposing secrets, lifting veils and ultimately showing that the school and all who attend are not what she (and we) once thought. Transfixing and professional, I was blown away by this show and my poor friends will vouch for how it’s all I’ve been talking about lately.
Having lived in California this past year, I was ready to give up on launching a career in my own beautiful country. But TGFSA has truly restored my hope in South African film and media and more specifically, the hope for our female writers, producers and directors. The team that created, filmed and funded the show is an all-female collaboration which is rare, even for Hollywood. Not only are the writers, directors and producers all women, but the story focuses more on the lives and struggles of the South African female experience too. It’s the men and the schoolboys who are villainous and destructive while the girls are the victims who bear the brunt of their perverted or unfaithful husbands, abusive boyfriends, neglective fathers, or disappointing sons.
The notorious “boys will be boys” line is referenced at least twice, hinting at its persistent circulation in patriarchal South Africa. But even as each suspect (and there are many) that Kate suspects is a male, each also becomes a red herring, making the victim, the murderer and the detective an all-female game too. Perhaps what this is saying is that we women need to work together and support each other more. And perhaps we need to be more courageous, less trustful and dependent, and own our individual narratives just like S.A. men have the learned confidence to do.
What I also really enjoyed is the political landscape that the show doesn’t choose to ignore. Lines like “you people”, “colonialists”, and allusions to farm burning, land stealing and robberies pinpoint the present South African experience and highlight the racial tension that is still very much alive today; even amongst the integrated and somewhat progressive schoolgirls at St Agnes. This exposes the backlash and the influence our parents’ generation still has on us, however the small progress we’ve made so far is also shown by the (albeit few) mixed friendships and relationships, peace treaties and apologies, as well as a well-mixed cast even if *sigh* the main characters are still mostly white.
I guess The Girl from St Agnes should be regarded as a snapshot of present progression and should not be expected to transcend all boundaries at once – as we still have a long way to go – but rather we should choose to focus on the pride of making it this far in South African English television and in non-conservative material at that. Sure, it’s at first unsettling to hear our accent on the screen, and maybe even more so when it’s talking rape and murder and suicide (and and and). But after a while it hits that this is our reality. We are no longer watching the far-fetched American world with its foreign accent, but instead we are consuming our own unique demeanor and personally relatable experiences. As an ex-all girls’ catholic school girl myself, I feel united in my own story and no longer feel the ‘fomo’ of American High School as intensely as I used to.
I’m so excited for the future of South African TV and I hope I get the chance to join in someday, too. And you, fellow unenthused and disillusioned writer/actor/director/any form of creative… you should be too.
Written by Candice Buckle
Author: Durbanite
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
Author: Shelley
Attractions
Old Mutual Music at the Lake returns with a Mother’s Day celebration featuring Mi Casa and Shekhinah on Sunday 11 May
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
Author: Shelley
Attractions
Splashy Fen 2025: An Inspiring Long Weekend of Music, Magic, and Memories in the Drakensberg
Splashy Fen Music Festival has officially wrapped, and by all accounts, the 2025 edition was the most magical one yet. From the moment the gates opened on Thursday, 17 April to the last note played on Sunday night, 8,000 festival-goers soaked up four glorious days of sunshine, music, and connection in the heart of the Southern Drakensberg.
After a few days of pre-festival rain, the weather turned just in time to welcome fans to South Africa’s friendliest music festival. The sunshine held strong throughout the weekend, setting the tone for what would become an unforgettable Easter celebration filled with laughter, dancing, and community.
A SOLD-OUT FESTIVAL FROM DAY ONE
By Thursday evening, over 5,500 happy campers had already made their way into the scenic Splashy Fen farm, with the festival officially reaching full capacity the day before the gates even opened. The 2025 edition was officially opened by Cllr. T.N. Jojozi, Deputy Mayor of the Harry Gwala District Municipality, who welcomed guests on behalf of the Harry Gwala Development Agency.
Thursday night kicked off with the first wave of live performances and set the tone for the weekend.
From there, the lineup only got hotter.
DAYS OF MUSIC AND MAGIC
Friday and Saturday were packed with showstopping performances across the multiple stages. Local heroes like Ard Matthews, Hot Water, Veranda Panda, and Prime Circle brought the heat, while the Main Stage turned electric with international artists including the UK’s Youngr, a surprise performance from Casey Lowery, Ireland’s Darren Kiely, and Canada’s Neon Dreams.
Mafikizolo delivered a legendary Saturday night set that brought thousands to their feet, and GoodLuck closed out the evening with a high-energy performance that had the whole crowd bouncing.
Away from the stages, festival-goers enjoyed the full Splashy experience: sunrise yoga, trail runs, live art, craft workshops, and plenty of family-friendly fun. The popular Kids Zone was buzzing with activity, and the Saturday afternoon Splashy Parade was a visual feast of stilt-walkers, dragons, fire breathers, and whimsical characters.
At the Corona River Stage, guests kicked back in the sun to chilled tunes by the water, while a bustling craft market and food court offered up everything from gourmet bites to handmade treasures.
A SUNDAY TO REMEMBER
Easter Sunday was pure joy. The day began with a peaceful morning service hosted by Red Frogs SA at the tranquil Treehouse Stage, followed by a fun-filled Easter egg hunt for the little ones—complete with games, giggles, and surprise eggs from the Easter Bunny herself.
Music lovers made their way to the Acoustic Stage for the much-loved Legends of the Fen showcase. Featuring iconic acts like Cinema, Perez, and more, the session reminded everyone why Splashy Fen holds such a special place in South Africa’s music history.
As the sun dipped behind the Drakensberg mountains, the Main Stage roared to life for one final night of performances, closing out the weekend with soaring vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and thunderous applause.
“Our legs are sore, our voices are gone, but our hearts? FULL,” read a Monday morning post from Splashy Fen’s official social media page. “Shoutout to every artist who brought the fire at Main Stage last night, and every fan who screamed every word. What a way to end #Splashy2025!”
THE BEST ONE YET
With four full days of world-class music, family-friendly fun, and community connection in one of the most beautiful festival locations in the world, Splashy Fen 2025 has earned its title as the best one yet.
For more information and to stay up to date on 2026 tickets and artist announcements, visit www.splashyfen.co.za or follow @splashyfenfest on Instagram and Facebook.
Author: Shelley
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