“This year’s lineup is tight and concentrates on showcasing more local and national talent; an answer to the suggestions of both audiences and the artists themselves,” says programme director Will Wallace. “Along with Pinkie Mtshali, our development and mentoring director, we will also insert a slot for a blues artist or band that has proved them during the mentorship programme run before the festival, development of this genre amongst local musicians being one of our key strategies as always,” Wallace adds.
“Moving from Zack’s about two years ago came about because the growth of the event called for consideration of a bigger venue. Whilst the alternative venue offered much, the consensus was that the vibe and the unique watery ambiance of the bay around Zack’s, Wilson’s Wharf, not to mention the safe parking along with easy access from most parts of Durban was what the blues fans loved and so we are bringing the festival back to the venue this year.”
Tanya van Agthoven Marais, a co-director of the event says: “It will simply mean blues fans must not be ‘durbanlethargic’ and purchase their tickets early, as the venue is limited and unreserved seating is also on a first come, first serve basis.”
“The show goes on and we look forward to the continued success of this well-known Durban event,” comments festival director Thando Nyameni. Festival die-hards will know the drill at this venue where seating is shared by all; food can be ordered from Zack’s or any of the other participating venues who share the deck on the nights, a cash bar facility is open to all and the nightly lineup will commence around 7pm until about11pm nightly.
Keep an ear and eye out for updated news on www.durbanbluesfestival.co.za, Facebook’s Friends of the Durban International Blues Festival and Durban International Blues Festival pages, Instagram, and other online information mediums.
