Voices from the festival front line

Artists and creatives talk about the vital role of festivals in training, networking and sustaining careers in SA

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Responding to a question about the impact of festivals on the arts and people's careers, several directors, actors, designers, promoters and theatre makers answered.

Bianca Flanders Balie

Award-winning actress, director, screenwriter and children's author

"Festivals have supported and invested in me, allowing me the opportunity to grow as a creative, and creating the environment and opportunity to direct and produce, as well as continue acting.

"They pretty much form a very large part of the theatre industry. Without them, many writers and directors wouldn't have the opportunity to create new work. I'm ready to march. Where and when, everyone?

"I'm continuously shocked and outraged at the lack of respect and knowledge of how vital the arts is, and has been, to this country."

Tebogo Artslave

Digital creator

"Festivals are not self-serving at all; they provide platforms that facilitate significant cultural exchange and serve as a catalyst for collaborative work. My career and current job are a direct result of festivals, where I have met numerous creatives and engaged in brainstorming sessions.

"The National Arts Festival in Makhanda, in particular, has been instrumental in my growth, and I strongly advocate its vision, having witnessed and contributed to the emergence of talented artists from its Fringe Stages right to the Standard Bank Young Artist level."

Musa Hlatshwayo

Funder of Mhayise Productions, an internationally acclaimed contemporary dance and theatre performance company in KwaZulu-Natal

"Festivals ushered me into the industry. They continue being platforms where I continue to grow while reconnecting with both national and international industry colleagues who have become my family."

Vinette Ebrahim

Veteran actress