The seventh edition of the Constitution Hill Human Rights Festival - four days of activism, debates and creativity - takes place next weekend in Joburg, inviting the public to join together to reflect on issues including social justice, gender-based violence, climate action, democracy and inclusion. This year's theme is “A Just and Inclusive South Africa.” The organisers say it's an opportunity to reignite the values enshrined in our constitution, urging a collective commitment to equality, dignity, freedom and justice for all.
The event is multi-pronged, featuring an 8km "We The People Walk"; a book fair; children’s village; film festival; and multiple dialogue sessions - but the pièce de résistance of the proceedings is "The Sounds of Freedom Music Festival", which takes place on the final day. It will be headlined by renowned jazz artist Mandisi Dyantyis, supported by local DJs KEDINEO, Buhle Mbongwa and Simmy. The show will kick off at 6pm at Constitution Square.
Born and raised in Gqeberha, Dyantyis grew up singing in church, began playing the trumpet at the age of eight and eventually joined the University of Cape Town's Big Band. He is a multi-award-winning artist, composer, arranger and producer who blends jazz with Western classical and African indigenous music. He has played with greats including Jimmy Dludlu, the Abdullah Ibrahim Big Band, Robbie Jansen, Max Vidima and Moreira Chonguiça. Known for his electrifying, sold-out performances, Mandisi is a popular artist and a prolific composer for film, stage and television. We spoke to him ahead of his performance.
MANDISI ON THE EVENT
My upcoming performance at the Constitution Hill Human Rights Festival will reflect the themes of human rights and justice, which were an important part of my upbringing and are always evident in my music.
I hope to really engage with the audience during the festival but every audience is different, and, though I will try to inspire their emotions, I try not to have a premeditated idea before I get on stage.
MANDISI ON THE MUSIC
I blend jazz, traditional South African sounds and soul. This fusion of styles in my sound is a reflection of who I am.
My music often touches on themes of identity, struggle, and celebration, which resonates with many people in the audience because we all have similar journeys, no matter our backgrounds or where we come from, and the commonality of our stories brings us together in appreciation of the music.
Music plays an important role in activism and social change, especially when performed at a festival that celebrates human rights. Many artists are at the forefront of change, and I am no different.
Some songs will have extra significance in the context of the festival - for example, the nostalgic traditional songs allow audiences to reflect on their personal journeys.
MANDISI ON MANDISI
As a trumpeter and a singer I balance my performance on stage. The two spheres of my performance share equal responsibility, both on and off stage. My vocals and my instrument are "one voice".
My music is inspired by my experiences, both personal and professional. Being South African has shaped my journey as an artist. I respect the shoulders we stand on and the paths that have been laid out before us. This “knowing” who and what has come before brings me deep gratitude which is expressed in my musical voice.
To prepare for a performance like this one, especially in such an important cultural and historical setting, my pre-show ritual is to pray daily.
MANDISI ON THE FUTURE
After my performance at the Constitution Hill Human Rights Festival I'm travelling to the UK in April with my theatre company Isango Ensemble, of which I am associate director and co-music director. We have some exciting ventures that will be announced soon. Keep your eyes on the socials.
The three-day festival programme is free to all and gates open at 10am on March 20, 21 and 22. Attendees are required to obtain complimentary daily tickets on Quicket for public and entertainment programmes between March 20 and 22. Bookings for the "We The People Walk" on March 23 are available on Webtickets.
The Constitution Hill Human Rights Festival takes place from 20 to 23 March, for more info
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