The RAD Foundation will once again host the annual Montagu Music, Art, Dance and Drama Festival (MMADD) from the 10th to the 20th August in Montagu on Route 62. This event is now in it’s 21st year. Read more.
Helen Gooderson tells Naomi Meyer about this year's festival.
Hi Helen, for anybody who has not heard of this festival – in its 21st year! – please give us some background? What is it about, where is it and who can attend?
It is an adjudicated, competitive platform for primary school, high school and youth. All entrants receive certificates of participation. Categories include: Art, Photography, Music, Dance, Literature, Poetry and Drama.
Is this festival aimed at young people – by young people for young people?
Most definitely!
Competitors at the 2015 festival in Montagu (photo by Allison Foat).
Which events are you particularly looking forward to this year?
Fiesta of dance entries, choir performances in historical NG church on Friday the 12th at 18h30 and the Orchestra/Ensemble Programme on Saturday the 13th at 19h00. The Drama Week (17-20 August) is going to be a treat!
Please tell our readers about Montagu's young artists?
Montagu boasts many accomplished artists and there is a huge interest in art amongst our youth. Why hold this festival here specifically? One of the most beautiful towns on Route 62 makes it perfect place, not only to compete here but to experience the treasure we have to offer.
Do you think that art gives young people a voice?
Most definitely. The theme this year is "This is me".
Are the young people aware of what they can create?
Every year we see growth and development in artists participating. We strive to encourage and educate youth in the value of the arts platform being vital in delivering pertinent messages to youth. Through the RAD Foundation "adopt-an-artist" project we assist/encourage and promote talent that we discover. This year Peter James van der Berg, a visual artist, whose work received several double gold awards during his high school career, was invited to illustrate a book written by Syndi Holmes, from University of Southern Maine, and will be launched at this year’s festival! The Zolani Youth Choir were first seen in public at this festival, winning the Best Choir trophy – they have continued to achieve new heights each year, and have been invited to perform this year with the Cape Philharmonic Youth Wind Ensemble in Montagu on the 3rd of October.
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