By Pinehas Nakaziko
WINDHOEK– Delights of the Ballet, a ballet production hosted by the College of the Arts in association with the Cape Town City Ballet and Old Mutual kicks off the National Art Gallery 25th anniversary celebrations tonight.
The celebrations, until August 30, are commemorating the colourful history of the NTN and the pivotal role it has been playing in the development of arts and culture in Namibia. “As one of the largest performing arts organisations in Namibia, NTN not only serves as a platform for the performing arts but has over the years supported the arts through development projects and showcasing the performing arts through a culturally diverse lens,” says Public Relations and Marketing Officer, Enid Johr.
Speaking at the launch of the celebrations on Monday, NTN Board Chairperson, Gerry Hill, says it is an age which derides the importance of Arts and Culture. “I would argue that for that very reason we must guard and protect the arts and remind ourselves of its significance in an age of reason and technology. It is a truism that the arts nurture the soul of a nation; it is the arts that nourish national identity in the most gentle and positive of ways,” she says.
The Acting General Manager of NTN, Alma Ulamba, says their main objectives are to present, produce, manage and conduct performing arts, both professional and amateur, in such manner and at such times and places as the company shall determine. “This has always been the backbone of our existence. We have grown from a monthly calendar of about 3-4 activities per month to about 18 activities per month, with staff who work tirelessly to ensure our audiences are both entertained and educated,” she says. Over the years, they have staged bothlocal, regional and international talents on their stage. thus, they have created platforms through various programs for a variety of performing artists over the span of the 25 years.
“Theatre is not just about drama but also ballet, classical music, comedy, poetry, dance as well as children’s theatre. So as part of our 25th birthday celebrations, we have prepared an exciting month long programme consisting of a variety of performing art disciplines,” says Ulamba.
On August 30 the birthday celebrations ends with an extravagant concerts by Big Mama. The celebrations programme will showcase all disciplines of the performing arts at the three different venue of NTN such as the NTN Auditorium, NTN Back Stage and NTN Courtyard. Events such as puppet shows for children, live music shows and magicians will be adding to the festive air of the whole event.
The celebrations will also be an account of the NTN’s triumphs and challenges. They will also honour the legacies of creative artists as they aspire to expand their programming and endeavour to strengthen the bond between the NTN and the community.
Caption: Acting General Manager of the National Theatre of Namibia (NTN), Alma Ulamba, at the launch of NTN’s 25 years celebrations on Monday.
Picture:NTN