Mzansi Youth Choir to perform at Melrose Arch: Carols on the Piazza

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As part of its annual Destination Christmas celebration, Joburg’s premier lifestyle precinct, Melrose Arch will host its popular Carols on the Piazza on Saturday, 23 November at 6:30 PM. This year’s event promises to be an unforgettable experience as it will feature none other than the Mzansi Youth Choir, fresh from their global acclaim on America’s Got Talent and known for sold-out shows across the world. Plus, the funds raised will help bring a touch of sparkle to those who face challenges with vision—the most precious gift of all.

 

Set to take place in the heart of Melrose Arch’s vibrant piazza, Carols on the Piazza will offer audiences the chance to sing along to cherished Christmas classics with the beloved choir, whose powerful voices captivate audiences. Surrounded by the stunning glow of Melrose Arch’s renowned festive lights – the biggest and brightest display in Johannesburg – attendees can expect a truly enchanting evening as the choir’s harmonies blend with the twinkling night sky.

 

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The Graham Norton Show returns to screens

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I’ve watched Graham Norton for years and always look forward to a fun filled hour of his talk show.

For almost 30 years, Norton has been a fixture in British television, offering up the perfect blend of wit, charm, and cheeky humour that keeps his audience — and his star-studded guests — coming back for more.

 

With nearly two decades of hosting on the BBC alone, Norton has established himself as a maestro of celebrity banter. His ability to create a relaxed atmosphere on set is unmatched, effortlessly drawing out amusing anecdotes from the A-listers who sit elbow-to-elbow on his sofa.

 

As Norton puts it, the show is like a TV party that gets the weekend started with a swing — and it’s one he’s still delighted to host after all these years.

“I’ve been doing this for so long, yet every time I sit in that chair, there’s still a buzz,” Norton shares. “It’s like riding a bike — familiar but exciting at the same time.”

 

Now celebrating the release of his fifth novel, Frankie, which he calls his “most ambitious yet,” Norton continues to surprise audiences with his versatility. With four bestselling books already to his name, his success as a novelist shows he’s just as talented behind the keyboard as he is on camera. But it’s his role as the host of one of the UK’s most beloved chat shows that keeps fans flocking to their screens.

 

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Explore National Geographic’s Latest Antarctic Adventures

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The S.A. Agulhas II as seen from the ice floes of Antarctica. (credit: Nick Birtwistle)

In celebration of its exciting upcoming programming, National Geographic Africa recently hosted a brand immersion event in Johannesburg, that I attended. I was taken on a journey of discovery with various interactive installations themed according to its upcoming programming slate for National Geographic (DStv Channel 181, Starsat 220) over the summer, in addition to viewing the South African premiere of the much-anticipated documentary film Endurance.

Guests participated in engaging activities commencing with an “ungooglable” question challenge on arrival. Thereafter, we were transported to another world in the event venue, enjoying a sensory experience set up to mimic the wild Antarctic landscape, the setting for the Endurance film. Food and activities were crafted to engage the guests in the different programming properties, in a way that triggered the imagination and provoked a sense of adventure.

Watch my video of the event here:

Guests at the event included content creators, media, affiliates and advertising sales partners. Participating content creators included Martin Meyer, Jo Judnick-Wilson, Rozanne McKenzie, Simone Dominique, Taryn Louch, Sara-Jane Makwala, Vanes-Mari Du Toit, Yolanda Bukani and Zuraida Jardine.

The television presenter Masa Kekana, MC for the event, shared her own experience in Antarctica, describing it as a pristine landscape unlike any other, before the Endurance directors Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin; Marine Archaeologist and Director of Exploration, Mensun Bound; and executive producer Dan Snow welcomed guests via a video message. The four paid a special tribute to the numerous South African crew members that were aboard the local icebreaker Agulhus II, the vessel deployed on the expedition that led to the discovery of the Endurance wreck, citing that they had set sail from the beautiful city of Cape Town, and the results show that team work really does make the dream work.

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Join the Motherland Festival at Cradle Boutique Hotel

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Empire proudly presents the Motherland Festival, an extraordinary celebration of South African music and culture, set to take place at the Cradle Boutique Hotel on 30 November 2024. Nestled in the heart of the Cradle of Humankind, this festival honours the deep historical, cultural and natural significance of Africa – the birthplace of humankind.

The Cradle Boutique Hotel, located within the Greater Cradle Nature Reserve, offers a unique and sacred setting for this one-of-a-kind event.

The Motherland Festival reflects the soul of Africa—where past and future meet. African rhythms blend with futuristic melodies in an immersive all-day celebration, featuring a star-studded line-up of South Africa’s finest talent. Guests will be moved by the music, dance and vibrant community, all set against the breath-taking landscape of one of the world’s most profound historical sites.

The Motherland Festival reflects the soul of Africa—where past and future meet. African rhythms blend with futuristic melodies in an immersive all-day celebration, featuring a star-studded line-up of South Africa’s finest musical talent:

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Discover Johannesburg’s OKIO Nightclub and Bellucci Lounge

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Nestled in the heart of Africa’s richest square mile, a game-changing nightlife destination has arrived: welcome to OKIO and the Bellucci Luxury Lounge.

This meticulously designed venue invites you to indulge your senses and elevate your evenings into a world of unparalleled luxury and energy. Offering two distinct and elegant spaces, OKIO Nightclub and Bellucci Luxury Lounge, this destination stands out for its unique ambiance and attention to detail.

OKIO Nightclub

From the moment you step into OKIO (pronounced Awk-Key-Oh), the modern luxury nightclub and event venue, you will be mesmerized by its striking design—an artistic fusion of rich colours and textures. With opulent lounge areas featuring lavishly upholstered furniture, soaring ceilings, and grand bespoke chandeliers, OKIO is set to become the premier playground for Johannesburg’s elite, celebrities, and trendsetters.
 
This luxurious nightclub offers private seating, a stunning marble bar, intimate champagne lounges, and VIP suites with personalized bottle service. The state-of-the-art sound and lighting system creates an electrifying atmosphere, perfect for high-profile DJs and world-class entertainment, with both local and international acts lighting up the decks.


 

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