General News - May 2011

Zambezi water levels drop - 31 May 2011


São Tomé & Príncipe developments - 25 May 2011


24 May 2011
The government of São Tomé & Príncipe, Africa's Eden, the emerging market investment group (HBD) and other private investors have entered into a strateic partnership, aimed to develop the sustainable tourism potential of Africa's second smallest country.
PRÍNCIPE WILL BECOME THE FIRST COMPLETELY ECOLOGICALLY RUN TROPICAL ISLAND ECONOMY.
The Príncipe development plan offers a platform to create sustainable economic growth oh the island without jeorpadizing the pristine surroundings. Príncipe will be transformed into a fully self-supporting economy, driven by sustainable development plan.
The developments will consist out of four key elements:
Accessibility
Sustainable economic growth
Education
National Park Management
One of the main pillars in the Príncipe Development Plan is Sustainable Economic Growth which focuses, amongst other things, on employment of the local population in tourism enterprises. Employment will be created in hotels, airport, service and logistical sector.
A total of 150 extra beds will be realized on different sites on the island of Príncipe. An intimate beach lodge will be built on Praia Borra and a new luxurious beach resort will also be constructed on Praia Macaco and Praia Boi.
The former plantation Belo Monte will be restored to its original colonial style and will host a small luxury boutique hotel. Bom Bom itself will also be converted into smaller and even more up-market accommodation. Meanwhile, the construction of a nature lodge in the south of the island, at the mouth of Rio Sào Tomé, will allow visitors to explore the Obo National Park.
Gorille permit cost reduced - 19 May 2011


The Uganda Wildlife authority has dropped the price of mountain gorilla permits for the low season. During March, April, May, October and November the price will be US$350.00 per person per permit.
Events and Festivals June and July 2011 - 17 May 2011


CAPE TOWN
JUNE
Cape Town Marimba Festival
The concert will feature some of Cape Towns best marimba bands, and will end in a mass performance with over 120 players on stage. Baxter Theatre.
11 June 2011
The Baxter Dance Festival
Provides both emerging and established dance companies and choreographers an opportunity to present their work. Baxter Theatre.
27 June to 2 July 2011
Andrey Baranova + Maria Baranova
A graduate of St Petersburg`s Conservatory and of the Conservatory of Lausanne Andrey has performed across Europe and Asia to critical and popular acclaim. He performs on a Guarneri violin, in duo with his sister Maria, an award winning chamber musician. Baxter Theatre
4 June 2011
Somebody to Love
The legendary music of QUEEN performed by singers who will be performing on stage with the dancers showcasing a sleek, seductive celebration of love. An elegant and sophisticated show brimming with atmosphere, ambience and superlative entertainment. Artscape Theatre.
8 to 12 June 2011
That 80’s Show
Step back in time to the 80s, the new musical tribute that’s guaranteed to get you dancing in your seats. The show, set to a television studio storyline, will take the audience back in time with artists such as U2, Cindy Lauper, The Bangles, Stevie Wonder, Tina Turner, Michael Jackson, Madonna, Queen, Whitney Houston, George Michael and many more. Roxy Revue Bar – Grand West.
9 Jun to 30 July 2011
International Ballet Gala
Showcases a galaxy of ballet stars, in showpieces from legendary ballets such as Swan Lake, The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker. Hailing from Australia, Canada, Cuba, Latvia and the USA among other countries, the ballet stars perform at this most glittering event. Grand West Arena.
29 June 2011
JULY
Danscape 2011
This annual showcase of dance allows the young up and coming Jazzart dancers and choreographers the chance to perform in a professional environment. A number of young artists and companies who have never before featured on this platform will perform. Artscape Theatre.
7 to 10 July 2011
Kylie Minogue Aphrodite-Les Folies
Aphrodite was released in July 2010 and became Kylie`s fifth #1 album in the UK, hitting the top spot a full 22 years to the week since her debut album Kylie entered the chart. Grand Arena / Grand West
13 and 14 July 2011
The Nutcracker - Ballet
Imperial Russian Ballet - The Nutcracker: Following their 2009 sell-out season of Carmina Burana by Carl Orff, the Imperial Russian Ballet Company returns to South Africa to perform The Nutcracker. They are joined by South African children from ballet schools. Artscape Theatre
14 to 16 July 2011
Indigenous Orchestra Ensemble
Is an eclectic mix of indigenous to mainstream South African contemporary music and jazz, accompanied by brass instruments, keyboard, Imbira, traditional instruments and dancers. It is narrated through storytelling, which tells the tale of how indigenous instruments were introduced in our communities. Artscape Theatre.
JOHANNESBURG
JUNE
Gauteng Astrology & Psychic Festival
The Festival consists of psychics, astrologers, palm readers and spiritual healers; it also includes an informative yet entertaining program of events. Patrons will also be able to attend free live workshops hosted by experts in the respective fields. Sales of esoteric items. Emperor’s Palace
24 to 27 June 2011
Hugh Masekela - Live!
....with his full International Band, playing a selection of his classics as well as tracks from his brand new album, "Jabulani". The Lyric at Gold Reef City
3 to 4 June 2011
JULY
Parlotones Dragonflies and Astronauts
This rock theatre production is complete with storyline, sets and characters revolving around the greatest hits of The Parlotones. On the 16th of July the show will be broadcast live from The Teatro at Montecasino in 3D. The transmission - a world first - will be beamed via satellite to 3D outlets around the globe. Teatro at Montecasino.
13 to 17 July 2011
The International Ballet Gala
Showcases a galaxy of ballet stars, in showpieces from legendary ballets such as Swan Lake, The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker. Glittering performances by international ballet stars. Teatro at Montecasino.
7 to 10 July 2011
Trio Fibonnaci
Relax with JMS and enjoy the world’s musical masterpieces, brought to you by exciting international and local artists of the highest caliber. Linder Auditorium.
30 July 2011
Mediatech Africa
Mediatech Africa showcases cutting edge technologies and services from industry leaders in television and broadcast, sound and audio, lighting and staging, animation, communication and related fields. Coca Cola Dome – Randburg
20 to 22 July 2011
National Antiques & Decorative Arts Faire
Local and international exhibitors showcase their collections. There will be a wide range of furniture from the Victorian, Georgian, Edwardian and Art Nouveau collections. There will be jewellery, glassware, porcelain as well as prints, maps, coins, military memorabilia and books on display. Sandton Convention Centre.
22 to 24 July 2011
Postponed introduction of Zimbabwe airport levy - 9 May 2011


The Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe has postponed the introduction the proposed new levy for domestic and international travellers at the country’s airports citing logistical and administrative challenges.
CAAZ introduced the Aviation Infrastructure Development Fund last month to raise money from travellers for infrastructure development and equipment modernisation. Under the proposed levy, which was supposed to be introduced on May 1 Zimbabwe’s domestic and international air travellers would pay an extra $10 and $30 in levies respectively.
Diplomats, direct transit passengers and children under 2 were exempted from the tax. The money raised would have been used to upgrade the country’s airports.
Standard, Sunday May 8, Pg 5