Concert in aid of fire victims – 'not politicians'

KNYSNA ENTERTAINMENT NEWS - More than 900 tickets have already been sold for a music concert that will be hosted on Friday 23 November at Knysna Secondary School Hall in Hornlee from 16:30 until 22:00 in aid of the communities of Farleigh, Karatara, and Geelhoutvlei who lost their homes in the recent fires.

The event is being organised by local resident and makeup artist Jovan Calvert. “People are suffering and it's my impression that politicians are using this opportunity to campaign. I find it utterly disturbing that the response has been political and I wanted to do something for those people who lost so much in the fires,” says Calvert.

“I thought to myself, stuff the politicians, I'm going to arrange a concert for the benefit of the people so that every person who attends the show can feel as if they did something and made a contribution towards humanity. It's time for young people to stand up and do something, leave the politics to the politicians.”

Calvert contacted his musician friends who all agreed to perform at the show at no charge.

“There will be 10 local performers, including artists from Plettenberg Bay, the Crags, Hornlee and Concordia. There will also be performances by Derick Plaaitjies of Cape town, who rose to fame in 2016 on South Africa's Got Talent when he received a 'golden buzzer'. Another famous Cape Town musician, G3d8te (Gedagte), will also be performing.”

Calvert says the only costs they will carry is the hiring of the hall and the two Cape Town artists' travelling expenses.

Transparency is key

“We will make available all receipts in the interest of transparency,” says Calvert, adding that on the next day all proceeds from the concert will be used to purchase pots, pans, stationery, clothing and food, to distribute to fire victims.

“We have obtained a list of all fire victims from the affected areas, and donations will be strictly monitored so that only eligible beneficiaries receive this assistance,” he says.

He reiterates that the event will in no way be politicised and that any politician who wishes to attend may do so in their private capacity, but will not be allowed to take photos or speak at the event.

“Children will also be entertained, as we have jumping castles and a jungle gym,” says Calvert. “I'm really excited about this event because the community is excited.”

ImagJovan Calvert, a makeup artist, is the organiser of a music concert to be hosted on Friday 23 November, in aid of victims of the recent fires. Photo: Supplied