### Hae Lapeng Festival:
YO! My God! Performing at the PACOFS Theater for the Hae Lapeng Festival was EVERYTHING!! Under the dynamic and visionary leadership of Artistic Director Napo Masheane, the first Black female to hold this position, the theater has been transformed into a vibrant symbol of inclusivity and progress. Built during the apartheid era and long managed by white men, PACOFS has never seen anything this groundbreaking in its history. Together with Program Director/Producer Annalisa, Napo orchestrated a dazzling display of brilliance in dance, visual arts, music, theater, and film, unlike anything I’ve ever seen!
Hae Lapeng, meaning "home," embodied an energy that was exactly that—safe, nurturing, and inspiring. We found forever family with these amazing people. Days before the event, we plunged into rehearsals led by the incredible Bondo, the Musical Director, whose band, One Point, played with nearly all the artists, creating a seamless, rhythmic tapestry. The atmosphere was thick with camaraderie and love. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed into a family of creative geniuses and passionate artists. Each person we met was overflowing with humor, humility, and a profound sense of purpose.
The diversity of talent was ASTOUNDING! From industry veterans like Tamara Dey to South African superstar actress Didie Makobane to the vibrant youth dancers, the show spanned nearly eight hours with just one intermission, and the audience stayed the ENTIRE TIME!
The Hae Lapeng Festival is more than an event; it’s a jubilant celebration of art’s power to unite, heal, and inspire. In a world often divided, and in a theater that once barred non-whites, this festival stands as a testament to our shared humanity and the transformative power of creativity. The PACOFS Theater now shines as a beacon of unity and artistic excellence.
We are honored to have been part of this vibrant journey and look forward to future collaborations. We’ve already begun creating new music with Bondo and One Point... stay tuned for more!
In joy and creativity,
Jenn Johns
pacofs.co.za
