Prof Raymond Dart, who discovered the skull belonging to an early hominid, named it Australopithecus africanus meaning the “southern ape of Africa”.
The above shows the rich history Taung enjoys and pride itself with. Tourism and other industrial sectors contribute to the financial well-being of this historical place, renowned internationally.
Having said that, the annual Taung Cultural Calabash Festival 2014 returns, having been initiated in 1994 by Hendrik Baird, as a celebration of cultures and coincided with the democratic elections in the country.
The name symbolises the African tradition of using a Calabash as a means of feeding people.
Launched last week Friday at the Taung Cultural Center, the sole aim of the festival is to showcase the talent of youngsters who live in the North West Province -through dance, acting, singing and artistic skills they possess.
Close to R3m has been budgeted as the revival of the festival.
The ambitious young-ones are invited to auditions taking place in four districts Dr Kenneth Kaunda (August 23 -Klerksdorp), Ngaka Modiri Molema (16 August- Mmabana Mahikeng), Dr Ruth Mompati District September 6 -Mmabana Taung) and Bojanala Platinum District, August 30- Mmabana Rustenburg).
Established and local comedians promise to live everyone on stitches on Friday 26.
According to Molite Productions, the organizers of the fest various leading acts will grace main events on September 27 and jazz on 28, respectively.
Although no details were given, unconfirmed reports are that the likes HHP, Khuli Chana, Tuks and other well known brands from NW are major draw cards.
NW MEC for Arts, Culture and Traditional Affairs Tebogo Modise says, she looks forward to the festival since this will be her first major project to oversee since her appointment to the post.
This year’s theme is “celebrating 20 years’ of discovering new talent in the world of arts and culture”.
The Calabash is now presented by the Mmabana Foundation after Transnet stopped its funding.
National Lotteries Board is the new funder.
Tickets will be available at Shoprite or Checkers outlets. For more info and programmes visit: www.mmabana.org.za
