WGSA Hot Minds and Cold Nights

 

WGSA Classes And Special Offers August 2021

The WGSA is offering an exciting online programme via Zoom to WGSA members free of charge, and to Non-Members at R50 per session! Please RSVP below for the sessions you wish to attend in order to receive the Zoom Link, which will be sent to you 24 hours prior to the session.  Closing date for RSVP’s is at noon, two (2) days before the session.    NOTICE TO ALL NON-MEMBERS: We have a SPECIAL OFFER for you that serves to counter the economic effect that Covid-19 and the lockdowns have on performance writers. As a member you will have an opportunity to showcase your profile on our website, enter the WGSA Muse Awards and allow free access to our upcoming WGSA Indigenous Language Screenwriters Course in September, among other great benefits. The SPECIAL OFFER, not to be repeated, is a discount of 50% off membership fees to everyone joining between 1 August 2021 and 30 September 2021.

Full members: Regular fee R700 Now only R350

Candidate members: Regular fee R500 Now only R250

Student members (with a valid student registration): Regular fee R220 Now only R110

Corporate members: Regular fee R1200 Now only R600

When you click on JOIN you will also see the other benefits of joining the guild and specials that guild members receive on products such as Final Draft screenwriting software, and IMDb Pro, etc. If you have any questions, please send an email to admin@writersguildsa.org

JOIN

Here is our sensational line-up of classes for August 2021:

Target Audience Date Time Speaker Topic Emerging Writers' Class Wednesday, 04 August 2021 18h00 to 20h00 Mmabatho Kau Visual Storytelling Masterclass Saturday, 07 August 2021 10h00 to 12h00 Ayanda Halimane Breaking Down Barriers ALL Tuesday, 10 August 2021 18h00 to 19h00 Dr. Eubulus Timothy Wellness in the time of COVID Masterclass Wednesday, 18 August 2021 18h00 to 19h00 Bongi Ndaba Authentic Storytelling Emerging Writers' Class Saturday, 28 August 2021 10h00 to 12h00 Julie Hall Genres

Please see our website for more information about our speakers WGSA EVENTS Remember to RSVP before noon, two days prior to the event. Non-members: please make a payment to our bank account and upload the proof of payment on the RSVP form   WGSA Banking Details FNB Business Account Branch No: 250655  / Randparkridge Account No: 62886952467 REFERENCE:  Please use "PDP / your name and surname"

RSVP

The WGSA recognizes the dire impact of Covid-19 on our film, television and theatre industry and values all frontline health workers as well as those in our industry that continue to go to work to bring us news and entertainment.  For your COVID-19 Vaccine Registration go to: health.gov.za

THIS WEEK AT SAGA!

"This workshop will capture the intricacies of an agent and client relationship." THIS SATURDAY:   WE DISCUSS THE DYNAMICS OF AN AGENT/ACTOR RELATIONSHIP AND WE EXPLORE THE CHALLENGES OF THE DURBAN FILM/TV INDUSTRY. For actors: What is expected from you? What do you need from agents? Where do Casting Directors fit in and where do you go for auditions? What performance skills do you need to have? Is modeling the same as acting? For agents: Should actors have to pay a monthly fee? Should there be joining costs when an actor joins an agency? What contract do you need to have in place with actors? What is proper conduct to expect from actors? What do I need to do as an agent to be seen as “Professional”? What does it MEAN to be an agent or casting director? This SAGA workshop is a MUST for all Durban-based actors and agents. Date: Saturday 31 July Time: 10:00 – 12:00 Place: Register on the Zoom link provided.

Register Here:

THIS WEEK AT SAGA!

 

What characters think drives the story they are in! THIS SATURDAY:   Dialogue is at the heart of acting. How well we as artists relay a story depends on how we handle the nuances, subtext and psychology of the characters’ words. How we lift their voices from the page of a script to the actuality of acting!    Dialogue reveals character. The character’s world drives the story and as actors our main job is to do one thing well – tell the story.   In this workshop, we will delve into the psychology of human relationships (Transactional Analysis), which looks at the heart of how we interact, transact, converse, and identify with each other. We will explore how this can be used to enhance our craft, shaping characters that are layered, rich and drive a story.   Understanding a bit more of the human psychological modality will give you a greater insight into approaching dialogue in scripts, and insight on how to handle relationship interactions in your day-to-day life. Who is Clive? Clive Vanderwagen has a Bachelor of Arts in Dramatic Arts from Wits University and a Masters degree in Journalism and Media Studies. Clive has been in the industry for a number of years, and ran APM with Janet du Plessis in Cape Town for seven years. For the last six years he has worked in the corporate space, training people to use Transactional Analysis to build better business relationships. Date: SATURDAY 24 July 2021 Time: 10:00 to 12:00 Place: sign up HERE

Register Here:

Charter of Rights Express your support by Friday 23 July 2021

READ NOW

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on the creative sector.  It has also reflected just how marginalized the arts are within our society.   One of the positive things to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic though is the level of organization within the arts community along with a greater sense of agency by creatives. Against this backdrop, Im4theArts and Theatre and Dance Alliance (TADA) are jointly leading a campaign to affirm and assert the rights of artists in the South African context.  To this end, a CHARTER OF RIGHTS FOR SOUTH AFRICAN ARTISTS has been drafted, and the first phase of this campaign is to popularize the Charter within the arts community and to have as many artists as possible express their support for the Charter.  This will provide the organisers with a sound mandate to pursue the rights contained in the Charter and to make them a reality.   Thus far, a number of well-known artists across all disciplines have expressed their support for the Charter.  They include Basil Appollis, Bianca Amato, Chantal Herman, Charl-Johan Lingenfelder, Concord Nkabinde, Fiona Ramsay, Gregory Maqoma, Jack Devnarain, Katlego Chale, Lizz Meiring, Louis Viljoen, Mbongeni N. Mtshali, Mpho J. Molepo, Neil Coppen, Saartjie Botha, Sibongile Mngoma, Siphokazi Jonas, Sylvaine Strike, Thami Mbongo, Thoko Ntshinga and Vincent Mantsoe.   We plan to launch the Campaign for the Charter of Artists’ Rights on Wednesday 28 July 2021.   This is to invite you to express your support for the Charter.  You may do so by clicking on the link at the end of the Charter as attached.   The campaign is being coordinated by a committee whose members include Yvette Hardie, Mike van Graan, Thami Mbongo, Lesego van Niekerk, Andrico Goosen, Bryan Schimmel, Fiona Ramsay, Iain Robinson, Steven Sack, Thembalihle Mncadi and Tiisetso Mashifane, all of whom attended the first meeting of the committee.   Should you have any questions, you are welcome to raise them with anyone on the committee.   Please read through the Charter and express your support as soon as possible, but no later than Friday 23 July 2021.  We encourage you to forward this email invitation and Charter to at least 5 others whom you think would be interested.   We will change our sector for the better by working together.   ON BEHALF OF THE COMMITTEE FOR THE CHARTER OF ARTISTS’ RIGHTS

Sign the Petition

This week at SAGA!

 

Do you REALLY know voice over? THIS SATURDAY:   SAGA will be hosting an interactive, practical voice-over workshop with industry professionals Andrew Sutherland (Audio Engineer/Voice Artist), Elliot Powell (Creative Director/Copy Writer), Hanyani Mangwani (Voice artist and coach) and Ashley Dowds. Within this session, we will explore how to differentiate between the various genres within the Voice Over space - from retail to corporate. Creative and technical advice from the panel will help to shape the way you deliver your read. Script breakdown and studio code of conduct will be explained, along with effective ways of developing your voice-over performance. The workshop will also explore how you can work remotely, looking at key aspects involved with working to a brief at your home studio on a remote call-in real-time, as well as working solo towards a deadline. ALL THIS IN OUR FREE WEBINAR THIS COMING SATURDAY 17TH OF JULY 2021 When: Saturday 17th of July 2021 Time: 10:00 – 12:00 Where: Register on Zoom HERE

Register Here:

This week at SAGA - Bollywood

 

SAGA will host an information sharing discussion with the Indian Cine and Television Artist's Association (CINTAA) to discuss the working realities of Bollywood and its similarities to the South African industry. There will also be a screening of the documentary film "Living on the edge- Deglamourizing Bollywood" followed by commentary and Q&A with its producer Opender Chanana. This is a first for SAGA and we invite all South African actors to join the conversation. We will discuss: •             Health and Safety regulations on set. •             Intimacy coordination for scenes of a sensitive nature. •             Sexual Harassment. •             Removing barriers to LGBTQIA+ communities and embracing diversity in our industry. •             Performer Contracts and Collective Bargaining Rights.   This session promises to be an insightful behind-the-scenes look at one of the world's largest, and most popular film/TV industries.   This event is a celebration of South African/Indian actor solidarity, and we welcome you to join us. When: Saturday 10 July Time: 10:00 – 13:00 Where: Register FREE by registering here

Register Here:

JULY 9TH!

 

2 things:   1- Sign the petition here 2- Record and post your video message. We need you to record a video message and put it on your online presence! Facebook, Instagram, Twitter. We need all our voices out there under one banner so that when SAGA delivers this message to Parliament, it is a message from all of us. Here is the script: Mr President. Parliament. We are waiting on you! For years you have passed the buck. BUT it is now time to take responsibility for the people you are MEANT to serve! We need the Performers Protection Act amended. We need the Copyright Act amended We NEED you to allow us into the economy! So, we support our guild, SAGA, to help you get this done. But parliament, when you vote: Don’t pass the buck, pass the BILLS! Write a caption you feel is needed. Then tag SAGA, Parliament, and the Presidency as soon as possible. Facebook: @southafricanguildofactors @ParliamentofRSA @PresidencyZA @presidencyza Instagram: @SAguildofactors @parliamentofrsa  Twitter: @SAGActors @ParliamentofRSA @PresidencyZA

#DontPassTheBuckPassTheBills

Media Release: Animation comes under the spotlight at Durban FilmMart 2021

Media Release

Animation comes under the spotlight at Durban FilmMart 2021

Animation and its increasing role in African films will come under the spotlight at the 12th

edition of Durban FilmMart which takes place virtually from 16 to 25 July 2021.

Animation filmmaking continues to develop as its own category of filmmaking in Africa, with a

rise in the number of projects that are geared towards global audiences.  Africa’s premier film

event has recognised the importance of animation in this ever-growing medium of storytelling

and its exponential growth on the continent. It is the first time that animation will be given a

feature at a DFM.

Delegates attending this year’s DFM will, through panel discussions, look at the work of

filmmakers and organisations in Africa as they contribute to the growth of animation. In

addition, delegates will discuss the challenges that animators face while looking at the

opportunities and the future of animation storytelling.

Animation @ DFM includes:

Animation on the Continent: Connecting International Opportunities

This panel looks at the work of animation filmmakers and organisations in Africa as they

continue to take huge strides in growing the creative economy on the continent.

Panellists include, Mary Glasser (Triggerfish Foundation), Mounia Aram (African Animation

Network, Morroco), David Masanso (Crossroads Digital Multimedia Ltd),

Charles Houdart (Agence Française du Développement) and Ng'endo Mukii, (Ng'endo

Studios).

Building community for Animators in SA

This panel will look at the development of animation film in South Africa highlighting the

process from creation to development and reflecting on training and exhibition.

Panellists in this session comprise, Mary Glasser (Triggerfish Foundation), Nick Cloete

(Animation South Africa), Deidre Jantjies (Na Aap Productions), Clare Louis (Katanimate

Studios), Dianne Makings, (Cape Town International Animation Festival) and Lesego Vorster

(Tshimologong Precinct)

Sketching African Animation Development Platforms

Key animation training organisations highlight the work and programmes they have initiated

and also discuss challenges, opportunities and the future of animation storytelling.

Here the panellists are, Mary Glasser, (Triggerfish Foundation), Mukui Mbindyo (African

Digital Media Group), Jesse Kang'eth, (Heva Fund),Tumelo Selamolela, (Digital Canvas

Academy), Kabelo Maaka, (Cabblow Studios) and Colin Payne, (Triggerfish Academy).

2

The Durban FilmMart 2021 is produced by the Durban FilmMart Institute with principal funding

from the Durban Film Office and Ethekwini Municipality.

The DFM 2021 virtual event is supported by the National Film and Video Foundation,

KwaZulu-Natal Film Commission, Film and Publications Board, International Emerging Film

Talent Association,  Institut Francais – South Africa, Wesgro and Namibian Film Commission

with the following programme partners - AfriDocs and Avek, Berlinale Talent, Cape Town

International Animation Film Festival, Digital Lab Africa, Documentary Filmmakers

Association, Documentary Association of Europe, DOK.fest München, DOK Leipzig, Dolby,

Durban International Film Festival, FidaDoc, Hot Docs Blue Ice Fund, Guangzhou

International Documentary Film Festival, International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam,

Independent Producers Organisation, Miradas Doc, Netflix, Organisation Internationale de la

Francophonie, Produire au Sud, Rotterdam Cinemart, SASFED, South African Guild of

Actors, Sørfond - Norwegian South Film Fund, SWIFT, Trace Studios, Writers Guild of  South

Africa.

 

Register for the Durban FilmMart here: http://www.durbanfilmmart.co.za/Delegate-

Registration.aspx

ENDS

About the Durban FilmMart Institute

Durban FilmMart Institute is the business hub of the African Film industries in a world where

African film Industry professionals and products are globally competitive and celebrated. The

mission of the Durban FilmMart Institute is to provide appropriate and effective

programmes and services to promote, support and facilitate investment in the African film

industries, so that African film industry professionals and products are competitive and

celebrated globally.

For more information on the Durban FilmMart Institute, visit: http://www.durbanfilmmart.co.za

TIKTOK CONCLUDES FIRST RISING VOICES PROJECT BY ANNOUNCING CASH GRANT OF CLOSE TO R1 MILLION

 

TIKTOK CONCLUDES FIRST RISING VOICES PROJECT BY ANNOUNCING CASH GRANT OF CLOSE TO R1 MILLION Rising Voices content achieved more than 839 million views during programme 06 July 2021: TikTok has announced the inaugural cohort of Rising Voices grant recipients, with 20 creators receiving a cash grant of about R860,000 in total. Some of the grant recipients include thozimusic, khanyisa_jaceni, doctor.siya and sphokuhle.n. The grant follows the first-ever six-week Rising Voices incubator programme in June where, along with 80 other creators, the grant recipients were given mentorship, masterclasses and special training on content creation for TikTok. In addition to the cash grant, recipients will continue to receive content advice and support while they conceptualise and curate 10 pieces of content for their platforms. TikTok will provide further support by amplifying their content to users on the platform, which in turn will help those creators grow their accounts. Boniswa Sidwaba, TikTok Content Operations Manager, Africa, said that growing a diverse and all-inclusive community on TikTok remains a top priority for the platform. “Through Rising Voices, our goal has always been to uplift and empower creators of colour on the platform, providing the necessary support to help them express themselves. With the right tools at their fingertips, we were truly spellbound by the incredible talent that came to light over the last six weeks." “During the programme, it was inspiring to see participants fully immerse themselves in creating quality content, participating in the masterclasses and taking to collaboration and connecting with each other with great enthusiasm. We are excited to reveal that in addition to the 839 million views received across creator content, 4.6 million followers were gained, 2.1 million shares occurred and a total of 9,800 videos created, showcasing local and relatable content created during the course of the programme.” Sidwaba added that South Africa is home to extraordinary local talent with the ability to stand out on a global stage such as TikTok. “We trust that the skills learned, and discussions had, will empower this generation of content creators to create a bright future for themselves. On TikTok, the possibilities are really endless.” “The NFVF is proud to have been chosen to partner with TikTok on this groundbreaking initiative. The opportunity to mold young content creators into future entrepreneurs that will learn to take advantage of all forms of media and monetise their ideas is one we were happy to support. Congratulations to all the young people that were chosen to take part and we look forward to future collaborations”, said Makhosazana Khanyile, CEO of the National Film & Video Foundation. The 20 Rising Voices grant recipients were selected by a panel of judges from the TikTok Creator and Content Team based on their engagement levels, dedication to the programme and overall project immersion. Keen to see how the programme unfolded? Check out #CelebrateRisingVoices on TikTok for all the masterclass action and highlights. You can also check out the full Rising Voices class here. Note to Editors: This announcement comes after the conclusion of the Rising Voices programme; an incubator-based initiative that ran in South Africa for six weeks focusing on supporting local black TikTok creators through digital skills development and content amplification. Running for the first time in the country, participants were taken through a rigorous content creation boot camp where they learned digital skills to help amplify their content creation abilities, grow their personal brands, monetise their content and gain access to career-building resources and industry experts such as filmmaker, Mmabatho Montsho; Actress Nomzamo Mbatha, DNA Brand Architects Founder, Sylvester Chauke; and social media influencers, Nadia Jaftha and Mihlali Ndamase. Full list of Grant recipients (in no particular order): perimaskitchen callherthato thando.khumalo brwnskn thozimusic king.grrrr Witney8 khanyisa_jaceni paballokgware doctor.siya lxndi.nkengana hallebberry mrsizwe_sir thereal250goat nchls_b moghelingz kaylakimkay keraramz Refiloe.pinkpanther sphokuhle.n About TikTok: TikTok is the leading destination for short-form mobile video. Our mission is to inspire creativity and bring joy. TikTok has global offices including Los Angeles, New York, London, Paris, Berlin, Dubai, Mumbai, Singapore, Jakarta, Johannesburg, Seoul, and Tokyo. www.tiktok.com.

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