The COVID-19 pandemic and resulting lockdown levels and restrictions have negatively affected many businesses, causing high levels of unemployment especially the hospitality and entertainment industries where financial aid is mostly non-existent. With the industry at a virtual standstill and performance venues indefinitely closed, many performers, some possibly regarded as local stars with celebrity status together with riggers, sound engineers and behind the scenes crew are in dire financial straits with nowhere to turn for assistance. Johannesburg-based Noah’s Art, conceptualised and operated by eight caring theatre and dance professionals worked together, raising funds for food parcels and food vouchers. So far Noah’s Art has distributed 1800 grocery vouchers to performers and their families in Soweto, Orange Farm, Johannesburg, Alexandra, Cape Town, Durban and Gqeberha. As the pandemic and lockdown continues especially in winter, the need for food and basic nourishment is ever increasing and funds are about to run out. During Saturday’s Role on Hellenic Radio, radio host, Renos Nicos Spandoudes chats to Shelley Meskin from Noah’s Art, and Simphiwe Libazi and Janice Lurie from Ezasi Kasi. Listen to the podcast to find out more!
