Artistic Director of the National Arts Festival, Ismail Mahomed announced yesterday morning that the 2016 Festival will be his last. He has been at the artistic helm of the Festival for the past nine years.
Artistic Director of the National Arts Festival, Ismail Mahomed announced yesterday morning that the 2016 Festival will be his last. He has been at the artistic helm of the Festival for the past nine years.
Speaking at the press launch in Johannesburg of this year’s programme, he said, “I believe this to be the best job in the South African arts sector, but it needs constant refreshing, and the Festival will benefit from the energy and focus that a new Artistic Director will bring.”
Mahomed said his focus had been firmly on delivering another inspiring and varied programme in 2016, but an announcement about his future plans would be made in due course.
Festival CEO, Tony Lankester acknowledged the contribution Mahomed has made to the Festival during his tenure as Artistic Director.
“He has made a significant impact on the event as well as on the national conversation about the arts,” Lankester said.
“We’ll talk more about his influence in the weeks to come as we find ways to thank him for his hard work and passion.”
