By Karabo Matalajoe
The National Arts fringe programme is an open-access platform that invites artists from all walks of life to present their art without any curation or gatekeeping. These are shows independently produced by registered artists to encourage freedom of expression, experimentation and diverse creativity. They cover a variety of creative genres including theatre, dance, music, comedy, film and children’s shows.
To adapt to the digital space, the NAF launched a virtual version of this programme, which allows artists to register their shows, submit digital materials and handle their own production and promotion. Furthermore, this allows lovers of arts and creativity to engage with artists’ work online through vFringe. These shows allow for a wider reach in audience and will run through a pay-per-view system which allows for ticket bookings through the National Arts Festival website from 26 June 2025 at 08:00 until 06 July 2025 at 23:59.
The programme for vFringe NAF shows includes the following:
- BUITE: SUPEROUTSIDE BOESMAN KHOI-QOH RAP CONCERT by Intonga Entertainment (PTY) – MUSIC
- Burrow by Alan Parker – FILM
- Digital Shaman by Willside Dance Company – FILM
- Letter To Society by KgatoNtle Holdings (PTY) LTD – FILM
- Not All Men Are Trash – Said A Man by Xiluva Collective in collaboration with UnrecArt- FILM
- Seek Body Contour by Marcia Peschke – FILM
- Weight in Waiting by Jacques Batista – FILM
These vFringe shows serve as a platform for emerging and well-established artists to engage with audiences in a different way. They allow creative freedom and foster a diverse range of voices, also providing the festival with a new and innovate approach.
