Performing the City – 125 of Johannesburg’s Black Music’, is the title of a talk to be given by Prof David Coplan at Origins Centre on August 2.
Professor Coplan, of Wits University, has been researching and writing on South African performing arts for 35 years and is the author of the book of record, ‘In Township Tonight! Three Centuries of South African Black Music and Theatre’ (Jacana and Chicago 2007). His presentation will provide a musical tour through the development of Johannesburg as a centre of creative assimilation and innovation over the decades. “No great city attains its distinctive character without the work of its popular artists over the generations, and Johannesburg’s has been forged in the face of great obstacles,” he comments. “Join a dance down Memory Lane and hear how Jozi’s jive, like the city itself, conquered all.” Coplan is Professor and Chair in Social Anthropology at Wits University, and has taught and lectured widely on African performing arts in North America, Europe, and Africa. He is the author of numerous publications in the field and has also joined in the production of programmes in a range of media including print journalism, recordings, radio, documentary film and television. Date: Tuesday 2 August 2011 Venue: Origins Centre Time: 18h00 for 18h30 Cost: R45/R35 for Wits staff and students RSVP: or tel 011 717 4700 Booking essential
