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The Eastern Cape Government will launch the 49th edition of the National Arts Festival (NAF) on Thursday at the Settlers National Monument in Makhanda.
The provincial government has contributed more than R14 million to this year's event as part of its commitment to support the arts community.
In a statement, NAF says festival-goers can expect to be blown away by the immense talent that will be displayed in more than 2 400 performances spanning over eleven days.
MEC for the Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Nonceba Kontsiwe says the festival provides a platform for artists to express themselves.
Performances will cover every genre.
"The work of artists forms a foundation for social cohesion and the expression of our collective stories. Its impact reaches beyond the bounds of arts and culture. The Arts are also an important driver of jobs and positively impact tourism through events such as these."
"Beyond this, it is a source of inspiration for the people of the Eastern Cape who see their local cultural heroes return from global stages to perform at home," she said.
Deputy Chairperson of the NAF Board, Dr. Siphiwo Mahala, said the start of a Festival is always brimming with energy.
"It takes a year of dedication, planning, and pulling together a team who can successfully pull it off."
