Monday, 15 June 2015

BORN TO PERFORM

Stars of today and budding stars of tomorrow light up the stage

The Lyric Theatre, Gold Reef City
Wednesday, 1 July at 7`;30pm

Local stars Daniel Baron, Graeme Watkins, Nathan Ro and Cito join budding stars of tomorrow on stage for ONE NIGHT ONLY in the Born to Perform Gala Concert taking place at The Lyric Theatre, Gold Reef City on Wednesday 1st July at 7:30pm.
 
Born To Perform is a platform created by Gemma Marinus Donnelly and Matthew Marinus to create professional opportunities in the Performing Arts Industry for young budding talented children and teens.
 
Originally coming from the UK, Gemma has been a major player in the musical theatre industry in SA for over 8 years before opening up an elite performing arts school  (Stageworx School Of Performing Arts) in 2009.  www.stageworx.co.za
Passionate about growing a bright future for our budding artists Gemma and Matthew are heavily involved in training and showcasing the future stars of SA.
 
Matthew is best known as the talented drummer for The Graeme Watkins Project, but most recently is fast making a name for himself as “Dream Canvas Productions” - video production company he has recently formed - where he produces music videos and EPK’s for SA artists.  
 
The combination of Matthew and Gemma has led to the Born To Perform platform.
 
The inaugural event introducing the platform to the industry and public alike is the Born To Perform Gala Concert taking place at The Lyric Theatre, Gold Reef City on Wednesday, 1st July.
 
Gemma and Matt have searched all over Johannesburg for the most talented singer, dancers and actors in musical theatre and pop music to put together a variety style show inspired by the annual Royal Variety Show in England. These budding performers will be teaming up with some of SA’s favourite artists to show the world what South Africa has to offer.
 
Says Gemma; “We are lucky enough to have such strong industry support and have managed to gain assistance from some top industry players including Collett Dawson and Cito from The CoLab Network as well as seasoned pro’s such as Graeme Watkins (The Graeme Watkins Project) Nathan Ro (Lonehill Estate), Daniel Baron and Cito ( WONDERboom).”

She continues; “Having these artists performing with our young stars will not only give the youngsters an experience of a lifetime but also hopefully encourage other producers to create opportunities in the industry for them. “
 
The evening will be a dazzling display of song and dance provided by our leading stars alongside a wide array of budding talent.

Here are just a few of the expected highlights:

·        Graeme Watkins and Nathan Ro will be opening the show with a full swing section with over 60 children hand selected from the Johanessburg region in an explosion of timeless dance and song classics.
·        Cito will be performing one of his signature performances “Hallelujah” with the beautiful talented 10-year old Tylo Venter.
·        Daniel Baron will be performing a medley of recent popular radio songs with some upcoming music stars including Joshua Middleton, Lisa Kriel and Joshua Moreira.
·        For the musical theatre lovers we have excerpts from Hairspray, Jesus Christ Superstar, Matilda, Smash and Jekyll and Hyde accompanied by Rowan Bakker (musical director of Jersey Boys SA Tour, Mamma Mia and We Will Rock You.)
 
·      And many more great moments….
 
Follow Born to Perform:
YouTube: Born To Perform TV

Samsung Extends Its Brand Store Chain in South Africa

Samsung Electronics South Africa is opening a new Brand Store at the Menlyn Park Shopping Centre in Tshwane on 12 June 2015. In collaboration with retail partner, New World, the store will serve to enhance shopper experiences at the recently revamped complex.
 
Michelle Potgieter, Director of Corporate Marketing and Communications at Samsung Electronics South Africa, says: “Brand Stores inspire our consumers by providing direct access to our newest, cutting-edge technologies, enabling them to experience the devices first hand and gain further insight into the products from our team of knowledgeable and professional sales people and on site technicians.”
 
Samsung’s Brand Stores function as premium channels that offer the latest in mobile products, visual display, digital imaging, digital appliances and mobile communications, all in one location. Samsung has a number of Experience stores, Galaxy Stores for mobile products and solutions, as well as Customer Care Centers across the country. In 2014, Samsung opened a Galaxy Store in the Menlyn Park shopping centre and the addition of this new Brand Store will add more value to the consumer shopping experience in Tshwane. Each store offers demonstrations, expert advice and consultation, technical support and repair solutions, including a one-hour repair service on mobile devices.
 
The Menlyn Park Shopping Centre is a popular lifestyle destination, where a large shopping community enjoys premium dining, entertainment and leisure experiences. Mirroring Samsung’s own commitment to superb aesthetics and eco-friendly products, the centre boasts a combination of modern design architecture that utilises innovative green building material.
 
The Brand Stores complement an extensive partner network and serves to further grow the Samsung brand across the country. “This latest addition to our retail environment further demonstrates our commitment to delivering innovative products and solutions to our consumers, taking the total number of Brand Stores in South Africa to 17. Our consumers’ needs are ever-evolving and they continue to demand a more personal experience with their favourite SA electronics brand - voted as No.1 Electronics Goods, in the Sunday Times Top Brands awards. We continue to respond to this by opening new stores and increasing our footprint, to cater directly to these needs,” concludes Potgieter.

MORE TOP LOCAL ACTS CONFIRMED FOR MAIN STAGE AT ROCKING THE DAISIES 2015


Five of South Africa’s biggest artists have been added to the already stellar line-up for the Main Stage at the 10th annual Rocking the Daisies Festival this year! Jack Parow, aKING, Al Bairre, Majozi and Bed on Bricks will be joining Fokofpolisiekar and Bongeziwe Mabandla to compliment the international acts that so far include The Kooks, Milky Chance and The Cat Empire - with more acts to be announced soon.

Seed Experiences are delighted to introduce our very own Seed Experiences App for both iOS and Android users. As an exclusive launch special – Seed Experiences are offering Phase Three Rocking the Daisies tickets for R850*, if purchased directly through the Seed Experiences app only! Search for 'Seed Experiences’ in your app store, download the app, and get priority and exclusive access to artists releases, event updates, ticket and merchandise specials, competitions, meet and greets and much more!

Download the app here:



*App deal ends 3 July or while stocks last.

Otherwise #RTD2015 Phase Three tickets are on sale from today for R950 at www.seedtickets.co.za

Huawei Culture Club presents The Rocking the Daisies’ Electronic Dome, the second-largest stage at Rocking the Daisies that will host some of the festival’s biggest local and international artists. PHFAT, the massively popular SA rap duo and the first of many incredible artists to be announced, has risen in popularity and demand for their energetic and engaging live performance continues to grow. Rocking the Daisies and Huawei Culture Club will be announcing more electronic acts very soon so stay tuned!

Campers who are interested in buying tickets for a more exclusive camping experience, can still get the Daisies Plus tickets at R1800 (excl. booking fee) or upgrade their normal festival tickets at http://nue.so/e5emy5.

Walking the Daisies and Cycling the Daisies submissions will be opening next week. Keep up to date with all announcements and news by visiting our website www.rockingthedaisies.co.za or follow us on Facebook.

Facebook:           /rockingthedaisiesfestival

Twitter:                @RockingtheDaisy

Instagram:          /rockingthedaisies

YouTube:             /RockingTheDaisiesTV

#RTD2015

#DECADEOFDAISIES

All ticket phases are valid for the full festival experience from 1 – 4 October 2015 at the epic Cloof Wine Estate in Darling. *Prices exclude booking fees, which include charges for the IT services, credit card/ bank related charges, fraud prevention, security control and other administrative fees related to the advanced festival ticketing management system. This only applies to online sales and does not apply to the cash sale tickets. Get your festival tickets today at www.seedtickets.co.za

For any ticketing queries and support please contact tickets@weareseed.co.za.

Cazz returns Stronger


Stronger follows the release of Cazz’s debut single Tipsy which launched her as an incredible new female talent in the SA music scene. Just like Tipsy, the new single Stronger was also co-written, produced and recorded by 2015 SAMA-nominee, Howie Combrink at his studio The Hit Lab.
 
Listening to the lyrics, Stronger celebrates a power that’s in all of us. “Stronger is about letting go of what others tell you to be and how to live your life, as well as what they think of you. It’s about moving forward from that and becoming a stronger person, a person who stands for what they believe in and lives their life to the fullest regardless of what others say. It’s about being free,” explains Cazz.
 
Here’s the SoundCloud link to listen to Stronger: www.soundcloud.com/cazzofficial/stronger
 
Stronger is also available for download on SA iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/za/album/stronger/id1002861795?i=1002861800
 
When asked about the inspiration behind the song, Cazz responds by saying “I was inspired by the current movement for women's empowerment, so this is essentially my girl power song!”
 
Cazz is not looking to be compared to anyone. Her funky-jazzy-pop singles places her in a league of her own.
 
22 year old Cazz has been working hard at perfecting her art over the past 7 years. She’s realised that success is not possible without hard work. Constantly performing at shows and making time to be in studio to write and record with Combrink, she’s working towards releasing her debut album in September of this year.
 
Cazz is also excited to make her debut at Oppikoppi this year! “It's been a dream come true for my band and myself. We absolutely cannot wait to shake it in the dust!” exclaims an excited Cazz.
 
Quickly cementing herself as one of the top new female artists in SA music, Cazz is excited for all the great success still to come.
 
Follow Cazz online!
 
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/CazzOfficial
Twitter - @CazzOfficial
Instagram - http://instagram.com/cazzofficial
http://www.cazzofficial.com/

Building Sustainable Solutions for a Green Future

Finding sustainable solutions to the challenges that we face in the modern world is becoming an increasingly important component of any business strategy. Samsung Electronics South Africa understands that innovation in products needs to take into account the wider surroundings and any potential impact.
 
Samsung’s Sustainability Report 20141 examines this crucial part of its broader commitment to corporate citizenship. The company’s Green Management philosophy prioritises the future health of people and the planet, whilst mandating green responsible practices throughout its operations.
 
“To date, Samsung has invested1 $US6.3 billion into these efforts and this has resulted in a 50 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and over 3, 000 third-party verified product environmental certifications,” says Michael McKechnie, Divisional Head for Digital Appliances at Samsung SA.
 
According to McKechnie, the company received 31 green technology certificates in 2013 for product energy efficiency improvement, resource conservation and protection of natural habitats. One of these is the RoHS Technology Certification (Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive) that had been awarded to Samsung air-conditioners for the company’s commitment to minimising the use of toxic elements such as mercury, lead and cadmium.
 
Samsung is committed to establishing total air solutions for air-conditioners by expanding from residential to commercial areas and shifting focus from the cooling of air to the improvement of indoor air quality.
 
On the issue of energy efficiency, which is particularly relevant in light of the current load shedding taking place in South Africa, Samsung’s air-conditioners provide a truly innovative solution. The DVM S centralised air solutions system boasts high energy efficiency through the use of vapour injection for a more seamless flow of refrigerant and improved cooling and heating performance, while the eco-friendly design ensures a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions.
 
 
The air management packages created by Samsung are built on the PlanetFirst Initiative conceptualised by the organisation. The Eco-Design process ensures each new product is evaluated against specific parameters in order to ensure it is eco-friendly and keeps the brand on track when assessing the ecological influence. As part of this programme there is the Eco-Partner Certification Programme, which determines the credentials of suppliers’ raw materials and production processes. Samsung’s Smart air-conditioner is an example of how this strategy is being deployed by utilising Smart technology to automatically manage temperature and power and ensure higher usage efficiencies.
 
Samsung’s selection of consumer products within the Digital Air Solutions (DAS) Eco-Living range, which was established in 2011, delivers smart and environmentally aware products to the South African consumer.
 
“This is particularly relevant in light of recent changes to the South African legislative landscape, such as the introduction of Carbon Tax and the banning of R22CFC base gas. These are designed to protect consumers and the planet, ensuring that products and organisations are working towards a cleaner and healthier South Africa. We have already eliminated the use of R22CFC in our range and focused on innovation to reduce emissions and drive efficiencies,” says McKechnie.
 
“The air-conditioning units in the DAS Eco-Living range of products use less power, protect the internal milieu from diseases and save substantially on energy, all while being internationally recognised as leading products in the air-conditioning market,” he concludes.

Samsung Expands ‘Level’ Series of Wireless Smart Audio Products

Samsung Electronics South Africa, announced two new additions to its Level series of smart Bluetooth audio products: Samsung Level On Wireless and Samsung Level Link. Designed for music lovers seeking to pair excellent audio quality with sleek design, Samsung Level On Wireless headphones incorporate the latest technology to offer top quality sound in an impeccable package. On the other hand, the Samsung Level Link seamlessly transforms traditional audio products into wireless solutions, using Bluetooth technology. These new devices will be available in South Africa at the end of May 2015 and offer easy access through a customisable mobile application.
 
“With the Samsung Level series, we have combined our industry-leading technology and design expertise to offer users the best possible audio experience,” said Craige Fleischer, Director of Integrated Mobility at Samsung Electronics South Africa. “The Samsung Level On Wireless and Level Link is built on Samsung’s longstanding heritage of innovation and a dedication to expand our range of audio accessories that deliver organic sound quality, superior comfort, portability and style.”
 
Level On Wireless
Samsung Level On Wireless headphones feature circular ear pads producing a sleek, sophisticated look and feel. Equipped with six built-in microphones, the headphones feature Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) to accurately map surrounding sounds for a clearer and uninterrupted audio experience. A dual-layered diaphragm system helps to suppress excessive vibration, reducing noise and enabling the headphones to reproduce rich, balanced sound across a wide range of frequencies.
 
Level On Wireless supports an easy-to-use touch pad that allows users to activate and adjust a variety of features such as S Voice, volume, as well as play, pause or skip tracks – all without touching the controls of the paired device. The headphones are also equipped with a unique Sound Sharing function, so users can seamlessly share their favorite tunes with other Level On Wireless users.
 
Level Link
Samsung Level Link uses Bluetooth connectivity to render a range of traditional audio devices completely wireless. Users simply connect Level Link to earphones, headphones, a TV, a set of speakers or hi-fi system with aux-in cable and then pair it to a Bluetooth-enabled device to enjoy the same high-quality sound they get from traditional audio devices. Level Link provides wireless connectivity in both Send and Receive modes with a simple switch button. Users can also stream audio to two Bluetooth-enabled devices at once, making it possible to instantly share tunes with friends. The Level Link’s aptX Low Latency codec provides fast audio conversion, enabling users to watch videos without encountering sound lags. 
 
The Samsung Level On Wireless and Level Link are available through Samsung Experience stores, leading retailers and local operators. Full details and product images are available at www.samsungmobilepress.com
 
RRP:
Level On Wireless: R2899
Level Link: R899

Thursday, 4 June 2015

LIFE IN COLOR, World’s Largest Paint Party, To Launch in Johannesburg in September

Life In Color infuses electronic music's top DJs, world class production, unique and stunning character performers, and a custom built paint delivery system. A countdown to the paint blast creates one of the most high energy and unforgettable experiences in the entertainment industry.
 
In 2013, the tour reached over 25 countries, with a plan to expand the following year.  At that point, headlining DJs had included Afrojack, Axwell. Alleso, Benny Benassi, Chuckie, R3hab, etc. Regular features in shows beyond paint blasts included aerial acts, stilt walkers, contortionists, and fire shows. In 2013, Life in Color began to hold larger music festival events, featuring multiple stages and a larger line-up.
 
In 2014, Life in Color festival was expanded to two days and received a total attendance of 60,000. The event was headlined by Adventure Club, Borgore, The Chainsmokers, Diplo, Kaskade, Nervo and Madeon, among others, and also featured an attempt to set a Guinness World Record for the ‘Most people covered in paint at one time’.
 
On Saturday the 5th of September the JHB Expo Centre, Nasrec, will be transformed into a paint and musical paradise.  
 
Life In Color World Tour Trailer SOUTH AFRICA 2015: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fLBOu7uqh3s
 
Tickets go on sale on Friday 5th of June at http://spicedproductions.co.za/ and artist announcements to follow.
 
Sat, 5 September 2015: Life In Color South Africa - Johannesburg
Venue: JHB Expo Centre, Nasrec - Cnr Nasrec & Rand Show road, Johannesburg
Event Starts: 7pm
Ticket Prices: all pricing excludes booking fee
 
General: 
Early Bird: R299
Phase 1: R399
Final Phase: R499
 
VIP:
Early Bird: R499
Phase 1: R599
Final Phase: R699
 
VVIP: R2000 
 
 
 

LIFE IN COLOR, World’s Largest Paint Party, To Launch in Johannesburg in September

Life In Color infuses electronic music's top DJs, world class production, unique and stunning character performers, and a custom built paint delivery system. A countdown to the paint blast creates one of the most high energy and unforgettable experiences in the entertainment industry.
 
In 2013, the tour reached over 25 countries, with a plan to expand the following year.  At that point, headlining DJs had included Afrojack, Axwell. Alleso, Benny Benassi, Chuckie, R3hab, etc. Regular features in shows beyond paint blasts included aerial acts, stilt walkers, contortionists, and fire shows. In 2013, Life in Color began to hold larger music festival events, featuring multiple stages and a larger line-up.
 
In 2014, Life in Color festival was expanded to two days and received a total attendance of 60,000. The event was headlined by Adventure Club, Borgore, The Chainsmokers, Diplo, Kaskade, Nervo and Madeon, among others, and also featured an attempt to set a Guinness World Record for the ‘Most people covered in paint at one time’.
 
On Saturday the 5th of September the JHB Expo Centre, Nasrec, will be transformed into a paint and musical paradise.  
 
Life In Color World Tour Trailer SOUTH AFRICA 2015: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fLBOu7uqh3s
 
Tickets go on sale on Friday 5th of June at http://spicedproductions.co.za/ and artist announcements to follow.
 
Sat, 5 September 2015: Life In Color South Africa - Johannesburg
Venue: JHB Expo Centre, Nasrec - Cnr Nasrec & Rand Show road, Johannesburg
Event Starts: 7pm
Ticket Prices: all pricing excludes booking fee
 
General: 
Early Bird: R299
Phase 1: R399
Final Phase: R499
 
VIP:
Early Bird: R499
Phase 1: R599
Final Phase: R699
 
VVIP: R2000 
 
 
 

Samsung Offers Exceptional Value for Money with Extended

Samsung Electronics South Africa has extended its battery warranty period for mobile phones from six to twelve months for newly purchased handsets. This amendment to its service means that Samsung customers are now offered peace of mind for even longer, at no additional cost.
 
The extension in Samsung’s warranty period comes as it has just launched its new flagship smartphones, the Galaxy S6 and S6 edge, both of which have a non-removable battery. The twelve-month warranty period is valid on any new purchase of the latest Samsung flagship smartphones, such as the Galaxy A-Series, the Galaxy S6 and S6 edge, as well as the Galaxy Note4.
 
“As with all other parts, consumers need to acknowledge that should they use a counterfeit battery or one that is not Samsung approved, they will forfeit their battery warranty”, says Richard Chetty, Service Director at Samsung Electronics South Africa
 
In addition, Samsung’s ADH repair is a premium offering which gives consumers more benefits on selected Samsung Smartphone devices within 12 months on the latest available Galaxy flagship range of handsets.
 
“This offering is part of Samsung’s ongoing commitment to providing a world-class service to consumers thus giving them continuous support on their mobile smartphones”, concludes Chetty.
 
All Samsung products are covered by a full two year manufacturer's warranty. For more information on Samsung Electronics South Africa’s Warranty Policies, please visit:
 
Terms and Conditions Apply.

BRITISH ROCKERS THE KOOKS ADDED TO ROCKING THE DAISIES 2015 LINE-UP

One of this year’s most requested acts by festival fans, The Kooks, return to South Africa to perform their first public performance on the Main Stage at the 10th annual Rocking the Daisies Festival this year!
The celebrated group graced our beautiful shores in 2013 as part of an exclusive brand campaign to a select few who were lucky enough to get tickets – and they were met with rave reviews – but left many fans distraught about missing out.
The British indie rockers are the latest international group confirmed as part of a stellar line-up at South Africa’s premiere eco-friendly Music and Lifestyle Festival happening from the 1st to the 4th of October this year at Cloof Wine Estate in Darling.
In the months following the release of their latest critically acclaimed album, ‘Listen’, The Kooks have been enjoying a string of sold-out tour dates, confirming their status as one of the best live bands around.
‘Listen’ comes after a three-year hiatus and represents a bold change from their very distinct alternative, indie-rock sound.  Grounded in African funk and produced by young hip-hop pioneer Inflo, it has been labelled as the ‘album of their lives’.
Speaking about the album, frontman Pritchard says: "To me this album is about pure expression. Even the way we made the album felt fresh. We were really listening to what was going on around us, picking up ideas. The whole thing was much more natural."
The Kooks are: Luke Pritchard - vocals and guitar; guitarist Hugh Harris; bassist Pete Denton and drummer Alexis Nunez.
The Kooks compliment an international line-up that so far also includes German duo Milky Chance and Australian darlings, The Cat Empire. Local support acts Bongeziwe Mabandla, Fokofpolisiekar and PHAT have also been confirmed, with many more acts to be announced soon.
Phase Two of Rocking the Daisies ticket sales are still available to the public at R850* a ticket. Phase Three of ticket sales will open on 10 June with tickets on sale for R950*; however if Phase Two tickets sell out before this date then Phase Three will automatically kick in. Click here to get your festival tickets now:  http://nue.so/e5emy5
Rocking the Daisies is proud to introduce Mobicred – a new payment option and an industry first that will allow festival goers to buy their tickets from R83 per month. The exclusive initiative by Seed Experiences and Nutickets does not require fans to have a credit card, just a simple sign-up procedure with a 24hour approval period followed by easy, minimum monthly instalments via debit order. To buy Rocking the Daisies tickets on the Mobicred payment plan, go to  http://mobicred.co.za/nutickets/
There is also good news for Glampers who have missed out on the sold-out Heartbreak Motel accommodation option: Based on popular demand, the festival has created a (limited) Daisies Plus exclusive camping area that includes:
•             A festival ticket
•             A separate and convenient festival entrance, right by the camping zone
•             A separate parking area, right by the camping zone
•             Access controlled private camping
•             An exclusive bar facility in the campsite
•             An exclusive lounge/chill area in the campsite
•             Exclusive premium ablutions
Campers will still be required to bring their own tents and camping equipment, as this is not included. The total cost is R1800 (excl. booking fee). Festival ticket holders who would like to upgrade to Daisies Plus can do so via http://nue.so/e5emy5.
More international and local artist announcements, Campervan, Walking the Daisies and Cycling the Daisies ticketing information will be announced in the upcoming weeks.
All ticket phases are valid for the full festival experience from 1 – 4 October 2015 at the epic Cloof Wine Estate in Darling. *Prices exclude booking fees, which include charges for the IT services, credit card/ bank related charges, fraud prevention, security control and other administrative fees related to the advanced festival ticketing management system. This only applies to online sales and does not apply to the cash sale tickets. 
For any ticketing queries and support please contact tickets@weareseed.co.za.
Submissions for local artists will close on Saturday, 30 May. Artist and Media submissions at www.rockingthedaisies.com
Facebook:           /rockingthedaisiesfestival
Twitter:                @RockingtheDaisy
Instagram:          /rockingthedaisies
YouTube:             /RockingTheDaisiesTV
#RTD2015
Johannesburg fans can catch The Kooks, Milky Chance and The Cat Empire Live at the Vodacom In the City festival at the iconic Zoo Lake on Sunday, 4 October. Visit www.vitc.co.za for more information.
Vodacom In the City
Facebook: /IntheCityJHB 


Twitter: @IntheCityJHB
Instagram: /IntheCityJHB