Ending off Rhodes University’s third Anti Alcohol-abuse Week, Dean of Students Prof Vivian de Klerk hosted Viv’s Variety Show, a veritable spectacle of song, dance, drama and music which was performed by Rhodes staff and students on Friday evening.
With the R5 tickets sold out, the Guy Butler Auditorium at the 1820 Settlers Monument was jammed full of Rhodes students, staff and Grahamstown residents, eagerly anticipating the 23 performances to come.
These included singer Sikho Mgweba, guitarist Phillip Moffett and singer Danielle Bowler who all received standing ovations.
Head of the Geology department, Dr Steve Prevec and Larry Strelitz, the Deputy Dean of Humanities and a lecturer of Journalism and Media Studies both showed off their musical prowess on guitar and Prof Pat Terry let his talent for singing truly shine.
The more humorous staff performances included the VC’s Vuvuzela Ensemble and the uninhibited Deans and Directors 60s-themed performance.
Pianist Terrence Marais who completed his Masters in Music last year was also invited to take part with his breathtaking performance clearly indicating why he has already achieved such high acclaim.
Among the other musical acts were Lucy Kruger, Madele Viljoen and David Knowles who performed in a sensational collaboration of acoustic guitar and song, and Life of Riley with their fun lyrics and easy listening.
The Rhodes University Chamber Choir, Circus Society, Student Sports Council and SRC also represented their societies in the show.
De Klerk herself proved to be a highly entertaining and humorous MC for the evening with Rhodes SRC President Eric Ofei, in the perfect supporting role.
Story by Nikki Brand
Photograph Caption: Professor Jonathan Campbell-Deans and Directors By Desiree Schirlinger
Article appeared first in Grocott’s Mail, 23 February 2010, available online here
Photo Gallery: Viv's Variety Concert, available here