Right on Cue

In this, the final episode of Right on Cue 2026, we hear about the Soweto String Quartet, the acrobatic Wolf Circus and a Brazilian family invites us into their home for a traditional meal. Then the various members of the Right on Cue team tell us about their best moments at this year's Festival. Enjoy, and thank-you for listening - we hope to have you back next year. Cue Radio on RMR

If you like music, this episode is for you. If you like jazz music, this episode is especially for you. We hear about the the kids who love jazz and Gabisile Motuba, popularly known as Gabi, tells us how she found her voice in the world of jazz. Cue Radio on RMR

For those who don't know, ASSITEJ is all about theatre for young audiences. It's about giving young people a platform to tell their stories, to find their voices, and to show the world what they are capable of. The work they're doing at Festival 2026 is spectacular! Cue Radio on RMR

In this episode we listen to music of the marimbas and we laugh out loud with stand up comedy. We dance to the beats of gumboot rhythms of Marimba Melodika at the Great Hall on campus and then move on to the Graham Hotel where Stuart Taylor shares his laughs and lessons with audiences. Cue Radio on RMR

Amazwi Museum hosts the Literature Festival Children's Corner, bringing together people from across the literacy and storytelling sector to play, learn, and read with children. If you're queer, faithful, questioning, or just trying to figure out what it means to be a decent human being, remember this: You don't have to choose between who you are and what you believe. Cue Radio on RMR

Massively talented dancers perform in a high energy show interpreting the life story of Lee-Ché Janecke. A once-in-a-lifetime experience of Manana’s production called Pulchritudinous: The beauty of the journey. Ukhumbule kalouka uManana is the 2026 Standard Bank Young Artist winner for Music. And visual artist, Bronwyn Katz, goes in search of her long lost heritage. Cue Radio on RMR

A Childhood in Chalk explores the period of school boycotts in Makhanda and haunting physical theatre in Igazi lika Nina reveals the silent battles of a young orphan. It explores the themes of abuse and the need for young children to stand up for themselves. Ingrid Schudel makes art with the dregs of her coffee. Cue Radio on RMR

In this edition we talk to parents who need to do something with their children. What can Festival offer to keep your young ones amused? The conversation is about child-minders, face-painting, dodgems and child safety. Hit the 'play' button Cue Radio on RMR

Right on Cue - Episode 3. Our presenter Asithandile Muyongo reflecting on everything we've covered today, from uMsaki, Liminal and Children of the Buffalo Thorn Tree. He is reminded of why this festival matters. It's not just about entertainment. It's also about connection. It's about seeing ourselves reflected on stage. It's about discovering new perspectives and feeling seen, heard, and understo...

Security is taken very seriously at the National Arts Festival - the police and the Acting Mayor of Makana give their assurances. And we hear the some opinions on how the first days of Festival are working out. Cue Radio on RMR

CEO of the National Arts Festival, Monica Newton, gives us a rundown of what thrills and frills we can expect at this year's edition of Festival. Onika Maxakato tells us about the two shows where he will be doing the drumming and Steven Lang has some tips on enjoying Festival on a budget. Cue Radio on RMR

In today’s episode of Right on Cue, we offer you a variety of performances that bring powerful stories and sound to life. We have Passage: A Boy’s Journey to Manhood which presents a raw take on coming-of-age, while The Possible Grave explores family, memory, and reconciliation through the story of two estranged brothers. Molora on the other hand, delivers a gripping portrayal of generational trau...

In this episode of Right on Cue, we journey into how art acts as a vessel for intergenerational storytelling and the transmission of culture through music. We begin with Sweetie Darling, a classical romcom brought to life by the versatile Bongani Mbatha. Next, we have UNSUNG, a moving musical theatre production from Buffalo City, blending choreography, music, and true stories to honour one of Afri...

This episode dives deep into the emotional and cultural threads of the National Arts Festival in Makhanda. Hosted by Mila Madlingozi, it features a rich mix of storytelling, performance, and reflection. Highlights: Aaah Nguberhamba: A story exploring what happens when one is pulled away from their roots. Comedian Ntobeko Ximba: Uses comedy to tackle hard truths and personal experiences. Language L...

Welcome to Episode 7 of Right on Cue, your backstage pass to the boldest and most beautiful moments at the National Arts Festival in Makhanda! In this jam-packed episode: We kick off our multi-day feature on the National Youth Jazz Festival, with saxophone vibes and a sit-down with director Allen Webster. Step into the mind-bending world of magician Brendon Peel, whose journey began right here at...

This is the 6th episode of Right on Cue, and today we are going back in time as we look at the National Arts Festival as a celebration of history. We chat to artistic director Debbie Turner who has been showcasing at the national arts festival for 30 years. Furthermore, we bring you the rich history of healing in African medicine, a review on plays that focus on stories never told and ones that co...

This is the 5th edition of Right on Cue, and we are bringing the vibe, the glitz, glamour and everything in between. I want you to sit down, sip your tea, and get ready because today, we’re honouring the Legends of the Eastern Cape. In this episode, we’re diving into the stories of two icons: Dr John Kani and Dr Jerry Mofokeng waMakhetha. But it doesn’t stop there. We’re not just celebrating legen...

In this vibrant episode of Right On Cue, host Asithandile Mayongo takes listeners into the heart of the 51st National Arts Festival in Makhanda. From enjoying the festival on a budget to exclusive interviews with Mayor Yandiswa Vara and choreographer Mninawa Mangweni, the show dives into art that celebrates culture, identity, and innovation. We explore emotional productions like The Garden Boy and...

This 3rd episode of Right On Cue transports listeners into the energy of the second day of the National Arts Festival in Makhanda, celebrating the vibrant world of theatre, dance, and more. Highlights: The SAPS (South African Police Service) held a media briefing about their operational plan to ensure festivalgoers' safety. Municipal Readiness Makana Municipality shared its plans to address servic...

The 2nd episode of Right On Cue, hosted by Senkosi Angela Sgulugulu (Sen-Sunshine), focuses on the vibrant atmosphere of Makhanda during the official first day of the National Arts Festival. The episode highlights: Accessibility – explores how the festival is made inclusive for differently abled attendees. Spirit Festival – Lalelisile Mncwabe introduces a parallel, faith-centered event of music, p...

The first episode of Right On Cue dives into the National Arts Festival (NAF) held annually in Makhanda, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The episode introduces the festival’s format. Highlights: Steven Lang discusses why people go through the effort and cost of attending the festival. Rucera Seethal, the Artistic Director of NAF, shares updates on the festival’s preparations. A preview of “Beyond the...