The National Arts Council of South Africa (NAC), in partnership with the Hong Kong Arts Development Council (HKADC), announced the second edition of Journey of Discovery on Tuesday, 23 September, a highly anticipated concert scheduled to take place at the esteemed Market Theatre in Johannesburg on 24 and 25 October 2025.
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This innovative cultural exchange was initiated following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the NAC and HKADC on 2 February 2024. It gained traction during the inaugural Hong Kong Performing Arts Expo (HKPAX) held from 14–18 October 2024, where musicians from South Africa and Hong Kong enthralled audiences with a distinctive co-created musical presentation.
As part of this continuing effort to promote indigenous music and honor cultural identities, the five South African musicians who performed at HKPAX alongside their Hong Kong colleagues will once again take the stage, this time on South African territory.
Creative and Production Team
Music Director: Ng Cheuk-yin
Musicians: (South Africa): Ayanda Jiya, Mbuzeni Duncan Mkhize, Natalie Rungan, Sky Dladla, Thandeka Mfinyongo
Musicians: (Hong Kong): Ngaiman, Jing Wong, Ma Wai Him
Producer: Kenny Chen
In collaboration with their partners in Hong Kong, these acclaimed musicians will showcase a groundbreaking, cross-cultural performance that connects continents through the medium of music.
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“Journey of Discovery is more than just a concert. It is a celebration of shared humanity, musical dialogue, and creative expression that transcends borders,” Mr Lebohang Mogoera, the Interim Chief Executive Officer of the NAC, said.
Through this partnership, the NAC persists in enhancing the global recognition of South African talent while emphasising the significance of cultural diplomacy and creative exchange, as explained by Mogoera.
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Ms. Pheon Tsang, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Arts Development Council, a statutory organisation created by the government to advance the arts in Hong Kong, also expressed her excitement:
“I am delighted to witness the fulfilment of this strategic partnership with the South African National Arts Council under the helm of Hong Kong Performing Arts Expo,” she enthused.
“It marks a meaningful step forward in deepening cultural exchange and mutual understanding through the arts. As we enter the second year of the Journey of Discovery concert series, I am confident it will be even more impactful as we proudly extend our artistic footprint onto the African continent,” she concluded.
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Hosting the concert will be the prestigious Market Theatre Foundation. Ms Tshiamo Mokgadi, CEO of Market Theatre Foundation, remarked:
“We are honoured to host an event of such calibre at the Market Theatre. This partnership reflects the power of the arts to transcend borders and connect communities. Our team is working to ensure that all preparations are in place to welcome both local and international guests for what promises to be a wonderful musical experience, shared across borders.”