Latoya Newman
DURBAN fashion designer Shiksha Premrajh steps on to the entertainment stage this Valentine’s Day with the inaugural Valentine’s Day Ball in Durban North.
Premrajh, the sister of writer and director Jithen Premrajh ( Love in a Pickle), has planned a Parisian-themed gala evening at the Durban North Conference Centre, featuring entertainers Angela Val Verde and Amanda Kunene.
Set in a Moulin Rouge theme, with French singers and waiters, flowing champagne and a three-course meal, Shiksha said the aim was to have locals claim their piece of Paris in true romantic style.
She explained how she had been motivated to arrange the event after hearing complaints from people about there being nothing “different” to do on Valentine’s Day.
“So I figured, why sit around and complain about the social scene, rather take action,” she said. “As for the Paris theme, I figured, who wouldn’t want to spend Valentine’s Day in the most romantic city in the world? However, not all of us are fortunate enough to be able to do that, so I’m bringing Paris to Durban… from the Eiffel Tower and love potions to the padlock love monument. The scene is set and this is definitely building up to be a night to remember.”
Commenting on the entertainment for the evening, she said: “Angela Val Verde is from California. She’s been here for the past two years. She has also been a great help in terms of helping put the show together.
“Clinton Philander is a well-known personality to theatregoers and is experienced in his field. He’s done shows at The Barnyard Theatre for 11 years and has sung with the likes of Stevie Wonder. Clinton is also going to be hosting his very own show, The Stars are out Tonight, at The Crown Theatre that launched at Durban North Conference Centre late last year, so we’re just getting started.”
She added that Amanda Kunene’s bubbly personality, powerful voice and willingness to do her best was why she had been picked for the event.
l Tickets: R225 a person for dinner and the show. Book at Computicket. Starts at 6.30pm. Call 031 563 9176.