DON’T you feel like you’ve scored when you attend a show that has a number of your favourite headliner acts all on one night? That’s what the annual Cansa Night of 100 Stars fund-raising ball offers, and judging from the line-up, the event looks set to be a star-studded affair. Brought to you in aid of the Cancer Association of South Africa, the event features South Africa’s cream of the crop.
The prestigious event on September 1 at SunCoast Casino unites stars in the name of charity with all proceeds going towards cancer research projects and awareness campaigns.
Besides being treated to some of South Africa’s hottest performers, there will be a three-course dinner during the spectacular showcase. This year, the stellar line-up includes 2012 SA Idols Winner Khaya Mthethwa; singer and actress Kate Normington; Ilse Klink; Mark Banks, Robert Whitehead and more.
In an interview with Tonight, the Regional Manager of Cansa, Cara Noble, chatted about the fund-raiser and how honoured they are to have received continued support from sponsors SunCoast, Night of 100 Stars producer Mark Hawkins, music director Shem Mahabeer, Black Coffee, and Functions for Africa.
She said: “It’s an extravaganza of African talent of stars from all over the country, Johannesburg and locals. It offers a variety of comedy, dance and music. It’s very special and the most amazing thing is that the stars find time in their busy schedule to do this show. Which is why it’s on a Monday evening because it’s convenient for them and they make it happen.”
Asked how the team makes each showcase different, she says: “This year we’ve upped our marketing and advertising and we’re looking forward to having a full house and all seats filled. But I think it’s different each year in terms of our creative background between the producer of the show, Mark Hawkins and owner of Functions for Africa, Paul Mann. So decor-wise and talent-wise, it’s always fresh and something interesting and new. It’s all about having some fun and making a difference at the same time. And SunCoast has been great. They back us every year and without them this wouldn’t be possible.”
On the programme for the evening, Noble says: “There are well-known comedians, actors and singers like Khaya Mthethwa, who is my personal favourite, and just a whole range of other stars who have done shows overseas. So it’s exciting. There’s a lot of everything and it’s amazing how they all come together for this show. Because as a performer, they may have lost a friend or a mum. You know, cancer affects us all even if you’re a star or just a normal person so it brings everyone together in such an amazing way. And the show is for the whole family. It has performances and dances and a variety so that every one can enjoy. And we’re trying to get business or corporates to book it for staff. And get more people to buy tables and focus and raise more money.”
It seems the show will be pulling out all the stops, treating audiences to an unforgettable night. So what can audiences expect from this glamorous extravaganza?
Noble says: “They are going to expect just an amazing event filled with South African talent. People get so (involved) with all the stuff happening overseas but we have amazing talent on our doorstep. And it’s time for people to experience that. We have it right here, so get ready and come join us with your best glitzy outfits.”
• Cansa Night of 100 Stars takes place on September 1 at SunCoast. Dress code for the night is glitz and glam. Tickets at Computicket are R500 or R5 000 per table, which includes a delectable three-course dinner and entertainment. For bookings or donations, call Cara at 031 205 9525 or visit suncoastcasino.co.za