The World Junior Championships of Performing Arts is to be held at the International Convention Centre (ICC), from August 30 to September 7, 2003. This announcement was made by Griff O’Neill, the president of the World Association of Talent, Modeling and Entertainment (WATME), who is based in Hollywood, Los Angeles. O’Neill stated that he had not decided on a venue until he walked into the ICC, Durban where he was greatly impressed with the facilities and the look of the venue.

ICC Durban’s CEO, Alex Gilbert, said that he was delighted to be hosting the Championships and added that construction of an extension project would be commencing in January 2003 to ensure the ICC was able to provide the multi-purpose, flexible type of facilities required for concerts and other entertainment events.

The World Championships of Performing Arts is the only official international competition for seasoned and up-and-coming performers and entertainers. Countries may only send delegates who have been screened and qualified for entry and it is a rare opportunity for a privileged few. The Championships have been divided into two divisions, junior and senior. South Africa has been granted the rights to hold the Junior World Championships for the next five years.

The Junior event is for ages 5 to 15 years and the Senior event, which takes place in Los Angeles, California from October 4 to 12, 2003, is for ages 16 years or older.

Mrs Carol MacNab, ICC Durban’s manager of marketing and sales (international), stated that the event was not only good news for ICC Durban but it also represented a wonderful network opportunity for the entire South African entertainment industry. Apart from the 2,500 anticipated participants from all over the world, more than 150 agents, directors, film producers, record companies and others from Hollywood and the worldwide entertainment industry will comprise the panel of judges and will be at both events.

For information regarding entry in either event, phone 082 235 2002 or 011 396-1780.