South Africa’s one and only exclusive drumming extravaganza, the Rolling Rhythms Festival, beats its way into its fourth year from August 18 to 19 at the AT Centre – already established as a well-known institution among South African percussion addicts.

The theme of this year ís festival is inter-cultural fusion. The line-up will feature: Interitmo Drummers, Rich Ellis Project, Pregalathan’s Garlands of Rhythm, Mbongeni’s African Drummers, Umgqumo we-Afrika. It will also offer two special features: St Mary’s Drum Ensemble (which also includes Gumboot Dance) and bassist supreme, Bongani Sokhela doing a more rhythmic percussive technique with his instrument.

Live DJ’s will be at the BAT Centre working the decks while fire performers present their dazzling displays on the harbour wall.

With more working percussion groups and drum circles than anywhere else in South Africa and a cultural landscape filled with many diverse rhythmic traditions, Durban is a true mecca for percussion addicts. It is fitting that the city should be home to this much-anticipated event which highlights both local and international rhythmic talent alike.

Rolling Rhythms 2000 takes place at the BAT Centre on the Victoria Embankment in the Small Craft Harbour on August 18 at 19h30 and August 19 at 15h00 and 19h30. Tickets are R30 (R25 for groups of 10 or more) through TicketWeb (service charges apply).

Prizes for the show have been donated by: Coastal Music, Musikland Berea Centre, Rhythmic Beat, Field of Rhythm, Guiseppe’s Trattoria, and Beach Hotel. Ticketholders will be entitled to 50% discount to the Rich Ellis Drum Circle which takes place every Tuesday evening from 19h30 to 21h30 at the BAT Cafe in the BAT Centre.

More details from (031) 332-0451; Rich Ellis on 083 412-9746 or (031) 332-2261; Mike Mazzoni on (031) 312-0626 or Arjun Vinodrai on (031) 332-0451