Press & Media

Interviews, reviews, and coverage of Marcus Desando's work in opera, cultural policy, and international arts leadership.

Directorial Work

Five:20 - Operas Made in South Africa

2010

A compilation of three short operas: 'HANI', 'SAARTJIE', and 'TRONKVOËL'. Directed by Marcus Desando for the UCT Opera School.

Four:30 - Bessie: The Blue-Eyed Xhosa

2016

Full production from the UCT Opera School's 'Four:30' series. Directed by Marcus Desando, conducted by Kamal Khan. World Premiere.

Don Giovanni (UCT Opera School) - Part 1

2008

Part 1 of the UCT Opera School production of Mozart's Don Giovanni, directed by Marcus Desando. Features the 'Catalogue Aria'.

Don Giovanni (UCT Opera School) - Part 2

2008

Part 2 of the UCT Opera School production of Mozart's Don Giovanni, directed by Marcus Desando.

Bessie: The Blue-Eyed Xhosa (Excerpts)

2015

Excerpts from the world premiere of the opera by Angelique Mouyis (libretto by Mkhululi Mabija), directed by Marcus Desando.

HANI (Chamber Opera Excerpts)

Opera

Excerpts from the chamber opera 'Hani', composed by Bongani Ndodana-Breen with libretto by Mfundi Vundla. Directed by Marcus Desando.

Don Giovanni: Batti, Batti

2008

Magdalene Minnaar performing 'Batti, Batti' from Mozart's Don Giovanni. Directed by Marcus Desando, conducted by Kamal Khan.

Don Giovanni: Vedrai Carino

2008

A performance of 'Vedrai Carino' from Mozart's Don Giovanni, directed by Marcus Desando. Featuring Magdalene Minnaar.

Cantiamo Mzansi Opera Celebration

2020

A celebration of South African opera singers, directed by Marcus Desando at the Joburg Theatre.

Performance Highlights

I Pagliacci - Spier Festival

1998

Marcus Desando performing as Beppe (Arlecchino) in Ruggiero Leoncavallo's 'I Pagliacci'. Recorded live at the Spier Amphitheatre.

The Phantom of the Opera - Prima Donna

Seoul Tour

Performance from the World Tour in Seoul. Marcus Desando performs as part of the ensemble in this preview night recording.

Interviews

Studio ZAM: In Conversation

2022

An in-depth interview discussing the Prince Claus Fund's strategy and the philosophy of Ubuntu in arts leadership.

Articles & Reviews

Interview

April 13, 2021

Artistic Director Marcus Desando on Presenting Second Edition of CANTIAMO

BroadwayWorld • By Lindsay Kruger

"My directorial approach of CANTIAMO is very simple: the voice has to take center stage. My job is to create a wonderful and nurturing experience for the artists while also creating a visual and audio spectacle for the audience."

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Feature

June 22, 2022

In conversation with Marcus Tebogo Desando

ZAM Magazine • By Augustina Austin

"As a 'driving force in the development of young South African artists and aspiring artistic entrepreneurs,' the new director of the Prince Claus Fund is, in the words of chairman Ila Kasim, 'the embodiment of the spirit' of her organisation."

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Review

October 24, 2020

Cantiamo – Resounding Return, Or The Stage Is Alive With Desando Music

Bruce Dennill • By Bruce Dennill

"Cantiamo is a satisfying, soulful return to a sacred space. The cast manage to avoid grinning like goofy schoolkids at the thrill of being back in the spotlight, bringing substantial ardour to their performances."

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News

February 29, 2024

Prince Claus Awards to artists from Turkey

Bianet • By Bianet Reporter

"Marcus Tebogo Desando, the director of the Prince Claus Fund, reflects on his visit to İstanbul to meet recipients of the Prince Claus Awards."

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Announcement

July 3, 2017

ACT announces appointment of new CEO

South African Cultural Observatory • By SACO

"The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) is pleased to announce that artist and arts manager, Marcus Desando, has been appointed as its new CEO."

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Media Inquiries

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