The arts have the power to move us, but this November, they will also help change lives and keep dreams alive for the University of Johannesburg’s Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture’s deserving students.
Johannesburg, South Africa (29 October 2026) – Countless young people across our country envision the chapter of their lives where they go to university, study toward the career of their dreams, and proudly walk across the graduation stage before stepping out into the world. However, for so many, this dream remains out of reach due to the high cost of obtaining a higher education.
It is a struggle the University of Johannesburg’s Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture (FADA) understands and empathises with. For this reason, its annual Dean’s Concert has long been dedicated to raising funds for academically deserving FADA students facing financial challenges.
This November, talented youth and artists will take to the stage for an evening of compelling voices, expressive piano, and rich choral sound – not only to entertain, but to help deserving students secure a brighter future.
First presented in 2016, the Dean’s Concert supports the bursary fund established by accomplished baritone Professor Federico Freschi, Executive Dean of FADA, to help students with limited financial resources pursue their education.
UJ Arts & Culture presents the concert, and this year, Freschi joins acclaimed pianist Christopher Duigan and international guest soprano Angela Gilbert to lead the musical programme. Performing alongside them is the UJ Choir, under the direction of Sizwe Mondlane.
Together, they bring the intimacy of solo performance and the power of collective voices to an evening with a lasting purpose.
South African-born soprano Angela Gilbert brings an extensive international career to the UJ stage, while Duigan’s longstanding association with the Dean’s Concert adds a familiar musical presence to this collaboration.
Duigan, Freschi and Gilbert have all studied and worked together over many years, and it is fitting that, in celebrating a decade of student support, this concert also celebrates the incredible possibilities of creative collaboration that go beyond personal friendship and professional partnerships.
“Audiences can look forward to the intimacy of a solo voice, the dialogue between singer and pianist, and the thrilling sound of a choir,” says Duigan.
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“Bringing Angela, Federico and the UJ Choir together gives us wonderful scope for contrast and collaboration. We want audiences to experience the warmth, energy and emotion that make live music so rewarding.” That shared musical experience also brings artists, audiences, alumni and donors together to expand opportunities through creative education.
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“The future of work will demand greater creativity: the ability to imagine new possibilities, respond to complex challenges and reshape our world. Supporting creative education is an investment in that future. I invite our alumni, friends and business partners to join us for an evening of wonderful music and help these young people realise their potential.”
Donors, businesses and friends of the University are warmly invited to attend and make a donation on the evening. Each contribution helps academically deserving FADA students continue their studies and develop the skills to shape our creative future. Qualifying donations are eligible for a tax benefit.
FADA Dean’s Concert Details
Date: Saturday, 7 November 2026
Arrival: 17:30
The concert commences at 18:00.
Location: UJ Arts Centre, Keorapetse William Kgositsile Theatre
Auckland Park Kingsway Campus
Tickets can be purchased here
Sources: Supplied
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