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New Orleans - Fresh off the annual Essence Festival held over the 4th of July holiday weekend in New Orleans, organisers are now preparing for the festival's return to South Africa.
Essence on Thursday said the festival's Durban, South Africa, edition will take place from 26 October to 1 October, featuring Bishop T.D. Jakes, a talk-show host, entrepreneur and best-selling author based in Dallas. Essence magazine's editor-in-chief, Vanessa De Luca, says they'll release the rest of the lineup later.
"We're not ready to reveal the rest of the lineup but we'll be making more announcements in the future," De Luca said.
Just like the New Orleans festival, Essence Festival Durban will bring together international performers and speakers to entertain and inspire, as well as a host of local artists and experts. The event is comprised of nightly music concerts and a daily Empowerment Experience, offering workshops and seminars across various sectors, including development of women and youth in business.
De Luca said they are thrilled to be returning to South Africa for the second time.
"I think Durban has so much to offer," she said. "It is a beach destination and the vacation spot for the rest of South Africa. And, there's such a mix of global cultures. It's a nice melting pot."
Last year's inaugural Durban Festival drew more than 10,000 attendees and featured appearances by Steve Harvey, Phaedra Parks and singers Estelle, Kelly Price, NE-YO, Wizkid, Black Coffee and more.
New Orleans' 23rd annual event drew more than 470,000 attendees.
