Collaboration has become a buzzword, although not everyone who uses it takes full advantage of the possibilities of working with a wide network. In contrast Hadedah, a Johannesburg based collective, is using this framework to deliver unique conceptual experiences. Their curated experimental events are not just feasts for the eyes and ears, but also for the taste buds. The flavour of their work was evidenced in the latest of the Well Spent Sunday series. Along with electronic sets from Hadedah members Leeu and Behr and new duo Rooiknek and Vox Portent, guests were offered a culinary mix of gourmet burgers and flatbreads.
The mix of great food, experimental beats and visual eye bombs is characteristic of the collective’s approach. With their first event being held in 2014 the core membership- Pebuh, Leeu, Behr and Polarimpala- combine food and music with costume making, stop motion film and art installations. These highly stylised happenings are accompanied by carefully thought-out advertising, with detailed stop animation short films being used to promote each. Rather than just another live show, the audience is made to feel like they are attending a never to be repeated novelty.
As a result the imaginative scope of each has grown. For instance, 2015’s Nerve took sit down eating to a sumptuous new level. The evening saw a five course meal served with live electronica, beautiful décor and installations. But the group puts as much emphasis on music as they do on eating. Last year they were involved in curating Churn festival. Described as a boutique mini- festival, and held in a disused dairy factory, it featured an eclectic line-up from Los Angeles scenester Daedalus to Durban qqom pioneers Rudeboyz. They also maintain a regular Soundcloud presence, provided mixes in conjunction with events.
In the next month they will be holding another Nerve, which promises to be an unmissable dining experience. Watch their website for more information on this sensory experiment.