You can’t choose your family. Unless you join the circus

Loading player...
Grabbing a vertical pole with hands stretched wide, Johannes ‘Timo’ Gunther braces himself and lifts his body parallel to the ground, forming a perfect human flag. Somewhere above him, Phelelani Ndrakrokra is suspended upside down, loving lifeBoth high-flying performers know what it means to fall.

Gunther, a pole acrobat, ran away from his Namibian home seeking a fresh start in Cape Town. Ndrakrokra, a wheel artist, was born to a single mother living on the streets. They both have found a home at Zip Zap Circus through its Dare to Dream project. The programme looks to help people from all walks of life realise their dreams through circus art.
Ndakroka and Gunther’s stories are representative of the possibilities contained when potential, opportunity and commitment meet. While Gunther has moved on from the circus today, Zip Zap gave both a home and an outlet, a way to experience the raw thrill of unfettered, synchronised movement.

I spoke to Roxy Mitchell, from Zip Zap about the family, the fun and how we can help! Listen here:
8 Oct 2020 English South Africa Relationships · Self-Improvement

Other recent episodes

Tunde Baiyewu from Lighthouse Family releases highly anticipated solo project

Tunde Baiyewu, the soulful voice behind the multi-platinum-selling Lighthouse Family, returns with a new, intimate project, Tunde & The Troubadours EP 1, releasing today, Friday November 1st. The Four-track EP is the first in a special series that delves into Tunde’s love for singer-songwriter music, particularly inspired by the 1970s…
23 Nov 2024 19 min

Petit Biscuit joins Danny Painter to chat about his new single!

Petit Biscuit is back in the spotlight with the upcoming release of his new album "Discipline". Having started his career at the age of 15, the French electro wunderkind has already conquered the world with his dream pop hits and captivating melodies. Following the worldwide success of his previous releases,…
10 Aug 2024 15 min

George Brown’s Legacy Lives On with Posthumous Single ‘What If

Reflecting on George's remarkable career, his widow, Hahn Brown, shares insights into his creative journey. "George was always immersed in music," she recalls. "He began writing for the band early in our relationship, but it wasn't until later that he pursued his solo work." Hahn describes George's songwriting as deeply…
10 Aug 2024 10 min

Craig Lucas spills the tea on his 'Red Flag'

Craig Lucas, the multi-talented singer-songwriter, is back with his latest single, ‘Falling in Love,’ a track that dives headfirst into the chaos of unrequited affection and the hilarity that ensues. This new release marks another milestone in Craig's impressive career, blending personal experiences with an infectious indie vibe. Craig explains…
6 Jul 2024 11 min

Ziggy Alberts releases emotionally charged new single ‘Outlaw’

Australian singer-songwriter Ziggy Alberts has today unveiled his latest single ‘Outlaw’. This emotionally charged track offers a candidly personal glimpse of Alberts' growth as both an artist and individual. 'Outlaw' is a poignant reflection on shedding societal expectations and embracing one's true self. Alberts shares, " This song is about…
6 Jul 2024 12 min