On today’s Lunch Break on Lotus FM, we shine the spotlight on women in theatre — a force driving gender equality, diverse storytelling, and the dismantling of stereotypes. Through dialogue, music, and dance, these voices inspire others to pursue their artistic dreams and challenge societal norms.

Joining us is Marlene Le Roux, CEO of the Artscape Theatre and curator of the Artscape Women’s Humanity Festival. This festival champions human rights, addresses gender-based violence, and fosters a more compassionate society. Marlene takes us behind the scenes of this powerful programme and the transformative role of women in the arts.

This Mandela Month, the DO MORE FOUNDATION is taking bold steps to protect children’s futures and fight the impact of climate change. Their latest initiative focuses on creating climate-resilient Early Childhood Development centres in underserved communities — ensuring young learners have safe, sustainable spaces to grow and thrive. Joining us is Dr Jessica Ronaasen, Advocacy and Innovation Lead at the DO MORE FOUNDATION, to share more about this inspiring project, how it aligns with Madiba’s legacy, and how we can all get involved in making a difference.

On this episode of The Lunch Break with Varshan Sookhun on Lotus FM, we welcome celebrated South African author Elana Bregin, whose award-winning African-themed works — including The Red-haired Khumalo, The Boy From the Other Side, and The Kayaboeties — have captured the hearts of readers across the country.

Her writing spans genres, from children’s books to young adult fiction, adult novels, and narrative non-fiction. Now, she brings us her latest masterpiece, Station Life Repair, set in the vibrant and complex city of Durban. The novel explores the intricate intersections of lives, choices, and circumstances among its diverse characters.

Join us as Elana shares the inspiration, themes, and deep Durban connections behind her newest work.

On the Lunch Break with Varshan Sookhun on Lotus FM, we take a closer look at South Africa’s SME landscape with David Morobe, Executive General Manager for Impact Investing at Business Partners Limited.

As the 37th annual Entrepreneur of the Year Awards kicks off, David unpacks the renewed confidence in the SME sector, the impact of the National Small Enterprise Amendment Act, and the vital role of both private and public sectors in supporting entrepreneurs.

He also discusses how businesses can enter the awards, what opportunities 2025 holds for SMEs, and what South African entrepreneurs are hoping to see from global platforms like G20and Startup20. Plus, we explore trade relations between South Africa and the USA — and how they can be balanced to benefit local businesses.

As temperatures drop and the roads get slick, winter driving in South Africa presents a unique set of challenges — and opportunities. On today's lifestyle feature, we’re joined by motoring expert Michael Pashut — CEO of ChangeCars, presenter of All Things Motoring, and founder of SA’s first Afrikaans digital car trading platform.

Michael shares essential tips on how to stay safe on the road this winter, plus expert advice on protecting your vehicle’s resale value through smart seasonal prep — also known as winterproofing. Whether you're a daily commuter or weekend road-tripper, this one’s a must-listen!

On The Lunch Break with Varshan Sookhun, we continue our deep dive into the powerful storytelling emerging from Zimbabwe’s complex political past. Earlier this week, we explored the haunting theatrical journey of Breakfast with Mugabe with Craig Jackson. Today, we shift gears to the silver screen.

Joining us is multi-award-winning actor and comedy sensation Rob Van Vuuren, who plays Tim Fuller in the internationally acclaimed film Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight. Premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and now making its South African debut, the film captures Zimbabwe’s transition from colonial rule to independence—told through the innocent and perceptive eyes of a child.

Rob speaks candidly about working alongside a stellar team including Anele Mdoda, Trevor Noah, and director Embeth Davidtz, who also stars as his on-screen wife. We unpack the emotional and historical layers of the film’s title, the generational impact of racism, and the unique power of African storytelling.

Plus, we sneak in a laugh as Rob talks comedy, the upcoming Namaste Bae at the Hilton Arts Festival, and The Chilli Bar performance this weekend.

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Join us on The Lunch Break with Varshan Sookhun as we dive into a one-of-a-kind lifestyle experience with the visionary behind “Naan Sense” — Ivana Pillay.

Blending the science of molecular gastronomy with Durban Indian flavours and the flair of live performance, Ivana is serving Gauteng a fine dining journey unlike anything the country has seen before. It’s food, it’s theatre, it’s art — all rolled into one unforgettable, multi-sensory adventure.

In a play that critics are calling a "modern-day Macbeth," Breakfast With Mugabe dives deep into the tormented psyche of one of Africa’s most controversial figures. Set against the backdrop of post-liberation Zimbabwe, the play explores President Robert Mugabe’s emotional unraveling—haunted by the spirit of a fallen comrade.

Joining us to unpack this gripping theatrical experience is seasoned stage and screen actor Craig Jackson, who plays Dr. Peric, the psychiatrist tasked with confronting the former leader’s haunted past. We explore the psychological layers of the character, the creative process behind the production at Johannesburg’s iconic Market Theatre, and why Breakfast With Mugabe continues to resonate so powerfully with audiences.

Today on The Lunch Break, we shine the spotlight on one of Durban’s most dynamic theatrical exports — the brilliant Aldo Brincat. A true multi-disciplinary artist, Aldo’s journey has spanned across film, stage, and screen, with his talents as an actor and writer celebrated both locally and abroad.

Currently captivating audiences at Johannesburg’s iconic Market Theatre, Aldo stars in ‘The Moon Looks Delicious From Here’ — an award-winning solo play that sees him embody a vivid array of characters in and around a fragile nuclear family. This emotionally rich and masterfully executed performance has already earned international praise, including the Standard Bank Silver Ovation Award and the Special Jury Award at London’s Bitesize Theatre Festival.

Join Varshan as he chats with Aldo about his creative process, the stories behind the stage, and what it means to tell deeply personal stories that echo across cultures and continents.

Today, we’re thrilled to be joined by internationally acclaimed comedy magician and illusionist Vicus Cruywagen, who’s currently bringing the wonder to Durban with a series of fun-filled family magic shows. 

From dazzling stages abroad to spellbinding moments right here at home, Vicus shares his magical journey, behind-the-scenes stories, and what keeps audiences of all ages amazed.