Magician - The Amazing Ziggy
"The Amazing Ziggy does a great job! His Comedy Magic show was very entertaining and kept everyone engaged. So glad we could book him for a library show. The kids and parents raved about how they really enjoyed his show. I loved how he allowed the parents and kids to participate in the magic tricks he did. We booked him last year for a show at this library and again this year. There's no doubt that we will book him again for a summer show. Whether you want him for an event or private booking for parties, etc. He's definitely worth it!"
1st May 2026
Ashley Smith - Montezuma Public Library
Magician - The Amazing Ziggy
"We hired Aaron/The Amazing Ziggy to perform a magic show during our Victorian Christmas event in 2017. Working with him was a wonderful experience- he’s professional, courteous, and extremely talented. We heard nothing but positive feedback from the event goers who were captivated as they watched him perform magic tricks unlike anything they’d ever seen! I would highly recommend his services, especially if you’re looking for something out of the box and fun."
1st May 2026
Sarah Turner - City of Thomasville events director
Nico Phooko. Live On Stage Painter
"
Statement of intent:
Notes ‘n Strokes-The art of making music and the music of making art. 2014
I have since 1997 after graduating from the Johannesburg Art Foundation, been engaged in a variety of visual art related projects in and around Gauteng.
My research/ theme were to study and paint music more especially the music of The Sangomas (South African Traditional Healers).Paint the music they play when they set off to Twasa ( get their formal training) and the music they engage in on their return from their practices. To continuously paint it on occasional days of their festivities and ceremonies when they seek guidance from the greater spirits through an array of feasts. I then produced enormous amount of artworks based on this phenomenon and as time progressed I graduated into getting involved with live music bands other than that of The Sangomas. I began painting the music of a variety of bands and upon meeting a duo’ BlkSonshine’, started travelling and painting their acoustic nu folk music live on stages throughout Gauteng and other neighbouring towns.
A musician myself, (a vocalist and percussionist), I have from time to time been able to compose, perform and if not doing so, paint the music I feel inside and that witch I gather from sources other mine self. ‘Jazz, World Music, Trance, Experimental and Afro Jazz.’ I spent endless time in my studio working at the art of making music and the music of making art.
The concept has developed into me being invited to paint live documenting proceedings of prestigious arty functions, corporate events and performances.
My chapter will explore the possibilities of music as one of the most powerful subject matter for developing very interesting and influential work of art
I am involved with visual artists, poets, musicians, writers and dancers from various creative backgrounds as sources of inspiration for my work..
"
Nico Phooko - Live music performances,parties, weddings,corporate events,gala dinners,children's events etc...oʻ
Nico Phooko. Live On Stage Painter
"Yesterday's gig at Just Badela in Orlando West, Soweto, was a truly memorable experience. We enjoyed a soul-soothing live performance by the legendary Herbie Tsoaeli and his exceptional all-star band, featuring Ayanda Sikade on drums, Yonela Mnana on piano, Sbusiso Mkhize on trumpet, and Muhammad Dawjee on saxophone. Their synergy created an atmosphere that resonated deeply with everyone present.
The event also highlighted Nico Phooko’s creative spirit. Inspired by the music and the warm ambiance, he crafted a beautiful live painting for his “Notes & Strokes” series. This gathering was more than just a concert; it was a shared experience many attendees will cherish for a long time.
I also want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all who came out and supported the event, particularly those who purchased a copy of my coffee table book, “RHYTHMS IN BLACK & WHITE - A VISUAL JOURNEY THROUGH THE WORLD OF JAZZ,” published by Brandhill Africa. Your presence made the evening truly special, and I sincerely appreciate each and every one of you.
A special thank you goes to visionary Dumile Badela from Just Badela for this incredible collaboration. 🤝"
Siphiwe Mhlambi - Photography,jazz and live painting
Nico Phooko. Live On Stage Painter
"Nico Phooko is one of Africa’s most gifted visual artists who has embraced and popularized the
unique concept of LIVE PAINTING, through which he captures the essence of special events live
on canvas as it happens. He has been involved locally and abroad in private solo and various
group exhibitions since 2009.
This novel entertainment genre becomes a truly unforgettable part of the event, which is captured
and memorialised as an artwork. Guests love watching how the abstract expressions unfold on
canvas, representing the mood, the sounds and rhythms, and the highlights of the event in a most
unique and colourful way. The final product is the perfect memento of the occasion and a valuable
piece to collect.
Nico has been invited to artistically capture various events throughout South Africa and
abroad. Events such as A Tribute to Samora Machel, painting alongside world renowned
musicians and politicians who had come to honour the life of the late Samora Machel. The painting
was presented to Mrs Graca Macel, her husband Dr Nelson Mandela, and the Machel’s Family.
The event featured live performances Africa’s great musicians, Miriam Makeba, Hugh Masekela,
Sibongile Khumalo, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Ringo Mandlingozi, Joyous Celebration and more.He
has painted to the music of Joe Nina,Adile Yenana,Nduduzo Makhathini,Sello Galane,Lwanda
Gogwana, Khaya Mahlangu,Steve Dyer,Bokani Dyer,BLKSonshine,American
Illustrator,Artist,Musician - Shane Evans,Poet Kgafela Le Marabela,Dancer Moeketsi Koena,Gally
Ngoveni,Writer Mmatshilo Motsei,Voice and a host of of other Traditional and Jazz Musicians
throughout South Africa and abroad.Nico’s live painting CV includes many award ceremonies,
private and corporate gala dinners, conferences, weddings, children’s celebrations, music
launches, and many more prominent events
"
Thabo Sekoila - aRT YA Phooko
Caricatures The SAM Way!
"Must Hire!!!!
Best Caricature Artist ever! He is talented, timely, and made the 49th Birthday Party a huge success! Everyone got an illustration to take home as a souvenir and it added great value to the party and overall experience. I will definitely hire him again!
Rating:
Reviewer: Santrise Webb
Event date: May 31st, 2025
Services provided: Caricaturis"
15th September 2025
Santrise Webb