South Africa's esteemed voice of culture and entertainment
The late Barry Ronge (1947-2022) was South Africa's esteemed voice of culture and entertainment in radio, television, and print media for over 40 years - from the late 1960s until his retirement in 2014.
His signature column, Spit’ n Polish, ran in the Sunday Times for an impressive 27 years. He received a Lifetime Achievement Award from The Sunday Times for his cultural contributions.
He appeared on TV shows Front Row, Revue Plus and Cinemagic with Barry Ronge for M-Net and Artcha and Screenplay for the SABC 3. As well as a weekly Sunday morning art show on Radio 702, all while constantly travelling for film press junkets.
His integrity, humour, and fierce intelligence made him a household name, inspiring countless members of the Arts, Entertainment and Journalism communities, where his impact still reverberates through South Africa’s creative landscape today.
RONGE's RIGHT DOCUMENTARY:
THE BARRY RONGE STORY
Sanktuary Films is in the process of making a documentary on the late Barry Ronge’s life. The story follows Barry’s lifelong partner, Albertus van Dyk, on his poignant journey through grief as he searches for a meaningful home for Barry’s extraordinary library collection.
We pay tribute to Barry’s influence through interviews with some of South Africa’s most prominent cultural figures – actors, filmmakers, authors, and journalists – who reflect on Barry’s influence and legacy.
This documentary offers a rare and intimate glimpse into the private world of a man who was so publicly celebrated.
WE NEED YOU TO COMPLETE THE DOCUMENTARY
We are raising 1 Million Rand to shoot the remaining interviews and complete the film.
Barry Ronge dedicated his life to championing South African arts, journalism and entertainment. If his work touched you, please consider making a donation to help preserve his legacy.
Rewards
The Extra: R500+
– Special Thanks
The Contract Player: R1,500+
– Special Thanks
– Access to an exclusive virtual Q&A
The Matinee Idol: R3,000+
– Special Thanks screen credit
– Access to an exclusive virtual Q&A
The Silverscreen Star: R5,000+
– Special Thanks screen credit
– Access to the film’s premiere for two
– Access to an exclusive virtual Q&A
The A-Lister: R10,000+
– A personal video message of thanks from Albertus van Dyk
– Special Thanks screen credit
– Access to the film’s premiere for two
– Access to an exclusive virtual Q&A
The Lead: R25,000+
– Meet Albertus van Dyk over lunch (in-person/video)
– VIP access to the film’s premiere for two
– Special Thanks screen credit
– Access to an exclusive virtual Q&A
– An exclusive signed poster
Studio Head: R50,000+
– Associate Producer credit
– VIP access to the film’s premiere for two
– Meet Albertus van Dyk over lunch (in-person/video)
– Access to an exclusive virtual Q&A
– An exclusive signed poster
The Mogul: R100,000+
– Executive Producer credit
– VIP access to the film’s premiere for two
– Meet Albertus van Dyk over lunch (in-person/video)
– Access to an exclusive virtual Q&A
– An exclusive signed poster
Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference.
Thank you.