Veteran arts journalist Peter Feldman has died
By Edward Tsumele
Veteran arts journalist Peter Feldman has died, and with his demise 50 years of journalism experience, most of it in the service of the arts, particularly film and theatre has been lost.
Feldman who at the time of his death was in the cousin of journalism, the public relations sector, but he died not abandoned completely the profession of journalism dedicated his life to fully. Although he had long retired from full-time journalism, he continued to write on arts for a number of publications as a side hutele, using his 50 years of experience and deep insights of the arts effectively.
A friendly gentle man, Peter was a journalist’s journalist, and he seemed to be so deeply committed to the craft that it was almost unimaginable as it will not now, to not have Peter putting his stamp on film and theatre for various publications that he wrote for as a freelance writer.
His departure from this part of the world will be mourned by many in the arts, journalism and the public relations sectors , for it is in these sectors where he contributed his knowledge , experience and skill of the written word immensely..
Last night information surrounding the circumstances of his death were still sketchy. Howver what is clear though is that peter touched many people through his writing for the past 50 years.
”It is with great sadness and with a heavy heart that we share the sad news of the passing of renowned theatre and music critic, PETER FELDMAN.
Peter was a special friend of Theatre on the Square and to me personally. His support since 1994 was exceptional. He must have attended and reviewed more of our productions and shows than any other journalist. He was loved and revered by all for his knowledge and passion for the arts and live performance, as well as movies.
As music film critic, Peter Feldman served 50 years of his accomplished career in journalism – for The Star, The SA Jewish Report, Artslink.co.za, The Citizen, Saturday Star, Sunday Independent and other publications. He was also a presenter on ChaiFM. He was a recipient of several awards for his contribution to music journalism and the SA record industry.
Our heartfelt sympathy is extended to his devoted wife, Carla, a drama specialist. Also to his daughter, Janna, his son-in-law and darling grandson, who reside in London. He will be sorely missed by the Theatre on the Square team for his contribution, as well as for his warmth, infectious humour and humanity, said theatre administrator Daphne Kuhn on her social media page.
“I’m so saddened by Peter’s passing. He was a great colleague and a lovely man with a mischievous sense of humour. Such was his love for the arts that he would gladly review shows and movies for free when we had no freelance budget to offer him, in service of the industry. He definitely left an indelible mark on our arts and entertainment journalism landscape. Condolences and love to Carla and Janna and the family,” said journalist Christina Kennedy on facebook.
“RIP Peter. I have fond memories of you – during my varsity holidays working at The Star Tonight! – in front of your typewriter, furiously hitting those keys to meet deadlines and your quips with Roy. You made the arts come alive in such an exciting and passionate way. Condolences to family and friends,” said Jason Aarons on his facebook page.
CITYLIFE/ARTS would like to say RestIn Peace Peter. You have paid your dues to society in general and the arts in particular.