The beat goes on for DUT’s Advancement and Alumni Relations Unit (AARU), which raised a healthy amount of money by hosting the popular Legends Live Concert as a fundraiser at the Barnyard Theatre at Suncoast Casino on Friday, 26 June 2026.
Plenty of tickets were sold for the high energy concert, which featured timeless classics from musical legends across the globe.
The unit struck the right note by hosting the spectacular show, which took audiences on an electrifying journey through musical history, according to Ms Ronelle Lyson, Alumni Relations Coordinator and event organiser.
She said: “The Advancement and Alumni Relations Unit (AARU) hosted its Barnyard Theatre Fundraiser as an opportunity to bring together DUT alumni, staff, friends of the University and supporters for an evening of entertainment, networking and giving back. More than just a social event, the fundraiser demonstrated the power of the DUT community when united behind a common purpose.
“Funds raised from the event will directly support initiatives led by the Advancement and Alumni Relations Unit that aim to enhance the student experience, strengthen alumni engagement and create opportunities for deserving students.
“These initiatives include student support programmes, mentorship opportunities, alumni engagement activities and projects that contribute to student success. The money raised will be used wisely.”
Patrons thoroughly enjoyed the evening, and it came as no surprise when they shouted, “We want more!” at the end of the concert.
One of the patrons, Kareeshma Gayaparsad, Marketing Practitioner at DUT said: “The show was an outstanding production and a thoroughly enjoyable evening in support of a meaningful fundraising initiative. Congratulations to the Advancement and Alumni Relations team on coordinating such a successful event. As DUT colleagues, participating in events like these is important because they strengthen relationships across the University, foster team spirit, and allow us to support initiatives that benefit the broader DUT community.”
The energetic international cast performed a collection of well-known hits by legendary artists including Madonna, Elton John, Tina Turner, Michael Jackson, Prince, Cher and Freddie Mercury.
The production delivered remarkable impersonations that captured the magic, the moves and the voices of the artists who shaped generations.
Ronelle’s organising team handed out lucky draw prizes during the concert interval, much to the delight of the winners.
She added: “The event also served as a platform to reconnect alumni with their alma mater, strengthen relationships across generations of graduates and encourage a culture of philanthropy within the DUT community. The overwhelming support received is a testament to the pride our alumni have in the University and their willingness to invest in its future.
“Every ticket purchased represented far more than attendance at an enjoyable evening. It was an investment in the future of DUT. We encourage all DUT alumni to remain actively involved with their alma mater by attending events, participating in mentorship programmes, supporting fundraising initiatives and sharing their expertise with current students.”
Ronelle said alumni are among the University’s greatest ambassadors and their continued involvement helps create opportunities for future generations of DUT graduates.
“Collectively, we can make a meaningful difference. Every contribution, regardless of its size, strengthens the DUT community and helps us continue building a University that transforms lives.”
Mr Zwakele Ngubane, Director: AARU, said the success of the Barnyard Theatre Fundraiser reflects what can be achieved when DUT’s alumni, staff, partners and friends unite behind a shared purpose.
He expressed his sincere gratitude to every individual who purchased a ticket, donated prizes, sponsored the event or attended the evening.
“Every contribution made will help us strengthen initiatives that support our students and deepen alumni engagement across the University. As we continue to advance DUT’s ENVISION2030 strategy, partnerships such as these remain essential in creating opportunities that will benefit both current and future generations of DUT graduates.
“On behalf of the Advancement and Alumni Relations Unit, thank you for believing in the vision of giving back to your alma mater. Together, we are building a stronger DUT community and leaving a lasting legacy.”
Ronelle said it was heartwarming to see graduates from different generations, staff, partners and friends of the University united in support of initiatives that positively impact students and strengthen alumni engagement.
“As the organiser of the event, I am deeply grateful to every person who purchased a ticket, donated prizes, sponsored the evening, volunteered their time or simply showed up to support the cause.
“Every contribution, no matter the size, will help continue creating meaningful opportunities for DUT students while fostering a culture of giving back among DUT alumni.
“Our alumni are an integral part of the DUT story. Their continued support, whether through mentorship, volunteering, attending events or philanthropy, ensures that we remain connected as one community. We hope this event inspires even more graduates to stay engaged because together we can create a lasting legacy for future generations of DUT students.”
Pictured: The AARU team at the Barnyard Theatre Fundraiser.
Waheeda Peters
