John van der Berg

John van der Berg (1913–1974) was an Afrikaanse broadcaster and author.

Biography

Born in 1913, he studied at the Grey University College in Bloemfontein, then taught for eight years before joining the Afrikaans Service of the SABC in 1944. He was a versatile presenter of radio stories, sporting events and other programmes, notably his very popular series of talks on life and religion, including 'n Rusplek langs die Pad, Ook die klein dingetjies, Nog klein dingetjies, Elke huis het sy kruis and 'n Ruiker vir die vrou (the latter broadcast 1971 and 1972 in the Afrikaans women's programme Vrouerubriek by the SABC).

He retired on 6 August 1972, having been the programme organiser in Durban for many years. He passed away on 27 February 1974.

Contribution to SA theatre, film, media and/or performance

Selections from a number of his broadcast programmes were published, e.g. Ook die Klein Dingetjies (1957), 'n Rusplek langs die Pad (1974) and 'n Ruiker vir die vrou (Perskor, 1974). He also produced other publications including the children's story Soois op die Plaas (1965) and one play text, Die Voorlopers (1969).