The CPO, in collaboration with Artscape and the associated arts companies, is presenting a variety gala to mark 30 years of democracy.
The concert will take place at Artscape on September 14 at 19:30 and is supported by the City of Cape Town.
Artists, some of whom are performing with a professional orchestra for the first time, include Tarryn Lamb, Talitha Luiters, Craig Lucas, Loki Rothman, Edith Plaatjies, Vuvu Kumalo, Oleksii and Leda, the CPO Afri-Arts Choir and Cape Town Opera, Cape Town City Ballet, Jazzart Dance Theatre, Manila von Teez, Zimbini and Elvis Sibeko Studios and Unmute are also part of the line up. No such concert would be the same without the silks of ZipZap Circus.
A brand new medley of iconic hit songs by David Kramer will open the concert, which will be conducted by Brandon Philips. Alan Committie is the master of ceremonies. The team that put it together comprises director Aviva Pelham, musical director Stefan Lombard, producer Louis Heyneman and assistant producer Marvin Weavers.
For Louis Heyneman, CEO of the CPO, the variety gala is a high point on the busy Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra’s calendar.
“We are proud to be part of the musical journey of many young musicians from various genres, seeing them flourish as entertainers and also to see the pride experienced in the communities that surround them. We are also delighted to collaborate with Artscape and the associated arts companies to proudly show the South African cultural flag 30 years after democracy arrived on our shores.
“Our Variety Gala reminds you where we were before 1994 – Back of the Moon from King Kong evokes memories of apartheid, while Jerusalema is a toast to the future, a future that we as artists enter with great joy knowing we will make a difference in the lives of all South Africans.”
Echoes Artscape CEO Marlene le Roux: “As democracy turns 30, we in the arts should be proud that our divergent roots of ethnicity have merged in a Rainbow Nation. You will be mesmerised as we showcase a kaleidoscope that has echoed the nation's rich diversity seamlessly blending various artistic forms, in the hope of uniting audiences through the universal languages of song, and dance”.
The showcase emphasises the need for South Africans to celebrate unity in diversity, through promoting social cohesion and inclusivity of our unique, colourful cultural heritage and encourage our culturally diverse Cape Town, the Western Cape, as well as South Africans at large with a dialogue about our values, our aspirations and visions as we work together towards a united, inclusive and dignified nation.
For special needs, including wheelchair/persons with disability access requirements, kindly call Artscape Dial-a-seat 021 421 7695 or visit the Artscape website (www.artscape.co.za) for more information.
Tickets from Artscape Dial-A-Seat 021 421 7695 and Webtickets