The Cape Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO) will host a variety gala to mark 30 years of democracy in South Africa, on Saturday September 14, at the Artscape theatre, at 7.30pm.

CEO of the CPO and producer of the show, Louis Heyneman, said they were honoured to partner with the Artscape and its associated companies to “proudly show the South African cultural flag 30 years after democracy arrived on our shores”.

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. ZipZap Circus will also join the cast.

A new medley of songs by David Kramer will open the concert, which will be conducted by Brandon Philips. The show is directed by Aviva Pelham with musical director Stefan Lombard; assistant producer Marvin Weavers, and comedian Alan Committee as the MC.

Heyneman said the variety gala is a highlight on the CPO’s calendar. “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.”

Artscape CEO Marlene le Roux said as the country’s democracy turns 30, people in the arts should be proud that their 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.”

Tickets cost R150 through Webtickets. For disability access requirements, call Artscape Dial-a-seat on 021 421 7695 or visit www.artscape.co.za

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Gala celebrates 30 years of democracy in SA