OUDTSHOORN NEWS - This year, Klein Karoo Klassique not only presents world class classical music, but also offers plenty of free entertainment for all ages.
This festival of classical music, art, literature, food, and wine takes place for the 16th time in Oudtshoorn, from Friday 8 to Sunday 10 August.
From a concert series for young children and insightful music discussions for connoisseurs, to breakfast concerts to start the day, literary talks with authors, a visual arts exhibition, guided art walkabouts, and opportunities to help make a difference in the community – there is something for everyone to enjoy as part of the free programme offering.
The Little Maestros concert series returns, this time with a focus on the harp. Jana van der Walt (harp), and Magdalene Minnaar (violin & presenter) take to the stage in the Banqueting Hall on Friday 9 and Saturday 10 August at 12:30 with specially curated concerts for the youngest listeners.
These relaxed, interactive performances allow children to explore the music of Mozart, Bach, and other beloved composers through explanation, participation, and movement with the music.
Classical music is a powerful developmental tool for young children, supporting brain development and improving concentration. The concerts are presented picnic-style, and the whole family is welcome.
Festival host and Steinway Artist Charl du Plessis, leads post-performance conversations with artists, offering audiences a free behind-the-scenes look at the music performed.
Join these intimate music discussions in the Banqueting Hall, with some of South Africa’s leading classical musicians – a unique opportunity to learn more about the performers, their music, and the composers who inspire them.
Each festival day begins with a Breakfast Concert – where classical music meets a delicious breakfast menu. These free concerts start at 08:00 and offer the perfect combination of inspiring music and a relaxed atmosphere.
Whether you’re a classical music enthusiast or simply looking for a tranquil start to your day, there’s something on both the breakfast menu and the programme to suit every taste.
This programme includes Oudtshoorn pianist Marlene Vlok (Friday 8 August 08:00), pianist Megan-Geoffrey Prins (Saturday 9 August 08:00) and the Charl du Plessis Trio (Sunday 10 August 08:00). Admission to the music is free.
Jana van der Walt (harp), and Magdalene Minnaar (violin & presenter) share the stage for Little Maestros.
Three book discussions, made possible by NB Publishers, also take place in the Banqueting Hall. Audiences can gain insight into the authors’ latest works, their writing processes, and the stories behind the stories.
Each discussion offers a unique opportunity to engage with the world of literature in an intimate and relaxed way.
Three book discussions are presented during Klassique.
On Friday 8 August at 16:00, PJO Jonker speaks to Marliza van den Berg about his book Die Onsigbare. On Saturday 9 August at 10:45, Juliette Mnqeta is in conversation with Elna van der Merwe about her book If The Dead Could Talk.
The final literary talk takes place on 10 August at 11:00, Hertzog Prize winner Willem Anker speaks to Van der Merwe about his novel Patmos, based on his play of the same name, which premiered at the 2024 KKNK and received a special Kanna Award.
René Scribante curates the festival’s visual arts exhibition in the Banqueting Hall, presented under the theme Sacred Pulse. Featuring works by both established and emerging artists from the Klein Karoo and the broader Southern Cape, the exhibition explores rhythm, frequency, and flow where visual art and music intersect.
The exhibition invites the viewer into a sensory dialogue in which sound becomes image and movement takes shape.
Set against the evocative backdrop of the Klein Karoo landscape, the exhibition invites viewers into a sensory dialogue where sound becomes image and movement takes shape - a dynamic, living connection between cultural expression and natural beauty.
Scribante will lead an art walkabout of the exhibition in the Banqueting Hall on Friday 8 August at 17:00.
The Oudtshoorn ReWOLusie, a community project making a meaningful impact in the region, will also be present in the Banqueting Hall. Festivalgoers are invited to knit and crochet with the team.
Join the Oudtshoorn ReWOLusie and make a difference in the community. © Hans van der Veen
Every square created during the festival will contribute to a larger project that makes and donates blankets to underprivileged communities. Some of these handcrafted blankets will already be available to keep festivalgoers warm during recitals in the Civic Centre.
Support this local initiative by donating in exchange for a blanket or coffee-table book about the Oudtshoorn ReWOLusie or contribute a ball of wool to help continue this thread of care.
All this free entertainment complements nine classical music recitals by some of South Africa’s leading classical musicians.
A limited number of Klassique Packages are available, offering access to all nine recitals at a discount of over 20%. Tickets can be purchased online or from the KKNK office. Remaining tickets will also be on sale at the door before each recital.
Klein Karoo Klassique is presented by the KKNK, made possible by the Rupert Music Foundation and the ATKV, with support from Le Lude and the Oudtshoorn Municipality.
Accommodation sponsors for this winter festival include Aloe Manor, Argyll B&B, Bakenskraal Ostrich Palace, Beit Shalom Guesthouse, Hlangana Lodge, Kleinplaas Holiday Resort, Mooiplaas Guest House, Queen’s Hotel, Ravenscliff Manor and Rosenhof Country House.
For more information, visit klassique.co.za or contact the KKNK office via email at info@kunste.org.za, by phone at 044 203 8600, or send a WhatsApp to 065 285 2337.
Photos attached
- Jana van der Walt (harp), and Magdalene Minnaar (violin & presenter) share the stage for Little Maestros.
- Three book discussions are presented during Klassique.
- Charl du Plessis engages in conversation with artists after selected music recitals. © Hans van der Veen
- Join the Oudtshoorn ReWOLusie and make a difference in the community. © Hans van der Veen
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