Stellenbosch Town Hall overflowed with brilliant, vibrant, confident youngsters at the Cape Winelands Drama Festival Finale on Saturday 21 November 2015.
The Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS), in partnership with the Zabalaza Festival at the Baxter Theatre, Stellenbosch Municipality, the University of Stellenbosch, Langeberg Municipality and the Cape Winelands District Municipality hosted this lively event with spectacular performances by different groups.
Eight groups participated in the day’s events. They were all equally talented, but it was Team Bring It, with their performance of Endless End, who convinced the judges that they are the ones who deserve to represent the Cape Winelands at next year’s Suidoosterfees in May, along with the runners up, Curtain Call African Spear, with their performance of Turning Point. These two groups are also awarded the wonderful opportunity of performing at the Zabalaza Festival at the Baxter Theatre next year in March, along with the group Mansion of Possibilities with their performance of Bus Stop. The University of Stellenbosch sponsored tickets for the winners to attend next year’s festival. This will assist these emerging artists in experiencing professional theatre at professional festivals.
Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Anroux Marais, welcomed everyone in attendance and described the fine talents showcased as an “inspirational creative experience”. She also reminded the performers of their endless possibilities and that opportunities are there for the taking. “I am taking this opportunity to encourage the performers among us to continue to develop their art of drama through the constructive, professional partnerships with experts in their fields. Continue to nurture your craft. I can assure you, there will be days where you feel uninspired, but push through them, because each one of you showcasing your talents here today, contributes to a bigger cause”, she said.
DCAS presents these festivals to identify and develop the arts in communities. Communities should support these festivals to invest in local talent. Let us continue to develop excellence in the arts BETTER TOGETHER.
Tania Colyn
Head of Communication Service
Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport
Tel: 021 483 9877
E-mail: tania.colyn@westerncape.gov.za