Cultural Achievements Appropriately Recognised

The gracious Grande Dame of the Mother City (City Hall) was just the perfect venue to host an event of cultural significance.  The prestigious Annual Awards Ceremony of the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport was held in the City Hall on Monday, 11 February 2013.

The Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Dr Ivan Meyer, hosted the Annual Cultural Awards ceremony to recognise the individuals and organisations that excel in their field of work. Minister Meyer sincerely thanked the “countless volunteers who have worked tirelessly in promoting the cultural landscape of the Western Cape.” His words were interpreted into South African Sign Language by two Sign Language interpreters.

The choice of venue had great symbolic significance. It was at the same Cape Town City Hall that Nelson Mandela addressed the jubilant crowd after his release from Drakenstein Prison 23 years ago. The building is also well known for its unique architecture and its role in Cape Town’s social history. On Monday evening Minister Meyer unveiled the badge of Heritage Western Cape at the City Hall, which identifies it as a Provincial Heritage Site.

Altogether 23 trophies, 19 for the various categories and 4 Ministerial Awards, were awarded.  This year’s trophy was designed by Mr Douw Briers from Museum Services.

Dinner with a cultural twist was served, with dishes prepared from Sydda Essop’s recipe book, Karoo Kitchen/Karoo Kombuis. The Museum Services’ travelling exhibition on this publication was on display in the foyer of this magnificent grand old building.

Western Cape 2013 Cultural Awards Winners