Kultura Festival Debuts with Magical Musical Showcase “Symphony and Song”
The Kultura Festival is poised to make a memorable entrance into South Africa’s cultural landscape with its highly anticipated inaugural edition on 22 June. Headlining this debut is Symphony and Song, a captivating musical showcase that promises an enchanting Sunday afternoon for families, music lovers, and cultural enthusiasts alike. This event brings together the youthful brilliance of the Cape Town Philharmonic Youth Orchestra and the celebrated vocal artistry of soprano Zanne Stapelberg, creating a programme brimming with wonder and inspiration.
Specially curated for the Kultura Festival, the concert offers a dynamic blend of classical, operatic, and musical theatre selections. Audiences can expect a vibrant lineup featuring Rimsky-Korsakov’s dazzling Capriccio Espagnol, a piece rich in Spanish flair, and the rhythmic charm of Arthur Feder’s Tango. To keep younger guests engaged and enchanted, the performance includes carefully chosen surprises tailored to captivate all generations, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to being a truly family-friendly event.
Adding to the afternoon’s allure is the presence of Zanne Stapelberg, one of South Africa’s most compelling vocalists. Hailing from Durbanville, Stapelberg is renowned for her emotive performances and ability to connect with audiences on a profound level. Her setlist spans from beloved operatic arias like Come Scoglio and Song to the Moon to musical theatre favourites including I Could Have Danced All Night and selections from Kiss of the Spider Woman. She’ll also explore the sultry rhythms of tango through works by Astor Piazzolla and Ruperto Chapi, adding further richness to the musical experience.
More than just a performance, Symphony and Song stands as a celebration of unity, creativity, and cultural expression. It showcases the incredible talent being nurtured within South Africa’s vibrant music scene and reaffirms the timeless appeal of symphonic music. As the first offering of the Kultura Festival, the concert sets the stage for a cultural movement that honours heritage while embracing artistic evolution.
Whether you’re a lifelong classical music enthusiast or simply seeking a soulful Sunday outing, Symphony and Song offers a chance to be transported by the power of live music. With its blend of youthful energy, world-class talent, and genre-spanning selections, this debut promises to be a cornerstone moment in the evolution of South Africa’s festival scene.
