Stellenbosch’s historic town hall will host its first-ever classical music concert as part of the renowned Garden Town Stellenbosch celebrations, featuring the full Stellenbosch City Orchestra and leading South African vocal talents on 2 November.
The Garden Town Classics concert is set to be the concluding highlight of the annual Stellenbosch Garden Town, which has run from October 25. This celebrated garden and lifestyle event is a showcase of the region’s horticultural heritage through open gardens, botanical displays, workshops and garden tours.
“A magical evening of classical music under the stars, set against the backdrop of the town hall – this is Stellenbosch at its finest,” says Elmarie Rabe, marketing manager of Visit Stellenbosch. “By bringing together our town’s architectural heritage, musical excellence and horticultural beauty, we’re creating a signature event we hope will become an annual tradition – just as beautiful as the other much loved Garden Town activities.”
The programme for the concert has been exclusively produced. Under the baton of Dr Paul Loeb van Zuilenburg, the Stellenbosch City Orchestra will accompany an exceptional lineup: sopranos Janel Speelman and Lynelle Kenned, tenor Louis Loock, and baritone Niël Rademan.
The evening promises a captivating blend of melodies from classical, musical theatre and opera repertoires, including selections from La Bohème, Die Fledermaus, Les Misérables, The Sound of Music and Phantom of the Opera.
Drawing inspiration from the festival’s garden theme, the programme will feature nature-inspired compositions including the “Flower Duet” from Lakmé, “Barcarolle” from The Tales of Hoffmann, and the “Vilja Song” from The Merry Widow. Audiences will also enjoy orchestral favourites such as Strauss’s Blue Danube waltz and excerpts from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons.
Come early, stay inspired
Guests who arrive early for the concert will have the opportunity to explore the botanical-inspired market inside the town hall. From unique plants and blooms to artisanal garden products, there’s something for every green thumb to discover.
With so much to see, it’s the perfect way to round off an evening in Stellenbosch before settling in for a spectacular night of classical music under the stars
Tickets are limited
This inaugural concert has limited seating and sure to be in much demand, so booking as soon as possible is being encouraged.
Purchase tickets from the Plankton online platform, here.
Event details
Stellenbosch Garden Town is an initiative by Visit Stellenbosch in association with the Stellenbosch Municipality and Stellenbosch Wine Routes. For more information, visit https://gardentown.visitstellenbosch.org/ or call 021 886 4310.