Hermanus Kalfiefees 2023: An Unparalleled Festival

Kalfiefees, the much-awaited annual event, is all set to captivate audiences from the 8th to the 13th of August 2023. Celebrating its 23rd year, this event promises a delightful array of performances, encompassing music, drama, and comedy, as well as captivating plays for the youth, and book discussions for the avid reader. Nestled in the idyllic town of Hermanus, visitors are in for a treat with an abundance of sights and sounds to savour in between performances.

A Wealth of Local Art History

Hermanus boasts a wealth of artistic history, attracting renowned authors like Stuart Cloete, John Galsworthy, Uys Krige, Jan Rabie, Wilbur Smith, and Nicholas Monserrat to reside here. 

The town has also inspired notable artists such as painters Tinus de Jongh, Harold Boyes, Gregoire Boonzaier, Terence McCaw, William Timlin, and skilled sculptress Rhona Stern. Over the years, the beauty of this region has drawn many creative souls who found solace in the heart of Greater Hermanus.

2023's Music Performances

The stage is set for this year's Kalfiefees to offer even more than before. The event will kick off with the soulful tunes of Valiant Swart, with his distinctive guitar and harmonica. The local, who resides in charming Onrus, will start the festivities with his production "Ek en die Blues". For those who resonate with the strum of a guitar, "Die Liedjieboer" and "Tweegesig" will certainly strike a chord as well. 

For a folk-pop affair, Raaf, formerly known as the Bottomless Coffee Band, is sure to create a vibe. Known for their regular tours across South Africa and Namibia, Raaf will be launching their first Afrikaans album, "Prediker" soon.

Don't miss the rising TikTok star Tino, who has recently signed a contract following the release of his debut album, "Sterrekind." Fluent in English, Shona, and Afrikaans, Tino has chosen Afrikaans as his preferred singing language due to his deep love for the expressive medium. 

For those seeking a more classical touch, Coenie de Villiers and Andre Schwartz promise to captivate the audience with their spellbinding performances in "Grensloos". For the love of vocals, the gifted ladies of 8 Misses Croon will weave a symphony of enchanting voices, spanning from genres such as pop and jazz to classic melodies.

Literature into Performances

On Women's Day, the poetic experience "Die Oerkluts Kwyt" will feature the words of Antjie Krog, full of honesty, irony, and love. Another compelling literary-inspired piece is the portrayal of the heart-wrenching Herman Lategan's novel "Hoerkind" by the talented Geon Nel, who delivers a poignant one-man performance.

Ignatius van Heerden will be delivering a captivating fusion of dance and theatre, bringing to life Henque Heyman's book, Birthing Nureyev, based on the compelling tale of Rudolph Nureyev's dramatic defection from Russia in 1961. 

Addressing Contemporary Challenges

Beyond the mesmerising performances, Kalfiefees will host speakers who address the contemporary challenges faced by South Africa, offering practical guidance by the awarded television journalist Freek Robinson, Barend la Grange (COO of the Privilege Foundation and renowned economist, political and business analyst), popular television talk show host Ingrid Jones of Mikateko Media and Jaanre Muller of PSG Wealth in Hermanus.

Comic Relief

For those looking for some laughter on the matter, Kim Blanche Adonis' comedic delight "My Fellow South Africans," is a satire guaranteed to tickle your fancy. 

For humour on a different subject, "Klinkklaar" follows the misadventures of two chefs starting their own cooking show. Moreover, the comedy "Reünie," by Petrus Boshoff, revolves around a classic 40-year reunion where classmates share their entertaining thoughts. Additionally, "'n Gek vir jou" features two clowns in their quest for love in the 21st century.

Something for the Youth

The Woordklub invites the younger audience to immerse themselves in a world of absurdity and fantasy. Alternatively, catch performances by upcoming drama enthusiasts at The Cave Theatre at the Old Harbour Museum, a brilliant initiative by the Story Team that aims to inspire and nurture local talent through mentorship and support. 

Margit Meyer-Rödenbeck's "Liewe Heksie Vang Vis" will delight young and old.

Book Discussions

Book enthusiasts are in for a literary treat as four book discussions (with a complimentary glass of wine) will take place at Incanda Furniture. Pop in for Helena Gunter's debut collection of short stories, "Die Hart het sy Redes"; Jaco Wolmarans' book, "Dolos"; Irma Venter's "Die Verkeerde Vrou"; and Pieter Du Toit's "The ANC Billionaires."

Take in the Town

Visitors to the festival can also indulge in the delights of Hermanus. Recognised as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy in 2019, the Overstrand boasts delectable cuisine and exquisite local wines. Aside from the gastronomic pleasures, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy leisurely strolls along kilometres of pristine coastline via the Cliff Paths.

Kalfiefees 2023 in Hermanus is a true celebration of arts, culture, and the undeniable beauty of the region. With a diverse and captivating program, the festival promises to leave audiences enthralled, inspired, and filled with joyous memories. Mark your calendars for Kalfiefees 2023 - an unforgettable cultural extravaganza in enchanting Hermanus! 

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