Cape Malay Choir Board Choral Competition
About the event
The Cape Malay Choir Competition is a celebrated cultural event in Cape Town where local choirs battle for top honors, including the prestigious Silver Fez trophy. Rooted in the rich heritage of the city’s enslaved communities, groups perform traditional folk songs in Afrikaans and the authentic Dutch Nederlands Lied. This vibrant showcase blends historic storytelling, immaculate tailoring, and deep community pride into a powerful musical tradition. It stands as a living testament to Cape Town’s resilient spirit, bringing communities together each year to celebrate identity through song. Experience the spirit, rhythm, and pride of Cape Town at our annual Cape Malay Choir Competition! As one of the city’s most anticipated cultural showcases, this iconic event brings local choirs together to battle for top honors, including the prestigious Silver Fez trophy. Deeply rooted in the rich history of our enslaved communities, our stages come alive with traditional folk songs performed in soulful Afrikaans and the authentic Dutch Nederlands Lied. Do not miss your chance to witness immaculate tailoring, powerful vocal harmonies, and the undeniable energy of ghoema rhythms. Step into a legacy over 87 years in the making with the Cape Malay Choir Board. Watch history come alive as more than 3,000 active members across various unique communities take the stage. Every year, teams pour months of intense preparation into mastering dense vocal arrangements and choreographing breathtaking performances. This is more than just a musical tournament. It is a fierce but friendly battle for neighborhood bragging rights and deep-rooted community pride. The air in the arena fills with standard-setting vocal techniques, ranging from emotional, historic ballads to high-spirited comic singing. Offstage, the visual spectacle is just as captivating. Teams appear in impeccably tailored, vibrant matching suits that flash under the stage lights as they move in perfect unison. This multi-day event offers an unforgettable look into the resilient spirit and living heritage of the Mother City. 16th October – 5 hours (including intervals) 17th and 18th October 6 hours 30 min (including intervals) Age Restriction: N/A
Kindly note Artscape provides wheelchair seating. You can book directly via this website but should you require assistance please call Artscape Dial-a-Seat on 021 421 76 95 who will assist with navigation and booking. Important Notice: PAID PARKING FOR ARTSCAPE THEATRE Secure parking is available for Artscape patrons at the Cape Town Civic Centre basement parking area. Access is via the Jan Smuts Street entrance at the times indicated below: Operating hours • Mondays to Fridays between 5 pm and 11 pm • Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays during showtimes Parking tariffs Fee: R45.00 For more info, please contact dial-a-seat: 021 421 76 95
