Get ready for Woordfees 2017, which features an exciting line-up of written, visual and performing arts. From hot new musician Majozi to the controversial play Piekniek by Mpande, from comedians like Barry Hilton and Rob van Vuuren to fine artists including Athi-Patra Ruga and Mark Chapman, with performance poetry, open-air concerts and documentary films in the mix, it’s one helluva programme. It takes place from March 3 – 12 in Stellenbosch, and the theme for this year is “wys” (wise/show).
The annual Woordfees is a literary and art festival of the University of Stellenbosch which was launched in 2000. Now in its 18th year, the event attracts students as well as art and literature enthusiasts from all over the country. It is also a celebration of Stellenbosch – the streets get packed with visitors and public spaces, restaurants and pubs are converted into improvised art theatres, galleries and concert venues. Although there is a strong focus on Afrikaans, the Woordfees also features works in other languages. Woordfees director Sara Botha says the aim is to “facilitate the development and promotion of Afrikaans in an inclusive, multi-lingual, welcoming environment”, as well as “developing new audiences and artists.”
A varied festival of events
The writers’ programme is the biggest aspect of the festival, and in 2017 it will be the first time that international writers will talk about their latest books.
Some 36 dramas will be staged, among others Athol Fugard, John Kani and Winston Ntshona’s iconic Sizwe Banzi is Dead and Reza de Wet’s Drif. A drama which addresses the current topics around student fees and the #feesmustfall protest action, The Fall, will also be performed.
The music programme is filled with concerts of popular and classical music. An international jazz trio will perform, the SU Choir will sing, and SU alumnus Megan-Geoffrey Prins, an acclaimed pianist who currently studies in America, will present a piano recital.
Big music stars will again perform at Coetzenburg, including Heuwels Fantasties, Coenie de Villiers, Brandon October, Mango Groove and friends and more.
A comprehensive film festival has been compiled, with films such as Die Rebellie van Lafras Verwey directed by Simon Barnard, as well as The Endless River by the Cape Town filmmaker Oliver Hermanus.
The Kinderfees features kids activities and kids theatre performances; family-friendly events and places to eat and drink will also be on the bill.
Where and when: Stellenbosch, 3 – 12 March
Book: Computicket
Visit: www.woordfees.co.za
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