The Darling Trust, a charitable organisation founded by South African icon Pieter-Dirk Uys, is set to host a spectacular black tie dinner and auction that will take place at Evita se Perron in Darling on Thursday, 26 April 2018.
The evening will be hosted by the first lady of South Africa herself, Evita Bezuidenhout, with the dinner menu designed by one of the country’s top chefs, Reuben Riffel (pictured left).
An auction with once-in-a-lifetime lots will be the highlight of the night and there will be live entertainment to entertain guests throughout the occasion.
We asked Pieter-Dirk Uys a few questions about the Trust, the event and the venue:
WeekendSpecial: How and when did the Darling Trust come about?
Pieter-Dirk Uys: The Perron Outreach Program was financed by the Perron and focused on children’s developments in art, music, performance and experiences/adventures: taking them to art galleries, concerts, the beach, a film. Then the Trust was formed 12 years ago as an essential part of a more community-based project that needed funding.
WS: How successful has the Trust been to date? Can you give us examples of achievements you’re particularly proud of?
P-D U: The Trust has managed to survive against all the odds. Against a backdrop of poverty, unemployment, alcoholism and tik, the main focus of the Trust’s work is to improve the lives of the community with the accent on family values and especially the children. As a result the Trust has built a swimming pool for the community and provides crèche facilities as well as Grade-R schooling for up to 60 children between the ages of three and five per year.
WS: What can guests expect at the inaugural Black Tie Dinner and Auction?
P-D U: Guests can expect an evening of fantastic food, music and entertainment in the dazzling company of the most famous white woman in South Africa and, as a guest at her table, and in the kitchen, one of South Africa’s best chefs Reuben Riffel!
WS: It’s taking place at Evita se Perron. Can you tell us a bit about the venue?
P-D U: I took over the old Darling Station in 1995 as a storeroom for the Evita Baroque, but soon was inspired to turn it into a cabaret venue. The Perron developed its café, museum/nauseum and two stages and grew as a permanent work in progress, adding the second building which houses the restaurant, bar and stage, as well the Arts and Craft (A&C) centre. Boerassic Park adds to the fun and Tannie Se Tuin is also a comforting contribution by the Trust to the daily lives of community people walking to and from the shops.
WS: What will Tannie Evita be wearing and will she be bringing any of her family?
P-D U: Rest assured, she will not let the side down.
WS: Any last words?
P-D U: Evita se Perron is in the Swartland, the only part of South Africa honest enough to call a spade a spade. It is also a unique experience for visitors from all over the world, who realize that a sense of humour can be more healing than a month at a spa!
What: The Darling Trust dinner and auction
Where and when: Evita se Perron in Darling on 26 April 2018
Book: Only 100 tickets have been made available for this exclusive evening at a cost of R950 per person. Tickets can be booked via the Darling Trust website at https://thedarlingtrust.org/ or via email to tasha@thedarlingtrust.org or call Tasha on 072 573 7937
WS
