The Cape Town Carnival may have a new look, but you can still expect to be dazzled as you immerse yourself in a world of colour, costumes and entertainment.
With a break in its annual offering due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the carnival will host five hubs scattered across the CBD, offering a unique carnival experience on Saturday 19 March.
“We’re driven by the fundamental belief in the power of creativity,” says Prof Rachel Jafta, chair of the Cape Town Carnival Trust. This inspired the carnival team to find a new way to bring joy to the city once more.
“This year’s carnival will move people like never before. Literally.
“Visitors curate their own experience as they move between five distinct outdoor Carnival Hubs across the city,” explains Jay Douwes, carnival Chief Executive Officer (CEO). “They get to explore the city, its streets, restaurants and galleries, while enjoying vibrant performances, installations and attractions.”
Five hubs, five shows, five times the fun.
From 14:30 to 21:30, each Carnival Hub will host five consecutive shows celebrating the diverse cultures and stories of Cape Town. You choose how many hubs you visit, in any order, at a time that works for you.
The hubs will pop up at five well-known city landmarks.
Explore the Mountain of Memories at Hatfield Street Hub and Cultural Roots at the National Gallery Hub.
Marvel at Tales of Camissa at the SA Museum Hub, while Umswenko will bring the passion to the Heritage Square Hub and The Drum Era will come to life at the Green Market Hub.
The carnival has historically been a free event, but this time, you’ll need to confirm attendance and supply Covid-19 track-and-trace info by get a R10 ticket per show.
However, patrons can choose how many shows to watch. It is suggested though that they visit at least three for a diverse experience.
Expect specials, activations and more, as that carnival energy ripples through the city streets.
“Outdoor dining, open-air experiences, and the reimagined Carnival Hubs, we’re excited to bring people together and support local businesses in a Covid-safe way,” says Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis.
The hub format means the carnival can adapt to evolving regulations, such as the number of people allowed in a venue.
The hubs will be sanitised before every show and visitors will be screened on entry, with compulsory mask-wearing in place.
“The essence of the carnival is that it brings people together and enriches their lives through music, dancing, and art.
“The carnival has a tremendous social impact and MultiChoice is proud to be able to once again be a partner in this celebration of culture that creates opportunities for community participation and networking, builds social cohesion, creates jobs and drives tourism,” says Collen Dlamini, Group Executive for Corporate Affairs at Multichoice.
“And that is the ultimate vision of the Cape Town Carnival; that we come together, see each other, appreciate each other, and celebrate each other,” says carnival creative director Brad Baard.
To stay on top of the festivities, visit the official Cape Town Carnival’s website and be sure to follow the action on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
- V Book tickets for R10 at capetowncarnival.com