WOMAD Cape Town: A Celebration of World Music, Arts, and Dance

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The World of Music, Arts, and Dance (WOMAD) Cape Town festival is set to take place from September 23rd to September 25th, 2023. Founded in 1982 by British musician Peter Gabriel, WOMAD has become an influential platform for showcasing global artistic expression. This year’s festival will showcase a fusion of international and local talent, following the success of the inaugural WOMAD South African Safari in 2022.

A Vibrant Space of Sounds, Rhythms, and Movements

The festival will take place during the Heritage Day Weekend at the V&A Waterfront, where attendees can enjoy free concerts from 2pm to 8pm featuring artists from 11 different countries. The diverse lineup includes captivating music and dance performances, workshops, and a buskers showcase.

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The Highlights of the Festival

One of the festival’s highlights is the ‘WOMAD Indigenous Artists Concert,’ featuring the acclaimed Aboriginal singer-songwriter Shellie Morris and her all-women song and dance group Yarnumamalya Ayangkidarrba-langwa from Groote Eylandt in Australia. The weekend will also feature themed concerts, including the ‘World of Flamenco’ with Spanish artists Anabel Veloso & Gabriel Perez and the ‘Rappers Delight’ headlined by local hip-hop sensation YoungstaCPT.

Collaboration and Cultural Exchange

WOMAD festivals are renowned for their collaborations between international and local artists, and Cape Town’s edition will be no exception. Cuban icon Alfredo Hechavarria will team up with Cameron Ward and his band to create a vibrant Afro-Cuban blend of cultures, while kora master N’Faly Kouyate’ will join forces with local musician Albert Frost.

Interactive Workshops and Insightful Learning Experiences

In addition to music, WOMAD Cape Town will present Interactive Workshops from September 26th to September 29th, enabling participants to engage with international musicians in various venues throughout the city. These workshops will impart unique insights into the world of music and culture, fostering connections and learning experiences.

A Significant Partnership with the !Khwa ttu Heritage Festival

This year’s WOMAD Cape Town festival will feature a significant partnership with the !Khwa ttu Heritage Day Festival 2023. Taking place on September 24th at the !Khwa ttu SAN Heritage Centre in Yzerfontein, this festival will honor San Culture and showcase an engaging lineup of indigenous artists.

A Celebration of Diversity and Partnership

With support from the City of Cape Town, The Department of Sports, Arts and Culture, and other partners, WOMAD Cape Town 2023 promises to be an immersive experience that unites cultures and celebrates diversity.

Event Details

  • Dates: September 23rd to September 25th, 2023
  • Location: V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
  • Tickets: Visit the official WOMAD Cape Town website for ticket information

!Khwa ttu Heritage Day Festival Details:

  • Date: September 24th, 2023
  • Location: !Khwa ttu SAN Heritage Centre, Yzerfontein

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Lerato Mokena is a Cape Town-based journalist who covers the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene with a focus on emerging voices from Khayelitsha to the Bo-Kaap. Born and raised at the foot of Table Mountain, she brings an insider’s eye to how creativity shapes—and is shaped by—South Africa’s complex social landscape. When she’s not chasing stories, Lerato can be found surfing Muizenberg’s gentle waves or debating politics over rooibos in her grandmother’s Gugulethu kitchen.

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