Creativity meets winter at the FynArts Festival from 7 – 17 June 2024, in a unique fusion of Arts Festival and Winter School that brings together the excitement and energy of an arts festival with the stimulation of a winter school.
The full programme of events offers a wide variety of activities and events designed to inspire and entertain. From live performances by talented artists to interactive workshops and exhibitions where you can meet the artists, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Experience the arts and winter in a way that will not only leave you inspired and uplifted but also offers the opportunity of donning your coat to meet up with family, friends and presenters over a cup of tea, coffee or hot soup at the new Festival Hub, which you can find in the banqueting hall at the Municipal Auditorium. Or browse books and artworks created by local creatives in this new FynArts venue as you wait for the next discussion, interview or show to begin.
A festival of this nature cannot flourish without the support of a great many people, including our sponsors, advisors and of course, you our audience. However it is the artists, musicians, performers and presenters who are the foundation of this winter celebration and who make FynArts a top quality festival. We salute you and appreciate your creativity, skills, talent, expertise and ongoing, unstinting support.
The opening weekend of the festival is always a whirlwind of activity. From the first note of the opening concert until the last taste of dessert fades on the tongue on Sunday evening, the opening weekend is an experience not to be missed.
Friday 7 June
A Food and Wine Tasting experience will be presented by Creation on the Opening Friday at 12:30. Indulge your senses as art, wine and food intertwine in a five-course feast for eyes and palate on this award-winning wine estate in the scenic Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge.
18:30: The opening orchestral concert under the banner of Richard Cock features Emmanuel Bach, a young South African-born violinist, now living in London. He will play Mozart’s 5th violin concerto, “the Turkish one,” says Richard, “an interesting, fabulous piece”. The programme will include Mozart’s earlier Symphony no 4 and will end with Schubert’s beautiful, happy Symphony no 5, setting the scene for a happy, joyous ten days. Venue: Dutch Reformed Church, Hermanus
This year’s FynArts opens on the first Friday of June so another treat on this opening night is the First Fridays Art Walk when all participating galleries will stay open from 17:00 until 20:00. Hermanus will therefore be buzzing, so if you plan to eat out, make your booking early. For a list of all participating restaurants, go to www.hermanusfynarts.co.za.
Saturday 8 June
09:00: The internationally renowned South African artist, William Kentridge will accept the FynArts Legacy Award from writer and member of the Advisory Board, Christopher Hope. This annual award is presented in honour of William’s longstanding and distinctive contribution to the arts in South Africa and beyond. Following the presentation, William will present the 2024 Opening Address. Venue: Dutch Reformed Church, Hermanus
10:00: Learn about the healing properties of indigenous botanicals derived from fynbos and herbs at Healing Botanicals, with Millucia Sampson and Giselle Courtney. Test creams, sip tea infusions, taste herbs and inhale the fragrance. Venue: The Wine Glass
10:30: Chromatic Clay, the ever-popular ceramic exhibition curated by Liz Coates, will be opened by artist, Nada Spencer. This year the ‘new look’ exhibition will feature twelve top artists. Venue: Windsor Hotel
11:00: Talking Sculpture, a panel discussion with some of the eleven artists taking part in the 2024/2025 Sculpture on the Cliffs exhibition, chaired by Gordon Froud, will offer insights into their working process and inspiration that contributed to the artworks you will see on the cliffs. Venue: Whale Room, Windsor Hotel
Between 11:00 and 12:30 three events will follow each other. Die Pille is Wit, written and directed by Natasha Steneveldt is the result of a weekend mentorship programme offered by the Department of Cultural Affairs for aspiring actors, directors and writers. This play reached the final round and was performed at the Baxter Theatre.
This 30-minute play will be followed by the screening of two short films by Sandisile Ndevu, scriptwriter and executive producer. Isililo (The Outcry) was a winner in the Johannesburg 48-hour film project, this being the time allocated for the creation of a short film. This project was part of an international competition challenging budding filmmakers to make a movie. The second film is tourism-related and was shot in Greater Hermanus and is also produced as a competition entry. Venue: Municipal Auditorium
12:30: The annual flagship exhibition, Sculpture on the Cliffs will be opened by Gordon Froud, artist, curator and academic. Eleven invited South African artists will each exhibit one work in this outdoor gallery, on this spectacular stretch of the cliffs. Venue: Gearing’s Point
14:00: The 2024 Festival Artist is acclaimed photographer Mikhael Subotzky. This exhibition, drawing from his early photographic works as well as more recent related collage and works on canvas, will be opened by Bina Genovese, Joint Managing Director, Strauss & Co. Venue: FynArts Gallery
15:00: Celebrating Sydney Kumalo and Ezrom Legae is the title of the presentation by Marion Dixon, senior art specialist, who will tell the story of these two important artists who exhibited widely in South Africa, Italy, England and the USA during the 1960s – 1990s. Venue: Municipal Auditorium
17:00: Woman at the Wheel is the first session in a series of late afternoon Book Talks. Penny Haw’s latest historical novel is based on the life of Bertha Benz, wife of Carl who built the first commercially viable automobile which eventually evolved into the Mercedes Benz. Fellow writer, Gail Gilbride will talk to Penny about Bertha’s stirring story of the perseverance, resilience and love of a woman who lived largely in her husband’s shadow. Venue: Windsor Hotel
18:30: Tree of Life, a performance by VOX, a choir conducted by John Woodland. Inspired by the unique biodiversity of Hermanus, this immersive programme of choral music specially curated for FynArts, celebrates the splendour of our natural world. This promises to be another stand-out performance to end the busy, first full day of the festival.
Sunday 9 June
09:30: In Diane Victor - Prints, Drawings, Smoke, Gordon Froud will talk about the work of this eminent artist, known for her uncompromising directness and satirical observations which are a biting critique on South African contemporary society. Venue: Municipal Auditorium
12:30: The Mizar Trio, an ensemble comprising Louisa Theart (flute), Dylan Tabisher (marimba/vibraphone) and Rosamund Ender (cello) explore repertoire from the Baroque through to Piazzola’s tangos through the unique sound of their unusual combination of instruments. Venue: Municipal Auditorium
15:00: Mike Bruton, a scientist with a strong affinity for the arts asks, Are Art and Science Good Bedfellows? He will argue that these are two of humankind’s most creative endeavours as they are both important agents for change. Venue: Municipal Auditorium
16:00: The Charl du Plessis Trio, and an orchestra of fourteen musicians conducted by Richard Cock close the opening weekend with Bach, Beethoven and Boogie, a splendid showcase of unique and exciting music. The programme includes arrangements of music by classical composers, film music and big band jazz, as well as new upbeat arrangements in diverse styles, from rock and boogie to blues. Venue: Curro School
Monday 10 June
08:30: In this first session of Coffee and Croissants breakfast talks, Christopher Hope, award-winning writer kicks off with New South Africa – New Censors. An all too familiar topic, but what are the implications this time around? Venue: Hermanus Golf Club
09:30: Hamilton Wende, journalist, filmmaker and author, will tell the story of his journey into war, memory and ancient history following his travels with a TV news team when he found himself on the frontlines of the war against the Taliban. Venue: Municipal Auditorium
11:00: In writing the opera, Sara Baartman, Hendrik Hofmeyr’s research led him to arrive at an operatic portrait of a remarkable, complex and multi-faceted woman. The Real Sara Baartman will include a screening of the opera’s final scene. Venue: Municipal Auditorium
11:00: All Rolled Up with Rosemarie Saunders showcases delicious, versatile roulades that can be served as a first course, canapé or even as a sweet treat. Venue: United Church Hall
11:00: Be welcomed for Morning Tea with open arms and an array of sweet and savoury treats served by a team of intellectually challenged students from Camphill who have received training and the opportunity to enjoy meaningful employment. Venue: Only Specials Café
12:30: Visions and Virtuosity, a recital performed by Emmanuel Bach, Opening Concert soloist, in the relaxed setting of a private house. Emmanuel will be accompanied by his mother, Jenny Stern (piano). Venue: 64 Fernkloof Village, Fir Avenue, Hermanus
12:30: Wines of Note convened by Melvyn Minnaar: Winemaker’s Choice with Tertius Boshoff, Winemaker of the Year 2023 and cellar master of Stellenrust and ArtiSons Wines. Venue: Spencer Art Gallery, Harbour Road
14:00: Darrel Bristow-Bovey talks to Jonathan Amid about Finding Endurance, his stirring new novel which draws on literature, natural history, personal memoir and the thrilling epics of polar adventure. Windsor Hotel
15:00: Kayleen Wrigley explores the history of flowers in both classical and botanical art, referencing world trade, passion and economics in Peeling Back the Petals. Venue: Municipal Auditorium
15:00: Oelof Vorster, Head Chef at The Marine Hotel will demonstrate the art of making a versatile Racy Risotto, a roasted tomato dish bursting with flavour – perfect all year round. Venue: United Church Hall
17:00: Adam Welz talks about his controversial book, The End of Eden, to environmental historian, Kobus du Pisani. The New York Times described the book as ‘important and disturbing’. Venue: Windsor Hotel
Tuesday 11 June
08:30: International filmmaker and journalist Hamilton Wende has covered conflicts and wars around the world. In The Value and Power of Bearing Witness he will discuss how bearing witness to the stories of our time has led to a life of deep purpose. Venue: Hermanus Golf Club
09:30: The Bateleur Bird of the Year 2024 is a celebration of this magnificent raptor by Anton Odendal, an avid birder and conservationist. He will also discuss threats facing the species and current remedial conservation actions. Venue: Municipal Auditorium
10:00: Create, and take home, your own Flower Wreath. Susan Roberts of Lily-Rose Florist will take you through the process of creating a traditional wreath using dodder and kooigoed as a base. Venue: The Wine Glass
10:00: Make a mini container from different Fantastical Fabrics with Dal Botha, using techniques that can be applied to many other creations. Venue: Windsor Hotel
10:00: Andrea Liddell will teach you the art of aromatic Candle Making and the basics of waxes and wicks combined with the therapeutic effects of essential oils. Venue: Dutch Reformed Church, Hermanus
10:00: Learn all the technical skills of Everything Sushi from sushi master Sam Moima at this culinary workshop – and then enjoy your fresh and delicious efforts. Venue: Ocean Basket
11:00: In Vienna: 1840-1940 – The Golden Era of the Imperial City – Felicity Jervis, social historian, waltzes through years of glory, power, art and intellectual brilliance as well as rising intellectualism and growing racism. Venue: Municipal Auditorium
11:00: Soup is the ultimate winter comfort food. Christine Capendale, well-known for her fabulous culinary books and workshops, will inspire you to make quick, easy and delicious Super Soups. Venue: United Church Hall
12:30: Viamo per L’Arte is an uplifting performance by three of Cape Town’s top musicians: Albie van Schalkwyk (piano), Pamela Wijnberg, and Nerina von Mayer, both on flute. Venue: 64 Fernkloof Village, Fir Avenue, Hermanus
12:30: Wines of Note convened by Melvyn Minnaar: Wine writer’s Choice with Tim James, author of Wines of the New South Africa and long-time associate editor for the Platter's. Venue: Spencer Art Gallery, Harbour Road
15:00: The Creation of Sissinghurst by Vita Sackville-West will be presented by Margaret Abbott. Well-known for creating one of the most famous of all English Gardens, Vita was also known for her colourful and unconventional past. Venue: Municipal Auditorium
15:00: Discover Robust Ramen, a bowl of deliciousness brimming with rich umami flavours. Well-known local chef Cephas Mhiripiri will show you how to use local ingredients to make the traditional Japanese favourite. Venue: United Church Hall
17:00: Author Beverley Roos-Muller talks to Christopher Hope about how her two books, Bullet in the Heart, and the about-to-be-launched Hunting the Seven celebrate the saving grace of memory in Bringing the Past to Life. Venue: Windsor Hotel
18:30: The Generation Gaps, three musicians from three generations, perform a programme of songs loved by young and old. Hanna de Wet’s deep sultry voice and unique storytelling ability, Bram Potgieter’s moving and quirky piano arrangements, and Wesley Rustin’s impeccable interpretation of soul on rhythm on double bass, ensures no-one leaves this concert unmoved. Venue: Municipal Auditorium
Wednesday 12 June
08:30: Piet Croucamp will discuss how Teaching and Learning with AI is set to redefine university education, ushering in an era of personalised learning and intelligent algorithms. Venue: Hermanus Golf Club
09:30: In The Making of a Musical Career Kutlwano Masote talks to Christopher Hope of his journey from brilliant young cellist to today’s conductor, performer, composer, impresario, and radio announcer. Venue: Municipal Auditorium
10:00: At Bonsai for Beginners, Denise Krige and Alain Garbaccio of the Overstrand Kujira Kai will teach you how to develop your own little nursery tree that you will then take home. All materials are supplied. Venue: The Eatery
10:00: Join Silwood trained Cordon Bleu chef Kirsty-Lee Munro for a fun, interactive workshop making a variety of pasta and flavour-bomb sauces. Venue: Hermanus High School
11:00: Some Nudes I have Known is a light-hearted historical introduction by Felicity Jervis to some of the people who have posed nude for artists such as Titian and Michaelangelo while facing ridicule, and outcry, yet finally, fame. Venue: Municipal Auditorium
11:00: If Sexy Sardines seems an unlikely culinary title, then join Bella Niehaus, award-winning cookbook writer with a passion for fish, for an entertaining demonstration of the best ever recipe starring that little tin of sardines. Venue: United Church Hall
12:30: Wines of Note convened by Melvyn Minnaar: Wine Judge’s Choice with Winnie Bowman, a judge who travels the world for international competitions. Venue: Spencer Art Gallery, Harbour Road
15:00: Sacred songs have been written throughout history. Bevan Sylvester, the new minister at the United Church, will share The Stories behind Hymns and the circumstance under which many were written. Venue: United Church
15:00: You can Fish for Compliments after Anton Verhoogt of Fisherman’s Cottage has shared his tips for not only how to cook delicious succulent fish, but also on issues such as sustainability. Venue: United Church Hall
15:00: Pieces of Me, is written and performed by Bo Petersen, acclaimed South African actress now living in the USA, who brings her powerful, autobiographical play to FynArts for its South African premiere. Venue: Municipal Auditorium (also at 18:30)
17:00: Isabella Niehaus will chat to fellow foodie Gerrie Heyneke about her book There’s a Vegan on my Verandah, co-written with artist Louis Jansen van Vuuren. Together they weave a rich tapestry of tales with delicious, easy-to-make recipes from the organic plant world. Venue: Windsor Hotel
Thursday 13 June
08:30: Join André Oelofse for an early morning session of Tai Chi Chuan. Learn how to neutralise nervous tension and master the art of true calm. Venue: Fernkloof Hall
09:30: In Blood and Silver, Jan Glazewski will tell of the misadventures and unexpected discoveries he experienced when pursuing his dream of recovering family silver buried in a forest in Poland (now Ukraine). Venue: Municipal Auditorium
10:00: Kintsugi for Beginners (repeat) is an interactive workshop on the Japanese art of fixing broken ceramics with gold. ‘The act of piecing broken ceramic back together is a relaxing, meditative act,’ says Adri Baard, workshop presenter. Venue: The Wine Glass
10:00: In The Write Stuff, author and publisher Melinda Ferguson shares insights into the South African publishing scene, as well as tips on how to improve your personal writing and beat your inner critic. Venue: Windsor Hotel
10:00: Join Isabella Niehaus to develop the chutzpa to combine new and interesting tastes and become a Vegan in the Kitchen or to simply add new ideas to your culinary repertoire. Venue: Hermanus High School
11:00: Kutlwano Masote, cellist and radio broadcaster will look at how musicians from church programmes and music centres championed by black pioneers, kept music education and instrument tuition active between WWII and 1994 in Orchestral Ambitions. Venue: Municipal Auditorium
11:00: Nasya Venter, from the award-winning tasting room of Creation Wines, will show you how to make a Falafel Buddha Bowl filled with fresh, local, vibrant South African flavours. Venue: United Church Hall
12:30: Music in Wine convened by JP Rossouw: Nelis Uys, a punk rock drummer, and winemaker of Uys Family Wines and Spookfontein. Venue: Spencer Art Gallery, Harbour Road
15:00: The screening of the award-winning film Lions, Bones and Bullets, that uncovers the shocking lion processing industry will be introduced by director Anton Leach. Venue: Municipal Auditorium
15:00: Janine van der Nest, known for her passion for storytelling through food, will show you how to elevate the traditional cold weather favourite in Oxtail Winter Comfort. Venue: United Church Hall
17:00: Rudie van Rensburg gesels met Kerneels Breytenbach oor sy nuutste misdaadroman, Dwelm, asook sy immergewilde reeks Hans-boeke. Lesers kan nie genoeg kry van antiheld Kaptein Kassie Kasselman nie. Venue: Windsor Hotel
17:30: Share a relaxed evening and a delicious three-course meal with Italian twists at Virtuoso Classics at the Supper Club. Award-winning pianists Jose Dias and Mario Nell will entertain with their dazzling and fun programme of some of the greatest classical favourites and spectacular virtuoso transcriptions. Venue: Dutch Reformed Church, Onrus
Friday 14 June
09:30: Melinda Ferguson, author and publisher, will talk to Christopher Hope about stepping into the life of a subject when Ghosting Someone’s Life. Venue: Municipal Auditorium
10:00: Dal Botha, fibre artist, will teach you how to transform humble cord using simple coiling techniques into functional and visually captivating Twisted Elegance. Venue: Windsor Hotel
10:00: Floral artist, Thea-Mei Smit, will guide you to create exquisite wearable jewellery in Botanical Couture, sharing many tips for making a floral necklace and hairpiece. Venue: 102 Mitchell Street, Hermanus
11:00: In Investigative Journalism Tim Cohen, editor of Business Maverick, talks to award-winning journalists Susan Comrie of the amaBhungane Centre for Investigative Journalism and Pauli van Wyk of Daily Maverick’s Scorpio Unit about today’s challenges that underline why investigative journalism remains so vital. Venue: Municipal Auditorium
12:30: Enjoy this lovely Organ Ensemble played by our own organist, Louna Stofberg, her son Pieter-Adriaan (cello), and daughter-in-law Jenna (violin) in an unusual combination of instruments. Venue: Dutch Reformed Church, Hermanus
12:30: Music in Wine convened by JP Rossouw: Wynand Davel, widely popular freelance violinist who has played with the best joins JP for an exploration in pairing wine and music. Venue: Spencer Art Gallery, Harbour Road
15:00: Through researching Early Cape Wine Farms: Constantia and Vergenoegd, award-winning wine writer Joanne Gibson uncovers a conspiracy theory about legendary Constantia wine. Venue: Municipal Auditorium
17:00: The late artist Walter Meyer is widely celebrated as a fine painter of the South African landscape. His brother, Frans will talk to Amanda Botha, journalist and documentary filmmaker about his memories of his brother in Impossible Skies. Venue: Windsor Hotel
Saturday 15 June
09:30: Veteran journalists Peter Bruce and Sikonathi Mantshantsha unpack the national election and discuss whether we have the political leadership to navigate the world’s dangerous geopolitical shifts in Election 2024: What on Earth? Venue: Municipal Auditorium
10:00: Join a joyful Choir Celebration when the choirs of four local primary schools take to the stage. Donations at the door. Venue: Zwelihle Primary School
10:00: Chef Lindi is back with her Men in the Kitchen culinary workshop for both novices and experts. After creating innovative dishes on the Weber braai you’ll sit down to enjoy the fruits of your labour. Venue: 38 De Villiers St, Onrus
11:00: In Wild Adventures, well-known adventurer Riaan Manser talks about his two youth books, My First African Adventure and My First Wild Island Adventure, which are fun illustrated versions of the two original, epic journeys. Venue: Festival Hub, Municipal Auditorium
12:30: Two versatile African multi-instrumentalists present the Amani ya Ndani Experience – an electrifying performance featuring instruments you have never heard being played. Venue: St Peter’s Church, Hermanus
12:30: Music in Wine convened by JP Rossouw: As both a concert pianist and a winemaker, Cerina van Niekerk of Cecilia Wines has married her two passions in life – music and wine. Venue: Spencer Art Gallery, Harbour Road
12:30: Nhlanhla Biyela offers the unique experience of an informal lunch around the fire at a traditional Shisanyama, embodying the warm and inviting spirit of South Africa. Venue: Hood Natives, 589 Phosisa St, Zwelihle
15:00: Limitless is a vibrant and entertaining showcase of dance by performed by professional dancers from the award-winning Jazzart Dance Theatre Company. (Also at 18:30). Venue: Municipal Auditorium
16:00: Immerse yourself in a fun art experience while making new friends at this Paint ‘n Sip workshop with local artist Tertius van Dyk, taking home your own unique interpretation of his reference picture. Venue: Hermanus Golf Club
Sunday 16 June
10:00: Join Anton Odendal for a beautifully illustrated seminar on Overberg Birds, highlighting our fynbos and coastal endemics. Learn more about why the Overberg is a top bird-watching destination and the conservation campaigns to protect them. Venue: Fernkloof Hall
10:00: Learn how to work with polymer clay and create your own dynamic Clay Jewellery, guided by Zandré Jansen van Vuuren. You’ll go home with no less than five pairs of earrings, ready to wear. Venue: Café Anna, Hermanus Waterfront
11:00: South Africa has a long tradition of Growing Legends – people who, like Mandela, used the approach of combative conciliation to enable us to share this land in peace. Authors Nick Dall and Matthew Blackman discuss how this makes South Africa almost exclusively unique. Venue: Municipal Auditorium
12:30: Treat dad to a Father’s Day Celebration with a five-course lunch paired with award-winning Benguela Cove wines. Interact with the chef and winemaker in a relaxed and jovial atmosphere. Venue: La Pentola Restaurant, Hermanus Waterfront
15:00: In these turbulent times, An Afternoon with Marc Lottering is just what the doctor ordered. In this brand-new one-man show, Marc will have his audience in stitches with his outrageous views and hilarious stories. Venue: Curro School Hall
15:00: Norman Smuts pays tribute to The South African Musical and its remarkable success on the world stage. He also looks at how this art form reflects the culture and history of the various peoples of our nation. One show only and a first for FynArts. Venue: Municipal Auditorium
17:00: Author and publisher Karina Szczurek talks about her love for the short form in Short Stories, and her involvement in projects such as Short Story Day Africa and Short.Sharp.Stories. Venue: Windsor Hotel
18:30: Be prepared for something completely different when The Scullery Quintet takes to the stage with Everything but the Kitchen Sink! This new, unconventional crossover ensemble features a unique blend of the classic string quartet accompanied by a jazz rhythm section. Venue: Dutch Reformed Church, Hermanus
Monday 17 June
15:00: The Closing Concert at the end of the long weekend features the talented youngsters of the Enlighten String Ensemble who will be joined by the newly established Whale Coast Symphony Orchestra conducted by Hein Attwood. On the programme are both classical and popular pieces by well-known composers that will appeal to young and old. Venue: Dutch Reformed Church, Onrus