top of page
rob-simmons-lWHP55X-biA-unsplash.jpg
MORE ABOUT THE SOUTH CAPE ARTS FESTIVAL

An Arts Festival for the Garden Route

The South Cape Arts Festival was founded by the George Foundation of the Arts in 2023 after teachers and studios in the creative arts sought a replacement following the closure of the George Eisteddfod and the Knysna Eisteddfod.  

 

Its founder, Jan-Erik Swart, had already presented a singing competition in 202I amidst Covid-lockdown and had revived a George Eisteddfod in 2022. 

Passionate and respected specialists were approached to champion the disciplines that would culminate in the 2023 South Cape Arts Festival.

 

The Festival started with 600 participants in 2023. In 2024 dance and special needs were introduced, receiving more than 1000 entries. The 2025 edition featured 2000 entries: 230 dance, 700 drama, 500 visual arts and 500+ Contemporary and Western Art Music vocal and instrumental participants. In 2026 there were almost 3000 entries.

 

The Foundation will celebrate its 5th Festival with a bumper edition, incorporating adjudication in Oudtshoorn, Mossel Bay, Knysna and Plettenberg Bay. 

​

ABOUT THE MUSIC DEPARTMENT

Our music department provides a strong foundation of musical excellence grounded in developing technique, measuring training and assessing musical growth, preparing young musicians towards outstanding performances, music exams and  accolades worthy of recognition by selecting highly qualified adjudicators.

​

The dance department celebrates the art of movement by providing a highly specialized platform for dancers to showcase their talent and passion. Through dynamic performances, renowned adjudicators and creative choreography, participants are honoured for their diversity, beauty of movement and excellence of development.

ABOUT THE DANCE DEPARTMENT

Young actors develop holistic drama skills by progressing  from undramatised to dramatised presentations, improvised scene-creation skills and a host of production experiences, including musical theatre.

ABOUT THE DRAMA DEPARTMENT

Experienced curators and adjudicators identify the artistic qualities to be adjudicated in every artwork, displaying them in public exhibitions, giving participants valuable advice and honouring artistic excellence at an exclusive gala prizegiving ceremony.

ABOUT THE VISUAL ARTS DEPARTMENT

SPONSORS & PARTNERS

Create an image of a young person with special needs who is passionately performing onstage.jpg

ABOUT SPECIAL  NEEDS

Special Needs participants are valued and appreciated for expressing their perspective on the creative arts in heartwarming ways. Participants are adjudicated with caring, compassion and a sense of wonderment for their unique contributions.

GEORGE FOUNDATION OF THE ARTS  N.P.C.

bottom of page