Voorkamerfest

The Voorkamerfest is a festival like no other … where the theatre productions are performed in resident’s homes. Intimate performances welcoming performers and audience … the hosts proudly open their homes adding true South African hospitality.

The 13th annual Voorkamerfest in darling took place during the first weekend in September 2018, graced with early Spring flowers blooming in every surrounding field and reserve.  Regular and new fans were enthralled and dazzled by the diverse line-up and comeback after a 2 year break.

Be prepared for this 14^th edition – coming to you up close and personal with yet another brilliant line-up of South African brewed talent & entertainment!

What a privilege to partner with The Fugard Theatre, Kyknet, Wesgro, Rupert Musiekstigting & Darling businesses – making it possible for Voorkamerfest to continue working towards expanding the impact of the performing arts in our local community and further afield.

Aside from essential funding needed in order for the Voorkamerfest to survive, this community-run festival can only succeed if key residents and performers are willing to give of their time, talent, energy and spirit – these being our local theatre hosts, taxi drivers and of course our treasured back stage worker-bees! Thanks to all, for your commitment.

This small west coast village touches many who visit with its laid back, friendly atmosphere. Many, including the legendary satirist Pieter-Dirk Uys have fallen in love with the hamlet and never left! Pieter-Dirk’s motivation is integral to the success of this festival…also as patron of The Darling Trust…. Which receives a portion of ticket sales for its projects.

Each year the village comes together and 21 home owners throughout Darling volunteer their homes to host the theatre production –  a warm Darling welcome awaits you… this being the charm and secret ingredient of The Voorkamerfest – the coming together and sharing of live theatre performances under the umbrella of the arts! 

The mechanics of the festival is equally astounding! You never know which productions you will see until you have arrived! Seven routes host three acts that you will see at random – transported in true South African style by local taxis.

The Voorkamerfest is unique and truly magical. It’s changed the lives of many who have witnessed emotive performances and indeed the lives of the performers themselves.

Extract from a blog by Koos Kombuis after his performance at the Voorkamerfest 2012

“It was the most frightening but also the most exhilarating experience of my entire career as a musician. Coming out of an experience like that, i can’t help looking at things from an altered perspective.” 

We have had rave reviews from our artists, public and theatre venue owners, some of whom experienced Voorkamerfest for the first time!!

Festival greetings, we hope to see you in Darling this year, where there is always much to experience for anyone passing through.