This August, the heart of the Karoo will come alive with music, cuisine, and community spirit as the Kaleidoscope Festival 2025 transforms Prince Albert into a cultural destination. From August 22 to 24, this one-of-a-kind event blends world-class classical and chamber music with curated food experiences under open Karoo skies.
A Symphony of Sound and Soul
The 2025 programme proudly celebrates South African musicians with new commissions and world premieres that reflect the country’s rich musical tapestry. Highlights include performances by composer Hendrik Hofmeyr, mezzo-soprano Minette Du Toit-Pearce, and violist Louise Lansdown, the festival’s creator. The opening concert, “Songs from Near and Far,” takes place at The Showroom on August 22 and features music by Brahms, Bridge, Loeffler, Hofmeyr, and Dale.
Concerts will be held at iconic venues including The Swartberg Pass, The Yellow House, and Gays Dairy—each chosen for its unique atmosphere and connection to the Prince Albert community.
From Stage to Plate
Festival-goers can expect immersive experiences where food and music go hand-in-hand. From a Karoo-inspired dinner at the Swartberg Hotel to brunch at Jeremy’s after the final concert, each performance is paired with local culinary flair. Pizza and wine at The Langhuis, breakfast from the Lazy Lizard, and cheese and wine at Gays Dairy enhance the sensory richness of the festival.
Legends and Rising Stars Unite
Joining the line-up are renowned musicians Nick Turner and Schalk Joubert, who will perform “Breakfast in Cape Town, Lunch in New York, Dinner in Prince Albert” on August 23 at The Swartberg Hotel. Joubert’s 25-year career includes performances with Hugh Masekela and David Kramer, while Turner brings decades of genre-spanning songwriting and performance.
Tony Alcock, a UK-based double bassist and co-founder of Kaleidoscope and the ARCO Project, will appear in several concerts, including premieres of new works by Arthur Feder and Jan-Hendrik Harley. The festival also features visiting international artists like Elliot Tingley, Emma Farnsworth, Klara Rüttimann, and Rory Africa, performing alongside top local talent.
The Heart of the Festival: The ARCO Project
The ARCO Project, launched in January 2025 in partnership with the Prince Albert Community Trust (PACT), teaches 80 children aged 4 to 13 the violin, viola, cello, and double bass. Their debut performance kicks off the festival on August 22 at the POP Centre, with string orchestras from four local schools performing beloved South African songs.
Kaleidoscope is South Africa’s first all-classical music festival and proudly supports the ARCO Project’s mission to uplift and transform young lives through music education.
Don’t Miss Out
Tickets are available via Quicket. With limited seating and high demand, early booking is essential. For full programme details, artist line-ups, and venue information, visit kaleidoscopefestival.co.za or contact [email protected].
