Experience the Desmond Tutu legacy at the WOMADSA festival

The World of Music, Arts and Dance (WOMAD) returns to the Mother City, igniting the city with a bold, multi-venue festival that celebrates the power of global creativity and cultural exchange.

From the bustling energy of multiple venues within the V&A Waterfront to the historic resonance of St George’s Cathedral, the Time Out Market for a poetry swag jam, and the tranquil beauty of Silvermist Wine Estate, each location offers a unique backdrop for a rich tapestry of performances and immersive experiences from Tuesday, September 23, until Sunday, October 5. 

WOMAD, founded by singer and songwriter Peter Gabriel, was created to unite people through music, celebrating diversity and fostering connection across cultures.

WOMAD South Africa spokeswoman Alexis Matsimela said that it was more than a festival.

"It is a journey, a sonic expedition embracing the road less travelled, the rhythms that slip through the cracks of commercial radio, and the sounds that elude social media hype.

"Attendees will discover artists celebrated abroad yet largely unknown in South Africa, each bringing the soul of their culture to our stage," she said.

Mr Gabriel once said: “I defy anyone to attend a WOMAD event and not come away gobsmacked by at least one artist you’ve never ever heard of.”

Performances and concerts include free and paid events.

This is the second year WOMADSA has collaborated with the Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation to host the Desmond Tutu United 4 Humanity Concert at St George's Cathedral on Friday, September 26, at 7pm.

Foundation chief executive officer Janet Jobson said that WOMAD's ethos aligned perfectly with theirs and the legacy of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, whose mantra “Be the Light” inspired people to act with compassion and courage.

Proceeds of the concert will support the foundation’s initiatives.

Ms Jobson said audiences would experience a transcendent musical tribute to Archbishop Tutu’s enduring legacy, uniting the angelic voices of the renowned Stellenbosch University Choir with celebrated artists from Italy, Spain, Belgium, Austria, and the USA.

This immersive performance blends cutting-edge 360° VR and binaural 3D sound, enveloping audiences in a breathtaking journey of peace, justice, and joy.️

Tickets cost R240 via Quicket. Booking is essential.

Stellenbosch University Choir, founded in 1936, has redefined choral excellence for almost a century.

Under the visionary leadership of André van der Merwe, this iconic ensemble has held the title of the world’s top amateur choir from 2012 to 2024, enchanting audiences across the globe with a sound that is as precise as it is deeply moving.

Audiences will also be able to step inside their world with an immersive 3D experience that puts them in the heart of the harmony.

Ms Matsimela said that this would be more than a concert.

"It’s a cultural moment you won’t want to miss," she said.

Cape Town-born trumpeter Muneeb Hermans, formerly from Hanover Park, a dynamic force on the South African jazz scene with roots in both classical and contemporary jazz, draws inspiration from Cape minstrel music, a vibrant tradition close to his heart.

He will be collaborating with his collective - Mansoor Joseph, formerly from Bo-kaap, and Damon Batiste, from New Orleans - to pioneer a fresh Cape sound that blends the colourful energy of minstrel music with the soulful rhythms of New Orleans jazz, creating a cultural dialogue that is both authentic and innovative.

They will be performing as part of the Global Sounds edition of the Heritage Month Festival at the V&A Waterfront Amphitheatre on Sunday, September 28.

For a programme and more information, visit WOMADSA.