Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees 2016
The KKNK, as it is known for short is a predominantly Afrikaans language event with some English incorporated into the festival programme. The week-long event is considered one of South Africa’s largest arts and culture festivals, attracting thousands of visitors per year and features some 200 performances. The 23rd installment of this ever-popular event takes place from the 24 - 30 March 2016.
The KKNK is the brainchild of two local businessmen, with the inaugural event being held in 1994, making this popular festival 21 years old in 2014. With so many years of tried and tested programmes behind it, you can be sure that this festival is certainly one of the best with superb recipe of entertainment comprising myriad genres of cutting- edge theatre productions, kids entertainment, visual arts installments, live music performances and much more.
While the focus of the event remains the same, fans can also look forward to one minor change. The image of KKNK, which has been red for the past ten years, will be replaced with a blue colour - a decision inspired by the hue of the mountains and skyline. Says Rhodé Snyman, CEO of Kunste Onbeperk, 'this new format allows us to have a greater offering available on days that most of people visit the festival.'
The festival is held in Oudtshoorn, a small town in the Karoo, and the end point on Route 62. Usually the settlement, which is known for ostrich farming, is quiet and unassuming by nature, but becomes abuzz with festivity during the event! The main streets are closed off to traffic and become lined with street food vendors, buskers and swathes of festival goers - making it a street party of note. The bars and restaurants throw their doors wide open and patrons spill out onto the pavements. It is a very festive time indeed.
While the KKNK has a distinctly party feel to it, it is also known for being a culturally significant event on the Afrikaans calendar, and a not-to-be event for many. Not only does it showcase the best in Afrikaans performance art, with many shows making their debut there, but it is also a great place to observe some of the more subtle Afrikaans cultural cues – the informal sokkie dancing, the distinct sounds of Afrikaans pop music and the braai broodjies (toasted bread on the fire) for sale being some examples.
Ticket prices vary according to the show, but one thing is certain: If South African performance art is important to you, you need to take a trip to the Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees.
Please click map for interactive version.
While care has been taken to ensure that information contained on the Sleeping-OUT website is true and correct at the time of publication, changes in circumstances after the time of publication may impact on the accuracy of this information. Sleeping-OUT gives no warranty or assurance, and makes no representation as to the accuracy or reliability of any information or advice contained on the website, or that it is suitable for your intended use. Sleeping-OUT recommends always confirming the details of the event with the organiser before booking accommodation.
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