Memorable event on cards as country’s
crème de la crème in the arts gather.
Boasting a bumper line-up of talented Afrikaans, English and Sotho artists, sculptors and painters, legendary storytellers as well as speakers and curators, the 2025 Clarens Arts Festival, set to take place from 1-4 May, promises to be another memorable event.
From writing and painting, poetry and pottery, acting and cooking to debates and deep discussions, the festival has it all Surrounded by the Eastern Free State’s scenic beauty and impressive sandstone rock formations, Clarens has become a Mecca for talented artists, luring visitors from across the country for many years.
Brimming with artistic talent, it was almost inevitable that the idea of an arts festival would eventually blossom.
Post-Covid, the creative community put shoulder to the wheel, and in 2022, the Clarens Art Festival became a reality.
Three years on, the festival shines as a firm favourite on the national arts festival calendar.
As in previous years, the festival will once again showcase a scintillating array of live theatre, dance, music, visual art and sculpture. Providing music for the soul, André Schwartz is set to draw crowds, while the legendary Ian Roberts and his Radio Kalahari Orkes, are bound to raise the roof.
Music star Josh Mokoena, a native son of Clarens, and his quartet will be performing his first homecoming concert since departing for Joburg in 2016. He will treat his audience to an exceptional musical journey spanning genres that include jazz, blues, neo-soul and more.
Two superb dramatic performances also promise to pull many a heartstring: the three-time Naledi award-winningmusical, Vincent, starring Daniel Anderson accompanied by Paul Ferreira, explores Van Gogh’s enigmatic life in a dazzling multimedia production.
And to commemorate the life and work of one of South Africa’s greatest writers, Breyten Breytenbach, Koos van der Merwe and Bibi Slippers will celebrate his life.
Leading the Clarens Parkrun on Saturday, Comrades king and raconteur Bruce Fordyce, will elaborate on the challenges, setbacks and amusing moments from his remarkable journey as an ultramarathon runner in Tales from the Road.Â
Taking a different tack, Frik de Jager will entertain his audience on a fascinating journey around the world with his stories and recipes. In addition, (Ian) Roberts will talk about his memoir, Nomad Heart.
An impressive line-up of inspiring poets and authors will share their opinions in Afrikaans, English and Sotho, bringing literature to life.
Aussie author Tony Parkwill share secrets of his best-selling books and his passion for South African wildlife, while actress and author Susan Coetzer, will discuss her latest book, Haas en Harriët, and treat her audience to bubbles and cake.Â
Thriller writers Justin Fox and Tony Park will compare notes, while award-winning auSCENIC.
Clarens’ beauty makes it a perfect arts festival venue. Glen Green thor, Morabo Morojele, will also be in attendance.
Should expert opinions on topical issues appeal to you, top journalists Karyn Maughan, Pieter du Toit and TJ Strydom will discuss the state of the nation with political analyst and lecturer Piet Croucamp.
Catering for attendees who are fascinated by Clarens’ archaeological heritage, resident scientific experts Gideon Groenewald and Rodney Moffat will discuss the region’s rich fossil and indigenous lore with Paddy Gordon, manager of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park.
Art The village square, where close to 40 visual artists will be displaying their work, will be brimming with art and sculpture.
Among them is Durban artist Grace Kotze, local artists Debbie Marxand Sinalo Ntuli with his colourful depictions of contemporary African art. Those itching to use their hands and imagination, can indulge in a workshop.
 Should you wish to document your family’s history,MFBooks publisher Melinda Ferguson will be at hand to get you started. Alternatively, those interested in drawing can learn the art from artist Kara Schoeman.Â
For more information:visit clarensartsfestival.co.za
