Music lovers got to experience Broadway in Somerset West this weekend, when the Stellenbosch City Orchestra brought smash-hit musical numbers to the Lourensford Wine Estate’s cellar.
Paul Loeb van Zuilenburg conducting the Stellenbosch City Orchestra PHOTO: Dylan Jack
The show took place on Friday the 26th and Saturday the 27th of May, and saw baritone Niel Rademan and soprano Janelle Visagie join the orchestra for iconic Broadway hits such as Memory and The Sound of Music.
The works included were Phantom of the Opera, My Fair Lady, Les Miserables and Cats, amongst others.
The show drew a large crowd and Saturday had a full house, with audience members singing along to Les Miserables’ Do you hear the people sing?
According to accomplished singer Niel Rademan, the night was a success because of the reaction of the crowd. When asked about the popularity of Broadway music, he credits it for being accessible. “It has a classical flavour, but is actually quite modern,” says Rademan.
Soprano Janelle Visagie joins the orchestra for a series of Broadway classics. PHOTO: Dylan Jack
The show marks the fourth time the Stellenbosch City Orchestra has played in the sprawling venue, where they had previously become the first South African orchestra to perform in a wine cellar.
Despite the unusualness of a cellar as a musical venue, the sound-quality of the performance was similar to that of traditional theatre performances. When asked about the venue, the orchestra’s conductor Paul Loeb van Zuilenburg said the acoustics were good.
The Stellenbosch City Orchestra in the wine cellar of the Lourensford Wine Estate. PHOTO: Dylan Jack
The orchestra consists of professional and amateur musicians, and only had 3 practices ahead of the show. It was founded after the success of the Bloemfontein City Orchestra and plays classical music, as well as more accessible modern music.
Fans of the show may see the Orchestra perform at Lourensford again later in the year for a Queen-inspired production, though the show has yet to be confirmed.-Tegan Mouton