Plettenberg Bay, South Africa – March 13, 2025 – The AIR Festival, a vibrant celebration of culture and community, will debut in Kranshoek on Human Rights Day, March 21, 2025. This dynamic event, hosted by the Cape Town Arts Festival in partnership with the Ariva Arts Foundation, the Griqua National Conference (GNC), and the Bitou Municipality, invites all cultures to unite and honor Human Rights Day through the universal language of dance.

One of the key highlights of the AIR Festival will be the AIR Dance Challenge, an exhilarating competition designed to showcase the incredible talent, creativity, and diversity of South Africa’s cultural heritage. The challenge will feature two distinct categories: African Dance and Riel Dance.

Riel Dance, originating from the Khoi-San people, has a rich and meaningful history in South Africa. It is a traditional form of dance that integrates intricate footwork and rhythmic movements, often accompanied by drumming and other forms of music. The Riel Dance embodies the spirit of indigenous cultural expressions and is a significant part of South Africa’s heritage, representing resilience, strength, and a deep connection to the land.

In the African Dance category, participants will bring to life the rhythmic, energetic styles that are foundational to African culture. These dances, often connected to rituals, celebrations, and everyday life, will highlight the diverse forms of African dance from across the continent, from traditional to modern interpretations.

The winners of each category will then face off in an epic dance-off challenge, where they will perform to the same song – “Shine”, a powerful anthem commissioned by the South African Human Rights Commission to promote social harmony and national unity. This high-stakes battle will be a stunning display of cultural exchange as the dancers bring their distinct styles together in a celebration of artistic expression and mutual respect.

The competition promises not only to be a thrilling showcase of dance talent but also a meaningful way for participants and audiences to connect with each other’s cultures. It’s a platform for understanding, unity, and appreciation of South Africa’s rich cultural mosaic. Cash prizes will be awarded to the winners, with the final results being announced by the Bitou Municipality, led by Amanda Thandi Valela.

Amanda Thandi Valela, a passionate educator, performer, and theatre maker with over 15 years of experience, will play a key role in the festival. She is deeply committed to empowering young people through dance and theatre and has worked with various local schools, international festivals, and community initiatives. Her expertise and vision will add an exciting dynamic to the AIR Dance Challenge, making it a truly unforgettable experience for all involved.

The AIR Dance Challenge will be a powerful feature of the AIR Festival, offering an exciting fusion of cultures through the rhythm and movement of dance. It promises to be a highlight of the festival, providing an opportunity for all to come together in celebration of Human Rights Day and the ongoing journey toward unity, social harmony, and respect for diversity.

This high-energy challenge will take place at the Kranshoek Community Centre, alongside other engaging activities, including an African Craft Village, Cultural Food Highlights, and the stirring Griqua Choir. The festival will also feature a Visual Art Exhibition and performances by the legendary Dizu Plaatjies and Ibuyambo, ensuring an unforgettable experience that celebrates unity and diversity.

As a movement and a platform for dialogue, the AIR Festival stands as a testament to the strength of cultural traditions and the ongoing fight for equality and human rights. The festival invites everyone to join in this monumental celebration of who we are and where we are going as a nation.

The AIR Festival is proudly presented by the Cape Town Arts Festival in partnership with Ariva Arts Foundation, Bitou Municipality, Griqua National Conference, Tshisa Talent, and Plett Tourism, and funded by the National Arts Council of South Africa (NAC), the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC), the Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme (PESP5), Western Cape Government Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS), and South African Music Performance Rights Association (SAMPRA) Development Fund.

ENTRANCE TO THE EVENT IS FREE