50 Rieldansers Prepare to Compete for the AIR Dance Challenge’s First Prize at Kranshoek

Kranshoek, South Africa – March 20, 2025 – The AIR Festival is set to make its grand debut in Kranshoek, a small yet culturally rich village in the heart of South Africa, on Human Rights Day, March 21, 2025. The event, hosted by the Cape Town Arts Festival in partnership with the Ariva Arts Foundation, the GNC (Griqua National Conference), and the Bitou Municipality, promises a day filled with vibrant celebrations of culture, art, and community. As part of the inaugural event, the AIR Dance Challenge will take center stage, drawing national champion rieldansers from across the country.

The Rieldans, a traditional South African dance that blends rhythm, storytelling, and community, will take pride of place at the festival. Elsabe Cloete, leader of the Griqua Rieldans for the GNC, will head up the Rieldans competition. Under her leadership, the Griqua Rieldansers have become renowned for their exceptional skill and passion in bringing the dance to life.

Dancers, including nationally renowned groups like the Griekwa Knersvlakte Rieldansers from Vredendal and the GB Batt Rieldansers from Montagu, will compete for first prize. Rieldans is more than just a dance—it’s a medium of storytelling and cultural expression, deeply rooted in the struggles and triumphs of the communities that perform it. As the dancers perform in celebration of Human Rights Day, they will reflect on the enduring importance of human dignity, justice, equality, and the artistic right of all cultures to express themselves.

Kranshoek, known for its proud Griqua heritage, is the perfect setting for this celebration. Historically, the Griqua people have faced immense challenges, yet their culture has thrived and evolved, blending indigenous traditions with influences from various South African communities. The AIR Festival reflects this spirit of unity, resilience, and pride in cultural identity. The Griqua community, as hosts of the festival, invites everyone—regardless of background—to join in celebrating the richness and diversity of South Africa’s people.

The AIR Visual Art Exhibition will open at 11:00 am, featuring local and regional artists whose works explore South Africa’s multifaceted cultural landscape. Curated by emerging fine artist Gatsby Mpoyi, the opening will include a live performance art set in the African craft village.

The festival will also feature the legendary Professor Dizu Plaatjies, head of the Ethnomusicology Department at the University of Cape Town, who will perform with his dynamic group Ibuyambo. Professor Plaatjies is an icon in South African music, having performed in over 90 countries and sharing the stage with global legends such as Sting, Stevie Wonder, Tracy Chapman, and more during Nelson Mandela’s 70th birthday celebration at Wembley Stadium in 1989. His performance at the AIR Festival promises to be one of the many unforgettable moments of the day.

In addition to dance and music, the festival will offer a vibrant mix of local food, art, and crafts. Festival-goers can explore the AIR Craft Village, featuring handcrafted goods from local artisans. Culinary enthusiasts can sample Griqua and Traditional African cuisine, showcasing the region’s rich culinary traditions.

The day’s festivities will culminate in a musical celebration as Breeze’n, a local Kranshoek band, takes the stage. Tolos the DJ and DJ Mjilo will also keep the vibe going into the early evening.

The AIR Festival is not just an event—it is a movement, a celebration of culture, creativity, and human rights. It’s a chance for all to come together, reflect on the progress made, and honor the journey that lies ahead.

 Festival Highlights:

• AIR Dance Challenge: 50 rieldansers and 7 African dance groups competing for the first prize in a high-energy dance-off.
• AIR Visual Art Exhibition: Featuring the Men of HeArt multimedia exhibition and stunning works from local artists.
• Dizu Plaatjies & Ibuyambo: Live performances by the internationally acclaimed musician.
• Griqua Choir: Soul-stirring music from the local Griqua community.
• Local Food, Art, and Craft: A celebration of the region’s rich culture through its food, art, and handcrafted goods.
• Breeze’n and Tolos the DJ: Local music to round off the evening in true Kranshoek style.

As the AIR Festival brings together the very best of Kranshoek and South Africa’s cultural heritage, it’s a celebration of unity, creativity, and human rights—a day that promises to leave an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all who attend.

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

ENTRANCE TO THE EVENT IS FREE!