Festival serves Mitchell’s Plain for 15 years
The annual DStv Kyknet Mitchell's Plain Festival has been serving Mitchell’s Plain for 15 years.
Over 30 000 people filled Westridge Gardens from Friday December 1 to Sunday December 3. Filled with family fun, market places and entertainment from Cape Town’s finest artists and musicians, they kept Mitchell’s Plain busy at the Coca-Cola and Sprite Stages.
“We extend heartfelt gratitude to the community, sponsors, and social partners whose unwavering support made this achievement possible,” said festival director, Rozario Brown.
Performer Madeegha Anders told the Plainsman on Sunday December 3 that she took to the stage 15 years ago and returned for their 15th festival this year.
“Fifteen years ago when the very first one started I remember singing on a stage with sand in an open space. The people obviously were from a different era then. It was wonderful really. Coming back here now from what I’ve seen the crowd is welcoming. When I went on stage it took my right back to the very first time. There’s a massive difference from then and now, a great one that is positive,” she said.
The event was well organised and the standard of performers is amazing. Giving the up and coming artist space and time is a delight to see, she said.
“I wish the future of this festival well. This will become a platform for upcoming young artists to showcase who they are and what they can do. God willing, it's already started. I know of youngsters who’ve gone on to do other things and that’s beautiful,” he said.
Festival attendee, Gerome Hendriks who visited the festival on Friday December 1 with his family said he attended the festival for about 15 years.
“This is needed in the community as everyone comes together to celebrate this time of the year. It is a delight to come and experience and be a part of this.”
Ward 81 councillor Ashley Potts said this weekend was arguably one of Cape Town’s best achievements run by Rozario Brown and his team.
Seeing young people own the space and express themselves the way they have says, they want more, he said.
“I am sure I speak for many when I say, we cannot wait for the return hereof. I hope to see more such events and opportunities made available for our people. Westridge Gardens is indeed an iconic location for these events,” he said.
Over a hundred vendors and over 1000 individuals employed at the festival were part of the festival despite the prevailing economic climate affecting spending patterns, he said.
No incidents occurred at the festival, “a testament to the collaborative efforts of our sponsors,” including Plainsman, Heart FM, City of Cape Town, MTN, Blue Ribbon Bread, Nedbank, DStv, Kyknet & Kie, Brights Hardware, Western Cape Government, Loop Transport, Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company, Digital Express, The SA National Defence Force, Robben Island Museum, and Shoprite, he said.
“Special appreciation goes to the Disaster Risk Management team, Fire and Rescue, SA Police Services, Law Enforcement, Traffic Services, and the City of Cape Town's Events Department for ensuring a safe and incident-free environment,” he said.
“As we bid farewell to 2023, we extend warm wishes to all who attended and supported this year's festival for a blessed festive season and a prosperous 2024. Mark your calendars for the 2024 festival on December 6th, 7th, and 8th, where exciting changes and additions await,” he said.
