We passed a collection of disappointed people who had failed to pre-book standing disconsolately around the huge “SOLD OUT” sign on the front lawn area – don’t take a chance – rather book online or at Kirstenbosch to avoid a similar experience, especially when a big-name band is playing.
After a long uphill slog, carrying beer and the picnic basket, we arrived at the arena at about 5 pm and thought we would never find a spot between the closely packed fans that seemed to cover every blade of grass. Finally we managed to squeeze in and actually had a pretty good view, not too far back.
If you haven’t been to any of the Old Mutual Summer Sunset concerts at Kirstenbosch before, it’s a must. The setting could not be more idyllic. Table Mountain provides a beautiful backdrop, with the inviting, rolling lawns surrounded by indigenous plants offering the perfect carpet on which to spread your picnic blanket. In late summer the stars come out as the light fades toward the end of the concert which runs from 17h30 to around 19h00.
Even though the concerts are always well attended you can usually be assured of a view of the stage as no sun chairs or beach umbrellas are allowed and those wishing to stand and dance move down to the very front. These measures, combined with the angled lawn mean good visibility for the audience. Smokers have to leave the area to have a puff which means the rest of us get to enjoy the fresh evening air.
Prime Circle, whose latest signal ‘She Always Gets What She Wants’ has been getting loads of airplay on 5FM and Radio 2000 in recent weeks, has long been one of my favourite local bands but this was the first time I’d seen them live. They didn’t disappoint. Lead singer Ross Learmonth’s voice is, if anything, even better live than recorded, giving me more than one ‘goosebump’ moment as he rasped his way through old and new songs. The whole band had an excellent rapport with the crowd who were in high spirits from the first drumbeat.
Not bad for a band once known as “those rock okes from Witbank”.
Six Quick Tips for an Enjoyable Kirstenbosch Concert Experience
- Pre-book online to avoid disappointment.
- Arrive early (at around 15h30 latest) if you want to ensure a spot of your choice.
- Don’t park in any ‘no parking’ spaces even if everyone else is – a R500 fine can make your evening out suddenly a lot more expensive.
- Kids are welcome and there is stuff for them to do set up at the back of the arena, but it’s not a babysitting service so don’t expect a crèche facility.
- Bring sunblock and a cap or hat - the sun can be pretty intense.
- Bring extra cash if you think you might like to purchase CDs and other band merchandise, on sale throughout the concert.
Thumbnail Image: Laertes. Creative Commons License.
All other images: Joy-Anne Goodenough. Creative Commons License
1 Response to Prime Circle Rocks Kirstenbosch
Excellent tips provided. I haven''t been for ages and must make the effort to organise a group of friends as we always have a great time once we have got over the fact that there will be A LOT of people there and so we must go early so as not to have to fight the crowds.
We also planned to leave as late as possible - which used to be around 9pm - so as to let the crowds disperse.
The other thing I always tell friends is that there are picnic options available at the restaurant inside Kirstenbosch and sometimes right by the venue as well, if not wanting to prepare one yourself. I hope they are still available?
This has to be one of the best outdoor venues for concerts in the world! If you love the outdoors, this is a must.
By sue ingram (4 years ago)