Capetonians are in for a summertime treat with a variety of AquaFestival shows presented almost daily, until 6 January, in the V&A Waterfront.

Based on past Aqua Opera performances, the new AquaFestival show has been expanded to change its focus every 3 days or so.   It started off with H2Opera earlier this week, features the popular Parlotones on 18 December, Freshly Ground on 19 December, a Jazz tribute to Miriam Makeba from 20 – 22 December, AquaCarols directed by Richard Cock from 22 – 24 December, Johnny Clegg from 26 – 28 December, AquAbba from 29 – 31 December, AquaJazz on 1 January, AquaBallet on 2 and 3 January, and Ladysmith Black Mambazo from 4 – 6 January.   The Zip Zap circus performs daily until 31 December.

Performed on a stage built on a floating barge moored close to the Aquarium, with Table Mountain as a magnificent backdrop, the setting in good weather is exceptional.  Even the singing seals trying to out-do the opera singers added an interesting touch to the concert.   The H2Opera was performed by local singers Pretty Yende and Otto Maidi, while Oleysa Petrova and Brad Cooper are two visiting singers, from Russia and Australia, respectively.

Further details can be obtained from www.aquafestival.com.  Tickets can be bought at Computicket.

Chris von Ulmenstein, Whale Cottage Portfolio: www.whalecottage.com