This August, the serene town of Prince Albert, nestled at the foot of the Swartberg Mountains in the Great Karoo, will resonate with melodies and flavours as it hosts the Kaleidoscope Festival 2025.

Scheduled from August 22 to August 24, this three-day event promises an immersive experience of chamber music, culinary delights, and community spirit.

A celebration of music and community
The festival, founded by Prince Albert residents South African violist Louise Lansdown and UK double bassist Tony Alcock, aims to blend world-class classical and chamber music with the rich heritage of the Karoo.

Each concert is set in a different intimate venue across the town, transforming everyday spaces such as churches, farms, and heritage homes into cultural stages.

The lineup includes performances by renowned artists such as Hendrik Hofmeyr, Minette du Toit-Pearce, the ARCO Youth Orchestra, and members of the Cape Philharmonic Youth Orchestra.

Concerts will be held at iconic venues including The Swartberg Pass, The Yellow House, and Gay’s Guernsey Dairy, each offering a unique atmosphere that elevates the musical experience.

Culinary experiences under the Karoo sky
Beyond music, the festival offers a gastronomic adventure that guides attendees through centuries of music and accompanying food. From brunch, lunch, cheese and wine tasting, coffee and cake, to dinners and late-night drinks, the festival's culinary offerings are designed to satiate the senses.

Fostering community engagement
Kaleidoscope places heavy emphasis on inclusivity and community participation. The festival collaborates closely with four renowned NPOs: Prince Albert Community Trust, Cape Philharmonic Orchestra, ARCO Project, and Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra.

Artists, youth, volunteers, and local businesses work together to create something both meaningful and enduring, fostering a deeper sense of identity and care for Prince Albert’s shared heritage.

A welcoming atmosphere for all
Kaleidoscope is especially welcoming to would-be music enthusiasts; those intrigued by classical music but unsure where to start. The festival removes the formality and invites all to engage with music in accessible, immersive ways.

Festival highlights

• August 22, 12:30 PM: The ARCO Project at The POP Centre.
• August 22, 7:30 PM: "Songs from Near and Far" at The Showroom Theatre.
• August 23, 10:00 AM: "Round the World with Four Violas" at The Dance Floor.
• August 23, 12:00 PM: "Brass Tastic" at The Yellow House.
• August 23, 5:00 PM: The African String Quartet at Gay’s Guernsey Dairy.
• August 23, 8:00 PM: "Breakfast in Cape Town, Lunch in New York, Dinner in Prince Albert" at The Swartberg Hotel.
• August 24, 9:00 AM: Cape Philharmonic Youth Orchestra at The New Apostolic Church.
• August 24, 11:00 AM: "Long Walk to Freedom" at The Central Private Hotel.

Tickets and more information
Tickets for the festival are available via Quicket. For more details on the programme and venues, visit the official Kaleidoscope Festival website.