Klopse Competition lights up Athlone Stadium

If you have not been to Athlone Stadium for the annual Kaapse Klopse Choral Competition hosted by the Kaapse Klopse Karnival Association (KKKA), where have you been?

In true Cape Town tradition, thousands of spectators made their way to the stadium to support their favourite troupes in action for the past four weeks and see who makes it to the next round.

The stands were filled with spectators of all ages dancing and singing along. Some lucky winners even went home with some lekker cash prizes and devices.

On Saturday, teams competed in the Section 1 finale, featuring the Juvenile Combined Chorus, Adult Coon Song, Best Band and Group Song competitions.

The stage was filled with electrifying performances from Baruch Entertainers, TV Stars, Cape Town Hawkers, Hanover D6, Seawind Entertainers, Phantom CD and Ashwin Willemse Orient.

Baruch Entertainers won the Section 1 title this weekend, ahead of the announcement of the overall winners next week as the Section 2 teams battle on the final day - Saturday,  February 7.

As the competition draws to a close,  spectators and troupers said that they are looking forward to the last day of the competition this Saturday with much anticipation as the overall winner will be announced.

Involved in the klopse since a young age, Nizaam Singh who is part of the Cape Town Hawkers.

Singh said: “I have been in the klopse since I was five years old. I sang solo, juvenile solo and the senior solo. This is a family tradition and something we enjoy a lot as a family. My dad was a singer and played drums and guitar in the band, so it is in our blood.

“We have to continue this tradition through generations; we already have the children involved and other family members who are part of different troupes.”

Following in her parents’ footsteps is Janine from Athlone, who said being at the klopse is a family tradition.

She added: “I come every weekend with my family because this is our culture and it is great. 

“What makes it extra special is watching our children from our community come out and perform and the music is my favourite part. 

“We have family members who are also part of various troupes as voorloopers. 

“One of the reasons we are also here is to bring our children and expose them to our heritage. We will definitely be here again on Saturday, it is always something new and interesting.”

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Cape Argus