021FOCUS
If you were anywhere near Athlone Stadium on Saturday, 24 January, you would have felt it immediately — the colour, the rhythm, the unmistakable Klopse gees that turns an ordinary weekend into something shared and deeply familiar.
Day 3 of the Annual Kaapse Klopse Choral Competition, hosted by the Kaapse Klopse Karnival Association in partnership with the City of Cape Town, was dedicated to Section 2 troupes. It delivered a full day of disciplined performances, proud harmonies and community celebration that filled the stadium from midday onwards.
From sentimental items that pulled at the heartstrings to moppies that had the crowd laughing in unison, the competition reminded spectators why the Kaapse Klopse tradition remains one of Cape Town’s most enduring cultural anchors. Categories ranged from Grand March Pass and combined chorus to adult and juvenile sentimental items and Afrikaans moppies.
Supporters arrived early, taking their seats well before performances began, turning the stands into an extension of the stage. Families, friends and long-time Klopse followers sang saam, clapped in rhythm and backed their troupes with the kind of loyalty that can only come from generations of shared history.
According to KKKA director Muneeb Gambeno, the 2026 season has already set a high benchmark.
“The troupes came prepared, focused and hungry to perform,” he said. “You can hear it in the harmonies and see it in the precision. What we’re seeing this year shows how strong and healthy the Klopse movement is right now.”
Saturday’s programme featured a mix of established names and youth development groups, including Baruch Entertainers & TV Stars, Manenberg SuperStars, Mitchells Plain Young Tycoons, Carnival Boys Youth Development, Playaz Inc., West London All Stars and Juvie Boy Entertainers — a reminder that the tradition continues to grow through the next generation.
The City of Cape Town, together with the Western Cape Government, continues to support the competition, recognising its role in preserving cultural heritage and creating platforms for creative expression and youth development.
Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security JP Smith said the City remains proud to partner with the KKKA, noting that the annual competition plays an important role in keeping Cape Town’s cultural heritage visible and accessible.
As the season moves into its most decisive phase, attention now turns to Saturday, 31 January, when Section 1 troupes take to the field for the Section 1 Finals. The grand finale follows on Saturday, 7 February, when the Section 2 champions and overall winners of the 2026 season will be announced.
If you’re in Cape Town this summer, this is one of those events that doesn’t just entertain — it reminds you who the city belongs to.
Follow the Cape Town Street Parade:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/capetownstreetparade
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/capetownstreetparade/
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/CTstreetparade
Leave a Reply