Zimfest set to rock Cape Town
2008-08-19 12:33
Duncan Alfreds
Cape Town - Zimfest 08, boasting an impressive line-up of local artists including Freshlyground, The Rudimentals and the Dirty Skirts, looks set to rock the Mother City in September.
Organised by John Bartman and Tristan Waterkeyn of Overtone, the concert is aimed at highlighting the plight of Zimbabweans.
"Everybody wants to do something about Zimbabwe, but they don't know what will help, " Waterkeyn told News24. "Refugees are dying to get paperwork and this humanitarian fundraiser can make a real difference now.
Bartman and Waterkeyn believe the situation in Zimbabwe is changing for the better. "The trend is that good news is starting to come out of Zimbabwe and we want to spread that good news," Waterkeyn continues.
Asked why there is a distinct lack of Zimbabwean performers on the bill, Bartman says, "Look this isn't a Zimbabwean cultural showcase. We're raising funds for people who need it and we're doing that as loudly as possible.
"Our radio ads are designed to get people's attention and we play our role as music industry developers. We connect bands and fans in a creative and efficient way.
Although few tickets have been sold so far, they are quite optimistic that the concert will be sold out.
"It's just Cape Town man, they like to do things at the last minute," Waterkeyn adds.
All proceeds from ticket sales will go to Passop (People Against Suffering, Suppression, Oppression and Poverty).
Zimfest 08 takes place on September 6, at the Tafelberg Tavern in Gardens. Tickets are R200 at the door; and R150 on line.
- News24