“It’s a show that gives a platform to some of South Africa’s most loved entertainers, while enabling others to perform with a symphony orchestra for the very first time,” says the CPO’s CEO and Artistic Director, Adriaan Fuchs. “It forms part of our mission to be an orchestra for all — one that not only takes great music to every corner of our diverse community, but also creates opportunities for emerging artists, supports the creative economy and showcases the extraordinary talent we have in Cape Town. We are grateful to the City of Cape Town for its support.”

Under the baton of Brandon Phillips, the orchestra will perform hits by Céline Dion, Billy Joel, Toto, Il Volo, Pink Martini and many more. A hallmark of the gala is its imaginative collaborations across genres and disciplines. Audiences can look forward to dancers from Cape Town City Ballet joining Sasha-Lee Davids and Jimmy Nevis for “I’ve Got You Under My Skin”; Craig Lucas performing “You’ll Be in My Heart” from Tarzan alongside the Tygerberg Children’s Choir; and strength duo Oleksii and Michèle bringing their brand of flair to the stage.

Adding a special dose of glitter and her inimitable wit to the evening is popular drag artist Tollie Parton, appearing at the Variety Gala for the first time. Also making a gala debut is the award-winning Tygerberg Children’s Choir, while 13-year-old vocal sensation Moegammat Zayd Damon is set to wow audiences with his extraordinary voice.

The musical director is Stefan Lombard, with Aviva Pelham as director.