One of South Africa’s most celebrated musical voices, Simphiwe Dana, joins the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra for a spectacular one-night-only concert at the Artscape Opera House on Wednesday, 29 July 2026.
Simphiwe Dana: The Symphonic Experience will reimagine some of the artist’s most beloved songs through the rich colours and emotional power of a full symphony orchestra, creating an evening that brings together African heritage, contemporary expression and symphonic sound.
Widely recognised for her powerful, expressive voice and distinctive artistic vision, Dana has become one of South Africa’s most influential musicians. Her acclaimed debut album, Zandisile, established her as a major artistic force, and she has since built a reputation for authenticity, cultural storytelling and musical excellence. Singing primarily in Xhosa and drawing on rich African traditions, she creates work that resonates deeply with audiences both locally and internationally.
- The programme will include favourites such as “Inkwekwezi”, “Mayine”, “Ndimi Iqhawe” and “Mombathise”, alongside “Ndimemeza”, performed a cappella. Dana will be joined by her Musical Director Tshepo Tsotetsi and rhythm section, together with the full Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra and conductor Brandon Phillips.
For Dana, the project represents an exciting new dimension for music that has always been rooted in memory, emotion and storytelling.
“My music has always been rooted in storytelling, spirituality, healing and the emotional journeys of our people. Performing these songs with a full orchestra gives them a new sense of scale, tenderness and power. It allows the music to breathe differently,” she says. “The concert will bring together sound, memory, heritage and emotion in a way that feels both intimate and expansive.”
Adriaan Fuchs, CEO and Artistic Director of the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, says the collaboration reflects the orchestra’s commitment to celebrating South Africa’s most important musical voices. “Simphiwe Dana is one of the defining artists of contemporary South African music. Her extraordinary ability to weave together storytelling, heritage and musical innovation has touched audiences across generations. We are delighted to welcome her to the Artscape stage for what promises to be a truly unforgettable evening.”
Dana believes there is something uniquely powerful about hearing African contemporary music transformed through symphonic arrangements.
“It opens the music in unexpected ways and creates space for reflection, connection and joy. I am honoured to present this work with the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra and share an experience that celebrates where we come from, the beauty of artistic collaboration and the healing power of music. I’m delighted to share this moment with audiences in what promises to be a deeply moving and unforgettable experience.”
WHAT: Simphiwe Dana: The Symphonic Experience
WHERE: Artscape Opera House, Foreshore, Cape Town 8001
WHEN: Wednesday, 29 July 2026 19:30
BOOKING: Artscape Dial-A-Seat on 021 421 7695 and through Webtickets. Early booking is advised.
INFO: CPO VISIT | The concert is supported by the City of Cape Town.
