Barrydale non-profit Net vir Pret will present their highly anticipated “Moving Mountains” Giant Puppet Parade on December 16th.
This extraordinary event has again organised in cooperation with the Centre for Humanities Research at the University of the Western Cape as part of a cherished tradition that brings together artists, scholars, researchers, and the community of Barrydale.
Directed by Sudonia Kouter and created in collaboration with renowned artists, including Luyanda Nogodlwana, Sipho Ngxola, Siphokazi Mpofu of the Ukwanda Puppet Company, Itumeleng WaLehulere, and Aja Marneweck, Moving Mountains it promises to be a stunning display of puppetry, movement, and original music.
What to expect this year
The thematic focus of this year’s performance centres around the idea of transforming spaces and spaces of transformation.
Moving Mountains seeks to address the notion of moving the immovable, drawing inspiration from the imposing mountainous landscapes that surround the Tradouw Valley, referred to as the ‘footpaths of the women’ in San.
Through the art of giant puppetry, the performance challenges societal obstacles and questions the figurative mountains humanity faces today. This captivating piece also delves into the life and legend of Koos Sas, a sheep rustler from the early
1900s in the Klein Karoo.
Accused of murder and hunted down without a trial, Sas is now celebrated as a local hero and symbol of resistance against colonial subjugation.
Moving Mountains explores Sas’s imagined journey through the mountainous landscapes of Tradouw Valley, reflecting on themes of freedom, justice, and exclusion.
READ: Koos SAS finally where he belongs
More than 150 performers to participate
The production features an array of brand-new puppet creations, including a giant leopard by the award-winning Ukwanda Puppet Company. With more than 150 performers and an ensemble of puppets designed by Clarisa Jonas and crafted by local school learners, this year’s parade promises to be a spectacle like no other.
Original music compositions for the performance have been provided by Peter Takelo and Garth Erasmus. The annual puppet parade and production, will take place on Saturday, December 16, at 7:00 PM at the Barrydale Sports Grounds, Barrydale.
“We are proud to acknowledge the support of the National Arts Council of South Africa and the Centre for Humanities Research at the University of the Western Cape, without which this event would not be possible,”Net vir Pret said in a statement.
“We would like to thank our sponsors Sanbona Wildlife Reserve in Barrydale and The Karoolkie venue for their gracious support.
