Latest news with #KarooArtHotel
Time Out
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out
Van Coke, Kitshoff and Dobbo walk into a bar
It's not every day that a sleepy Klein Karoo town hosts a gathering of musicians, World Cup-winning Springboks, magicians and broadcasters, but that's exactly what's on the cards as the third annual 5 Arts Weekend returns to the Karoo Art Hotel in Barrydale from 18-20 July 2025. This festival is loosely geared around the theme 'The Art of...', with a host of talented South Africans hitting the road to Barrydale in aid of a good cause. The weekend kicks off on Friday night with an intimate concert in the hotel's gallery theater by Francois van Coke for 'The Art of Music'. Rugby takes center stage on Saturday with 'The Art of Rugby – Insight & Analysis', a more informal 'fireside chat' on professional rugby preparation with John Dobson, head coach of the DHL Stormers, and Steven Kitshoff, Springbok stalwart and scrummaging master. Leading the conversation will be CapeTalk host John Maytham. On Saturday evening, guests will also gather to watch the Springboks take on Georgia, with commentary, banter and braai flavor in full supply. Other highlights include 'The Art of Magic', with comedic illusionist Peter G, and 'The Art of Beer', hosted by Kitshoff; co-founder of Bomb Squad beer. Expect tastings, tales, and a celebration of South Africa's craft beer culture. But the weekend is about more than entertainment. It's become an important community upliftment initiative, supporting local rugby clubs The Stryders and Flying Eagles, who celebrate their 75th anniversary this year. With over 60 percent unemployment in the area, sport is a powerful force for good, and thanks to proceeds from past events, the teams now have new kit, improved facilities, and a growing youth program. This year's goal: new boots and more equipment. Along with Dobson and Co. contributing their time and talent, the weekend is made possible by Rick and Sue Melville, owners of the Karoo Art Hotel, whose deep local ties and commitment to Barrydale help drive the weekend's fundraising efforts.
The South African
23-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The South African
Springboks, braais, music and laughter meet at the 5 Arts Weekend in Barrydale
The town of Barrydale is set to come alive from 18 to 20 July 2025, as the Karoo Art Hotel hosts its third annual 5 Arts Weekend – a one-of-a-kind celebration of South African culture, creativity and community. At the helm is John Dobson, head coach of the Stormers and the hotel's resident 'Creative Conductor,' who has once again assembling a dream line-up of local legends across the world's of music, comedy, sport and culinary arts. This year's 5 Arts Weekend promises a dynamic mix of entertainment and experience, with headliners including: Francois van Coke , rock icon, opening the weekend with a live show on Friday night , rock icon, opening the weekend with a live show on Friday night Springbok great Steven Kitshoff , Mark Keohane , John Maytham , and Dobson himself for 'The Art of Rugby' fireside chat and South Africa vs Georgia match screening , , , and Dobson himself for 'The Art of Rugby' fireside chat and South Africa vs Georgia match screening Pieter G , bringing the laughs in 'The Art of Comedy' , bringing the laughs in 'The Art of Comedy' DJ Jaco Messenheimer, headlining Saturday's legendary party on the Harleydale dancefloor In between the music and mayhem, guests can look forward to: A scenic Saturday cycle through the Karoo (BYOB – Bring Your Own Bike). through the Karoo (BYOB – Bring Your Own Bike). A Karoo-style braai feast , featuring local delicacies like skilpadjies , Karoo chops , and braaibroodjies , featuring local delicacies like , , and A weekend packed with food, flair, and fiery performances under the winter skies. 'Barrydale in winter is something special,' says Dobson. 'The idea behind 5 Arts is to capture that magic through shared stories, music, sport, laughter, and of course, a proper Karoo braai. It's about good people and great vibes in a place that feels like home.' Tickets are available via Quicket and are expected to sell out fast. Limited accommodation is available at the Karoo Art Hotel and surrounding guesthouses. See you in Barrydale for an unforgettable weekend! When: 18-20 July 2025 Where: Karoo Art Hotel, Barrydale Tickets: Available on Accommodation Inquiries: info@ Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
