Symphony Meets Spectacle at the CPO Variety Gala 2026

An integral part of the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra’s yearly lineup, the Variety Gala promises crossover, cinema and classics colliding for one night only. It is one of the organisation’s longest-running community programmes, designed to provide performance opportunities to local artists, many of whom appear with a full symphony orchestra for the first time.

Cape Town Philharmonic Variety Gala Musicians

The symphonic celebration features a talented selection of local stars and leading arts organisations from the Mother City. Some headliners include singers Tarryn Lamb, Craig Lucas, Anna Davel, Amara Voices, Sasha-Lee Davids, and Jimmy Nevis – some of South Africa’s most well-known and in-demand voices. Making their Variety Gala debut is the award-winning Tygerberg Children’s Choir, who are set to perform “You’ll Be in My Heart” from Tarzan alongside Lucas.

These musical acts are set to take the stage alongside a lengthy lineup of physical performers looking to wow audiences with their visually spectacular shows. This includes JazzArt Dance Theatre, South Africa’s oldest contemporary dance company, and the Zip Zap Circus, a professional circus troupe best known for their world-touring acrobatic displays. Cape Town City Ballet is also part of the Variety Gala, performing for the first time since their acclaimed Dracula production and just before their rendition of Orpheus in the Underworld. Cape Town Opera’s acclaimed singers will also be on the stage.

Cassidy Bailey, a talented young dancer who competes in her wheelchair, and her dance partner, Vuyani Michael, bring a uniquely moving and empowering show to the evening with the Cape Town Philharmonic Youth Orchestra’s concertmaster Corban Beukes. 13-year-old vocal sensation Moegammat Zayd Damon is also featured, alongside Ukrainian and South African champions Oleksii and Michèle, who received golden buzzers on SA’s Got Talent in 2016.

Of course, the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra is a mainstay throughout the event, the charismatic conductor Brandon Phillips wielding the baton. The local, world-class orchestra is performing hits by Céline Dion, Billy Joel, Toto, Il Volo, Pink Martini, and many more.

Finally, adding a special mix of glitter and stage-ready charm is the famous drag artist Tollie Parton, making her Variety Gala debut this year. Guests can expect her signature laser-sharp wit, which shone through in her recent comedy special Hoofseun.

The evening is hosted by Africa Melane, with Stefan Lombard and Aviva Pelham directing from behind-the-scenes.

In recognition of Artscape Theatre Centre’s 55th anniversary in 2026, a limited number of tickets are available at R55 exclusively through Artscape Dial-A-Seat on 021 421 7695.