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Thursday, July 24, 2025

WORLD PREMIERE OF BEETHOVEN’S CONCERT FILM

 


Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra in partnership with Ster-Kinekor presents the World Premiere of its concert film, Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9.

Historic cinematic experience for South African audiences, screening from July 25 to 29 at select Ster-Kinekor cinemas; ticket price at R90.

The Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra (NPO) is proud to announce the world premiere of its concert film, Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, which will be screened exclusively at select Ster-Kinekor cinemas nationwide from July 25 to 29, 2025.

Conducted by the renowned Marin Alsop, this groundbreaking film, recorded live in the Cape Town City Hall in 2022, marks the first time in South African history that this iconic symphonic work by a South African orchestra will be presented in such a cinematic format across the country.

Lynne Wylie, chief marketing officer at Ster-Kinekor, said the cinema chain was excited to share this collaboration with local audiences on the big screen. “We’re incredibly proud to partner with South Africa’s national orchestra to bring this world-class cultural event to cinemas across the country. At Ster-Kinekor, we believe in the power of cinema to connect audiences with powerful stories, and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 concert film is exactly that: a story of joy, unity, and the beauty of cultural fusion. This is a cinematic first, and we are sure our audiences are going to enjoy the experience.”

Nicole Haynes, speaking on behalf of the Mzansi Philharmonic, expressed the orchestra’s enthusiasm for the upcoming screenings: “We are thrilled to be showcasing this extraordinary concert film in cinemas. This project is a momentous step in our mission to share world-class orchestral music with South African audiences and celebrate the global power of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9. With its powerful message of unity and joy, enhanced by the inclusion of Zulu translations of Schiller's text, we hope to inspire pride in our rich cultural heritage while fostering a sense of shared experience across communities.”

This historic presentation will showcase the iconic Ode to Joy, reimagined with a unique South African soul, as the Mzansi Philharmonic’s vibrant musicians and local choirs collaborate to bring Beethoven’s masterpiece to life on the big screen. The integration of Zulu alongside the original German text adds a layer of cultural relevance and highlights the nation’s linguistic diversity and artistic expression.

 

Economic Impact and Cultural Pride

Beyond its artistic impact, this ground-breaking concert film also holds significant economic benefits for South Africa’s creative economy. The cultural sector is a major driver of South Africa's economy, contributing billions to the GDP and supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs. Through this project, the Mzansi Philharmonic is not only expanding access to orchestral music but also stimulating local economies, supporting job creation in the arts, and promoting South Africa’s cultural exports on the global stage.

Bongani Tembe, Mzansi Philharmonic’s chief executive and artistic director, said: “This initiative strengthens civic pride and stewardship, as Mzansi Philharmonic fosters a deep sense of pride in the local culture while encouraging broader engagement with the arts. By reaching new audiences, from students to arts enthusiasts and the broader community, the concert film encourages greater participation in cultural activities and helps motivate the next generation of South African musicians and artists”.

 

Ticket Sales and Screening Locations

The Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 Concert Film will be screened at various Ster-Kinekor cinemas nationwide, on July 25, 26, 27 and 29. Tickets are priced at R90, making this a unique, accessible opportunity for South Africans to experience one of the world’s most iconic symphonic works in a cinematic setting.

The concert film will be screened at the following Ster-Kinekor sites: Eastgate and Rosebank Nouveau in Johannesburg; Brooklyn in Tshwane; Watercrest in Hillcrest, KZN; Garden Route in George; Somerset Mall in Somerset West; and Blue Route, V&A Waterfront, and Tygervalley in Cape Town

Tickets for this exclusive concert film are only R90. Book on the new-look Ster-Kinekor website at www.sterkinekor.com or download the new SK App on your smartphone.

For news and updates, go to Facebook: Ster-Kinekor Theatres | and follow Ster-Kinekor on Twitter: @Ster-Kinekor. For all queries, call Ticketline on 0861-Movies (668 437).

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