London - The annual Namaqua Festival is in jeopardy, and its all because of Steve Hofmeyr.
According to Afrikaans newspaper Die Burger, the festival – which attracts around 8000 people – looks set to lose its star attraction after the Matzikama municipality requested that Hofmeyr be dropped from the programme.
According to festival organiser Louis le Grange, the municipality sent him an e-mail opposing the presence of Hofmeyr because the singer was “known for his racism” in his song lyrics and the remarks he often makes on stage.
In protest, Le Grange withdrew his Events24 company from the organisation of the festival, and cancelled Hofmeyr’s appearance as well as the bookings for 20 other artists. They include Dozi, Bobby van Jaarsveld, Ray Dylan, Desmond Wells, Elvis Blue and Blackbyrd.
However, investors and interested parties in the town of Vredendal, where the festival is being held, approached le Grange to continue as the festival organiser.
“It’s been a long time since Steve has been at the festival and everyone in the town was excited to see him again. I feel he can add value to the festival in terms of ticket sales,” said le Grange.
On Thursday, mayor Jakes Botha dismissed the cancellation of the festival as rumours.
“We are not going to postpone anything because this or that singer won’t be coming,” he said.
Meanwhile, Hofmeyr said via his Twitter account that he is seeking legal advice. - BANG Showbiz