Sound, colour as revellers ring in new year

Published Jan 2, 2014

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Cape Town - About 21 000 Capetonians descended on the Grand Parade to usher in 2014 with live performances, 3D visual features, a tribute to Madiba and a 10-minute fireworks display that culminated in a kaleidoscope of electric celebrations.

It was the official New Year’s Eve party for Cape Town, and mayor Patricia De Lille also used the R4-million event to celebrate the city’s 2014 World Design Capital status.

A further 10 000 people were seated along Darling, Adderley and Wale Streets to witness the Minstrels Nagtroepe, while Long Street was closed off, with thousands of party-goers filling the street.

“Capetonians never needed an invitation to a party. The idea behind it is to bring people together from all walks of life.

“Our World Design status is aimed at bridging the divide of the old order, and what better way to do that than with a free party for all Capetonians,” De Lille said.

The parade came alive when R&B superstar Toya Delazy took to the stage with popular hit Hard Rock and other favourites.

“Cape Town, keep staying fresh. You guys have a beautiful city and it keeps on rocking,” she told the crowd after her two-hour performance.

Local DJs Ready D, Fresh and popular club DJ Dr Jules entertained the crowd on a triangular stage designed to amplify an electro-dance party environment.

Concert-goer Jamy Abrahams from Athlone said: “This party is 1 000 times better than going to a club. The performance by Ready D and DJ Fresh was the best. I loved every second of the fireworks.”

Nazier Jacobs from Manenberg said: “It was great to be here. It is safe – there is no alcohol or rowdiness – just a great atmosphere with family and other people from Cape Town.”

Mayco member for tourism and events Grant Pascoe said they aimed to make the city the events capital of the continent.

“We have pulled out all the stops this festive season to present the very best of the city’s unique and diverse cultures.

“It is inclusive events like this that unite our communities and afford us the opportunity to welcome our numerous visitors in a vibrant spirit.”

Five minutes before the countdown to 2014, a 3D mapping display commemorating the life of Nelson Mandela lit up the city hall’s façade.

The national flag, areas of Cape Town and the World Design promotional video were also featured.

“In 2014, we will celebrate 20 years of freedom and democracy. Let us use this opportunity to work to put aside the old design principles of apartheid that sought to divide us and create a new city that embraces design and is open and accessible to all.

“Cape Town will take the lead in building the new South Africa that former president Nelson Mandela dreamed of,” De Lille said.

Festivities ended with the Cape Town Minstrels march. They will also celebrate Tweede Nuwejaar with a colourful street march on Saturday. - Cape Times

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