Images Supplied by Cape Town Opera
If you’re looking for something fun (and free!) to do with your little ones this winter, Cape Town Opera has just the thing. Their much-loved Opera Blocks series is back, and this time it’s bringing Forest Friends to neighbourhood libraries across the city from 1–5 July 2025. The best part? Entry won’t cost you a cent – just be sure to book your tickets in advance!
In partnership with the Judith Neilson Foundation and the City of Cape Town, Opera Blocks Forest Friends promises to delight tiny theatre-goers aged 0 to 5. Picture this: a cosy library transformed into a magical forest where a sly fox sneaks through the shelves, a snail turns the pages of his favourite book at a snail’s pace (naturally), and curious little explorers can wander and engage with props in a snowy winter wonderland. Sounds adorable, right?
This brand-new production is directed by Elizma Badenhorst and packs a whole lot of charm into 40 minutes. Expect gentle music, beautiful visuals, and age-appropriate songs performed by Cape Town Opera’s top talent. Some of these brilliant singers recently wowed audiences in Aida, and now they’re taking on the roles of furry (and feathery) forest friends: Danielle Speckman as Zuri the Butterfly, Ntombizodwa Nkiso as Mimi the Mouse, Ernestine Stuurman as Nia the Deer, Sasha Damons as Bela the Bunny, and Judith Neilson Young Artists Sisikelelwe Mngenela (Luna the Owl) and Khayakazi Mdalala (Tilly the Squirrel).
The music? A gorgeous mix of classical favourites, including the Evening Prayer from Hansel und Gretel, and magical moments from The Nutcracker like the Waltz of the Flowers and the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy. It’s the perfect introduction to classical music for curious young minds — and there’s plenty of evidence that music like this can boost creativity and development.
Here’s where you can catch Forest Friends:
- 1 July: Athlone Library, 13h00
- 2 July: Edgemead Library, 10h00 & 14h00
- 3 July: Cape Town Central Library, 12h00 & 14h00
- 4 July: Hout Bay Library, 14h00
- 5 July: Langa Library, 11h00
So gather your mini adventurers, wrap up warm, and head to your nearest library for a magical musical experience. Just don’t forget to book your spot via Webtickets — these shows are sure to fill up fast!
