Did you know that Dutch songs are still being sung in Cape Town today, even though they have largely disappeared from collective memory in the Netherlands?
These songs have been passed down from generation to generation and form part of the rich cultural heritage of the Cape Malay and Creole communities.
On July 4, a quintet of top vocalists from the Cape Malay community presents a repertoire of Dutch songs. These have been preserved through generations of descendants of enslaved people from the VOC era. Performed by young cultural bearers, this music is closely connected to a history of colonial legacy and emancipation.
On July 4, short 10-minute performances will take place in the Golden Hall of the Mauritshuis at 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, and 17:00. Admission is free, but a museum ticket is required and capacity is limited.
Performers
The performers are young artists who proudly continue this tradition:
- Rafeeq Domingo
Ameen “Bruno” Hernandez
Wazier Salie
Taurik “Tolla” Blignaut
Abdu-Daiyaan Floris
The music tells not only a story of heritage, but also of memory, survival, and connection between worlds.
