A Birthday, an Anniversary, and a Whole Lot of Music

Potchefstroom's NG Miederpark Gemeente will be alive with the sound of music on 6 April 2025, as the “Music Go-Round” concert takes the stage. This home-grown production marks two big milestones: internationally acclaimed soprano Amira Willighagen’s 21st birthday, and the 10-year anniversary of her charity project, Gelukskinders.

And yes, it’s not just about cake and candles. The organisers have gone full out with a musical tribute that hops across genres and time zones – hence the cheeky title “Music Go-Round,” a nod to the global musical journey and its merry-go-round style lineup.

Local Kids, Big Roles

This isn’t your average school play. The stage will be packed with young voices and faces from different walks of life, all drawn from the schools in and around Potch. The choir features singers aged 12 to 18, while the dancers hail from Ikalafeng School in Ikageng.

And for those who’ve always wondered what a Potchefstroom version of The Sound of Music might look like – wonder no more. The Von Trapp family has been completely reimagined with local talent, with Amira herself starring as Maria, everyone’s favourite nun-turned-nanny. But wait, there’s more – she’ll also be donning the hat and umbrella of Mary Poppins later in the show. Her father, Gerrit Willighagen, will join her on the organ, just to keep it in the family.

Local Stage, Local Crew

Everything from the musical directing to the lighting and costume design is being handled by Potch locals. The show is proudly homegrown, and every costume, spotlight and sound cue is being handled by members of the community. The NG Miederpark Gemeente, known for its impressive organ (and acoustics that don’t mess around), is the venue for the evening.

Nostalgia Meets Fresh Moves

Expect plenty of nods to the classics – the cast will be kitted out in outfits that’ll bring instant memories of old-school musicals. But don’t get too comfy – the choreography’s going to flip expectations on their heads. It’s familiar, but with a twist.

When, Where, and How Much?

📅 Date: 6 April 2025

🕕 Time: 18:00

📍 Venue: NG Miederpark Gemeente, 22 Aarbei Ave, Potchefstroom

🎟️ Tickets: R150 per person

🔗 Booking: Quicket Link

There’s no shortage of heart in this production – it’s a community effort through and through. Whether you’re a die-hard musical fan or just keen to see the local kids shine, this one’s worth the ticket.

And honestly, who says no to Mary Poppins, Maria, singing clocks and candle costumes all in one night?