STELLALANDER-VRYBURG: The Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra (Mzansi Philharmonic), in partnership with Ster-Kinekor, proudly announces the world première of its concert film, Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, directed by award-winning filmmaker Francois Verster.
The film was screened nationwide from 25 to 30 July 2025, offering South African audiences a historic cinematic experience. Conducted by the acclaimed Marin Alsop, this groundbreaking concert film was recorded live at Cape Town City Hall in 2022.
It marks the first time a South African orchestra’s rendition of Beethoven’s iconic symphony will be presented in a cinematic format across the country. Bongani Tembe, CEO and Artistic Director of the orchestra and executive producer of the film, shared, “This historic presentation showcases the famous Ode to Joy reimagined with a uniquely South African spirit. Featuring Grammy award-winner Wouter Kellerman and his ensemble, alongside the integration of Zulu alongside the original German text, the film celebrates our nation’s rich linguistic diversity and artistic expression.” Lynne Wylie, Head of Marketing at Ster-Kinekor, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration: “We’re proud to partner with the Mzansi Philharmonic to bring this world-class cultural event to cinemas nationwide. Cinema has the power to connect audiences through powerful stories, and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 Concert Film tells a story of joy, unity, and cultural fusion. This cinematic first is an event not to be missed.” The project aims to deepen civic pride by fostering appreciation for South African artists and encouraging broader engagement with the creative sector. It targets diverse audiences, including students, arts enthusiasts, and the wider public, inspiring the next generation of South African musicians and artists. Nicole Haynes, Business and Tour Manager and associate producer, highlighted the orchestra’s excitement: “Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 speaks to universal emotions of hope, joy, and resilience.
Through this cinematic experience, we invite audiences from all backgrounds to connect and celebrate our shared humanity and cultural richness.” Filmmaker Francois Verster added, “This film offers a new way of experiencing a symphony concert, not replacing the live event but creating an immersive cinematic journey that places the viewer alongside the musicians on stage.” Beyond its artistic value, the film supports South Africa’s creative economy, a key contributor to GDP and employment. Mzansi Philharmonic’s first national tour in December 2022 created jobs for over 250 artists, including musicians, choirs, visual artists, and guest performers. Through tours and this film, the orchestra broadens access to orchestral music and promotes South African culture both locally and internationally. The concert film will be shown at various Ster-Kinekor cinemas nationwide, including in: V&A Waterfront, Cape Town; Tygervalley, Cape Town; Blue Route Mall, Cape Town;
Somerset Mall, Somerset West; Rosebank Nouveau, Johannesburg; Eastgate Shopping Centre, Johannesburg; Brooklyn Commercial, Pretoria; Watercrest Mall, Hillcrest (Durban) and Garden Route Mall, George. Tickets are available at all Ster-Kinekor outlets and online, giving South Africans the chance to experience one of the world’s most celebrated symphonic works on the big screen. For more information and tickets, visit the Ster-Kinekor website.
