Set on the scenic slopes of Constantia Nek, Drumstruck offers one of Cape Town’s most immersive cultural experiences.
What began as a South African stage production went on to light up Broadway and captivate global audiences, including royalty, world leaders and international stars such as Shakira and Dolly Parton.
Today, Drumstruck has found a permanent home at Silvermist Organic Wine Estate, where interactive African drumming, theatre, rare traditional instruments, wine tasting and a generous South African braai come together in one unforgettable outing.
Here are ten reasons Drumstruck at Silvermist deserves a place on your Cape Town summer itinerary:
An authentic introduction to South African culture
Drumstruck is grounded in decades of research into traditional African music. Its creators have built an extensive archive of instruments, books and oral histories documenting Southern Africa’s musical traditions.
This work has led to the publication of a definitive book on African traditional music and to the creation of an orchestra of indigenous instruments dedicated to preservation.
This depth of knowledge shapes the entire experience and allows guests to connect with South Africa in a genuine and meaningful way.
You become part of the show
Every guest receives a drum and plays along as the cast guides the audience through rhythm and song. With humour and warmth, strangers are transformed into a single ensemble.
Musical experience is not required. The atmosphere is relaxed, playful and inclusive, and the shared participation creates a powerful sense of togetherness rarely found in traditional theatre settings.
A living museum of African music
The Drumstruck theatre also functions as a museum housing the largest private collection of traditional Southern African instruments.
Many are demonstrated live during the show, including the Ngoma Lungunda (God Drum), Royal Ghana Drums, Uhadi bow, kudu horns, Pedi pipes, Venda nanga, log drums, and historic mbiras.
More than entertainment, a learning experience
Guests learn how everyday cultural practices shaped the instruments and rhythms heard today. From Bushman trance harmonies to Zulu and Tswana dance traditions, the show explores how stick fighting, log drumming and mielie pounding influenced the evolution of instruments such as the marimba and akadinda.
A highlight for many is learning a traditional Xhosa wedding song.
World-class performers, up close
The cast includes some of South Africa’s most accomplished singers, dancers and percussionists, including Mpho Rasenyalo and Tumelo Seleke.
These artists have performed on Broadway, opened the Beijing Olympics and shared stages with global icons such as Will.i.am, Linkin Park and Dolly Parton. At Drumstruck, audiences experience this calibre of performance in an intimate setting, seated just metres from the stage.
A braai that reflects true South African hospitality
Lunch or dinner is served as a traditional South African braai featuring flame-grilled chops, chicken, boerewors, pap and chakalaka, fresh salads and garlic bread. A sweet treat follows for dessert.
Vegetarian and halaal options are available, and the setting sun over the Twelve Apostles completes the experience.
Live marimba music that extends the magic
During the braai, guests are entertained by a leading marimba ensemble led by award-winning musicians Zama Qambi and Lungelwa Mdivasi.
Their vibrant rhythms and harmonies carry the show’s energy into the meal, featuring familiar favourites such as Malaika, Summertime, and the Click Song, alongside traditional Zulu dance music that often inspires spontaneous singing and dancing.
A breathtaking setting and organic wines
Silvermist Organic Wine Estate offers sweeping lawns and panoramic views of the Twelve Apostles. Guests begin with a tasting of four award-winning wines while listening to stories of the Constantia Valley shared by winemaker Gregory Brink Louw or the estate sommelier.
The combination of mountain views, storytelling and exceptional wines feels both indulgent and deeply rooted in place.
An outing for every generation
Drumstruck is one of the few Cape Town experiences that truly works for all ages. While adults enjoy wine tasting, children and non-drinkers are offered iced tea tastings.
Kids can roam the lawns and interact with farm animals, while adults relax and enjoy the music and scenery. The drumming brings everyone together, making the experience lively, welcoming and inclusive.
Exceptional value for a premium experience
With tickets for the Drumstruck show starting at R280, guests gain access to an internationally recognised production at an accessible price point. Visitors can choose the show only, add a wine tasting, or enjoy the full wine-and-braai experience.
Visitors consistently describe Drumstruck as life-changing, the highlight of their trip, and one of the most joyful experiences in Cape Town. The message at its heart is simple. When you experience Drumstruck, you fall in love with South Africa.
For more information, visit https://drumstruck.com/
Dining and Cooking