NIEU-BETHESDA NEWS - For six years now, Jacques Muller and Justin Duckitt have made a concerted effort to celebrate Christmas in July in order to bring a little cheer to the frigid iciness of Nieu Bethesda in winter.
The night before Christmas in July, the Compassberg was dusted in a light snowfall - perfect timing for the auspicious event.
This year, the French theme attracted a good number of guests suitably dressed for the occasion in many a red beret, moustache and stylish coat.
Gluwein in delicate cups was offered on arrival and before long Jacques introduced the audience to Emile Minnie - South Africa's talented cabaret star. With songs such as La vie en Rose, a smattering of Jingle Bells, an unusual Elvis rendition and Die Ruiter van Skimmelperdpan, Minnie soon had the audience captivated and readily participating in his eclectic line-up of songs accompanied by his talented piano playing.
The venue had been exquisitely decorated in the French theme, with Jacques' touches everywhere - bunting created from old embroidered serviettes, a delightful Parisian Patisserie, and a live painter in the form of the talented Marianke Lessing (who also assisted with the décor), added to the atmosphere. The show rollicked on into the coldest night of the year so far and everyone had a merry little Christmas in July.
Afterwards, Chef Chris and his team at Die Waenhuis served up a delicious dinner of creamy beef stroganoff and malva pudding which perfectly rounded off a truly memorable evening.
The talented and captivating Emile Minnie. Photos: Sarina Engelbrecht
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