KNYSNA GEARING UP TO HOST MAJOR SPRING FOOD AND CULTURAL FESTIVAL
Moments Communications and Events

Nominated as the most beautiful town in South Africa for two years running, Knysna, situated on the idyllic Garden Route, is springing into action to host the first food and cultural festival from 22 September – 2 October 2005. Called GASTRONOMICA, this festival is 10 days jam packed full of a kaleidoscope of events revolving around a fusion of food, wine, music, art and culture. GASTRONOMICA will be an annual event and is scheduled during the September school holidays with plenty to do for the whole family.

Pat Mulder , the initiator and driving force behind GASTRONOMICA says: "With less than 3 weeks to go, the GASTRONOMICA programme has been fine-tuned with the finishing touches being added to present an approach to celebrate life with meaning. GASTRONOMICA is a celebration of all that is extraordinary, good and honest in food, wine music, performing arts and art and will be presented with passion, love and enjoyment.” With two years in the planning after emulating the well known Nederburg Arts Festival but with a pinch of difference , GASTRONOMICA prides itself in quality rather than quantity and will leave everyone booking their tickets for next year.

GASTRONOMICA is a non-profit organisation and newly established Section 21 company. The dynamic and diverse founding members include Jacqui MacGeeham, outstanding business woman, the Executive Mayor of Knysna, Joy Cole, Deputy Mayor, Eleanor Bouw, Pat Mulder, Director of CMAI and Indaba Beleggings and other prominent role players in the community. They are all dedicated to community development.

GASTRONOMICA’s objective is to create an energy that unifies Knysna through education and entertainment and to explore opportunities to develop job creation in the hospitality and tourism industry. GASTRONOMICA in conjunction with Checkers sponsored 100 previous disadvantaged individuals of which 20 have trainee chefs have qualified as waitrons and 3 as chefs and will be showcased during the festival.

The official opening of GASTRONOMICA is on Thursday, 22 September and will take the form of an official go-ahead. The whole community of Knysna is invited to participate in this symbolic occasion to symbolise fellowship, unity and to honour the key factor that brings everyone and everything together. A 160 strong choir will lead the proceedings.

SA gourmet sensation Reuben Riffel, joint owner of Reuben’s restaurant and Vanie Padyachee, executive chef of Grande Provence bring their culinary expertise from Franschhoek while local artisans such as Geoffrey Murray and Thelo van Wyk, Zachary’s, Pezula, Damian Dearlove, previously executive chef with the Mantis Collection and now opening a new fine dining experience in Thesen Harbour Town called ”Lush, Liezie Mulder co-owner with Markus Farbinger of île de païn in Thesens Harbour Town, catering guru Tammy Turner from Hungryheads Gourmet Food and Dee Hartley in house chef and co-owner the world famous Mackintosh’s Country Store and Fine Food Emporium all promote Knysna’s impeccable reputation of quality, excellence and distinction which is enabling this town to fast becoming one of the country's major culinary centres.

The Institute of Culinary Arts ( ICA) based in Stellenbosch is also fundamental in the success of GASTRONOMICA participating in various events. The goal of ICA is to cultivate a generation of world class chefs to enrich the food world with their inspired approach and culinary vitality, trained to challenge conformity by pushing boundaries, bringing with them excitement and a fresh approach to the world of food.

Leticia Prinsloo, founder of ICA says: ”Cheffing is the ultimate combination of science and art. The science is needed to combine ingredients within given principles. The artistic interpretation gives room for play and creativity - always expressing the individual’s own style, passion and insight.”

Entertainment is provided at events by our Proudly South African artist Patricia Lewis. François Ferreira who is known for his contemporary and quirky approach to South Africa’s rich and diverse food culture adds some food comedy to the collection of events. Well known band Knysna Jazz Quartet has mentored young aspirant musicians who will be shadowing the band and learning the ropes for a future in the music industry.

An international flare involves showcasing chefs including Jody Adams, owner of the world famous Rialto Restaurant in Boston and En-Ming Hsu, Gold Olympic Patisserie winner while some of the best South Africa has on offer will participate in events that are innovative, thought provoking but yet educational and entertaining.

A GASTRONOMICA Restaurant Route has been established where participating restaurants in and around Knysna serve wholesome dishes on their menu using only the freshest of ingredients available.

Delicious cocktails are enjoyed on the GASTRONOMICA Art Route where art galleries in the town exhibit their various genres.

For more information, a full programme of events and on-line bookings visit gastronomicakny.co.za or Tel: +27 (0)44-382 4048/9. For high resolution pics contact Lynn Giles on [email protected]

Issued By:
Lynn Giles
Moments Communications and Events
Email: [email protected]
Cell: 082 940 9035

Issued on: 7 September 2005