Cinema to rock the OppiDam Musiekfees 2026
Cinema will bring the unmistakable sound of the 1980s to the OppiDam Musiekfees 2026 on October 2. For a generation that grew up with their music, it promises to be a trip down memory lane, while introducing a new generation to a band that continues to evolve.
For anyone who remembers the music, fashion and unmistakable atmosphere of the 1980s, the annual OppiDam Musiekfees 2026 is set to bring back some familiar memories when Cinema takes to the stage on Friday, October 2.
The festival at Vygeboom Dam will bring together a diverse line-up of artists over the weekend, including Nicholis Louw, Ivan Roux, Pieter Rischmüller and Band, Cinema, Narboth Mathole, Drommedaris, Freckled Elvis, Kris Ray and Coenie Naudé.
Over the coming weeks, De Kaap Echo will introduce readers to some of the artists who will be part of what promises to be a memorable weekend of music beside the dam. First up is Cinema, a band whose music became firmly embedded in the soundtrack of a generation. For South Africans who came of age during the 1980s, Cinema was far more than just another pop group. Their songs found their way onto radios, cassette players and dance floors, becoming part of the everyday soundtrack of young lives.
The band's 1987 breakthrough hit, My Kind of Girl, was followed by a string of Top 10 singles that established Cinema as one of the country's popular bands of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Songs such as Inside and Out remain particularly memorable for those who lived through the era, when music was recorded from the radio onto cassettes and a favourite song could be played until the tape nearly gave up.
Cinema toured extensively, developed a loyal following and even achieved international chart success. Although the years passed and members moved in different directions, the music continued to live on in the memories of their fans.
Today, Cinema is back on stage, bringing together the band's musical heritage with a renewed energy. The current line-up includes original members Chris Frank on bass and keyboards, Mike Todd on guitar and Larry Rose on drums. Stephan Nel has taken over lead vocals, while Connie Bentlage adds saxophone and keyboards to the line-up. The result is a band that celebrates its history without being trapped in it.
Cinema has continued to write and record new music, demonstrating that the band is not simply relying on nostalgia to keep its name alive. Recent releases, including Elephant in the Room and I Believe in You, reflect a group that has retained its melodic roots while embracing a more contemporary sound.
For long-time fans, however, hearing those familiar songs performed live is likely to be the real attraction. Music has a remarkable ability to transport people back to another time. A few opening notes can bring back memories of school days, first loves, old friendships, road trips and nights spent dancing until the early hours. Cinema's music has that ability for many South Africans who grew up during the 1980s.
For younger festival-goers, the performance offers an opportunity to discover why the band became such an important part of South African pop music in the first place. Cinema will take to the stage at 20:00 on Friday, October 2. The festival continues through Saturday night, with two days of live music and entertainment at OppiDam.
With the Lowveld sky as a backdrop and Vygeboom Dam providing the setting, the festival promises a combination of music, memories and a weekend away from the ordinary.
Accommodation at OppiDam is limited, and bookings are already open. Those planning to attend are encouraged to book early rather than risk missing out.
📞 WhatsApp: 066 327 1068
✉ Email: bookings@oppidam.co.za
🌐 Website: https://www.oppidam.co.za/
Anchen Coetzee
Anchen Coetzee
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