One of the undoubted highlights of the celebratory year was the Festwoche or Festival Week held from 11 to 18 September.
Festivities started with the orchestra evening which involved four German schools of southern Africa performing under the guidance of well-known South African conductor Richard Cock. The hall was packed with just under 1 000 people who were also able to see talented musician Jann Klose perform.
The official opening ceremony was held on 12 September during the Volkfest, which proved to be a day of celebration where members of the school community dressed up in any item of clothing that represented the past 125 years. German food, drink and culture were the order of the day during this very festive occasion.
The week was all about celebrating history and this was best represented during the church service held at the Friedenskirche in Hillbrow. The DSJ was originally based in Hillbrow between 1897 and 1969 after Paul Kruger donated land to the school and church. The original school building may be long gone, but the church still stands today, and for the older members of the congregation, it was certainly a memorable occasion.
The premiere of the Woyzeck theatre production was held on 14 September. Deemed one of the biggest productions in the school’s history, both shows (a second show took place on 16 September) were well-received by the audience.
Most importantly, the festival week celebrated the school pupils and there was a day aimed at the pupils who enjoyed a wide variety of activities such as a session with the drummers of Drum Café, face-painting at the kindergarten, a primary school dance, planting of time capsules (which will be opened in 25 years), the creation and eating of a huge birthday cake and finally a massive Colour Fest.
“The DSJ is immensely proud of its status as a school of high academic success and it also gives back to the environment,” said school spokesperson, Savo Ceprnich.
“At the end of last year, the school was awarded International Flag Status as an eco-school. So subsequently on 18 September, the whole school was actively involved with the planting of trees and shrubs within the school property.”
The week concluded with a stunning grand ball and the school hall again played host to a gala dinner which ensured a festive conclusion to this monumental week.
Details: www.dsj.co.za
