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Although the traditional black and white minstrel shows are thought of as un-P.C. by most, minstrels come out in force at the Kaapse Klopse of Cape Town Minstrels Carnival, though in reverse! In 1848 as a protest against their former masters, ex-slaves whited up their faces and sung songs parodying the behaviour of important local figures and the tradition has been passed down through families ever since.

Around 13,000 white faced minstrels don their brightly coloured garb and musical instruments and parade through the streets of Cape Town on New Years Day (traditionally the slaves only day off.). Many important local acts now become part of the minstrel shows and historically this was a way for dark skinned South Africans to become involved in the music industry.

The parades congregate in Greenpoint Stadium where there is more singing, dancing, music, costume competitions and lots of boisterous behaviour.

Written by  World Reviewer Staff.

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