Local learners take home thousands in prize money as community voting opens for an additional R10,000 school award
Learners from Spine Road High, Beacon School for LSEN and West End Primary emerged as the top performers at Liberty Promenade’s 15th annual Next Generation Musical Showcase, held this past weekend. Each school received R19,000 in prize money following an impressive display of musical talent, creativity and storytelling by learners from 11 local schools.
Eastville Primary and Eisleben Primary were also recognised for their outstanding performances, each receiving R14,000, while five individual learners received special awards for their exceptional talent and contribution to the showcase.
This year’s theme, En Route to Change, challenged learners to explore the idea of positive change through music, dance and storytelling. Using a creative street-sign-inspired concept, the schools brought their interpretations of the theme to life through live vocals, energetic choreography, rap and theatrical performances.
Now in its 15th year, the Next Generation Musical Showcase has become an important annual event for schools in Mitchells Plain, giving young performers an opportunity to develop their talents, build confidence and work together towards a shared creative goal. The competition also recognises the dedication of teachers who guide and prepare their learners for the stage.
Community invited to vote for R10,000 school prize
While the main competition has concluded, the excitement continues with the Next Generation Community Choice Award, which gives one participating school the opportunity to win an additional R10,000 towards school improvements. Members of the public are encouraged to support their favourite school by voting online at libertypromenade.co.za/community-choice-award before Sunday, 15 November 2026, at 23:59. Terms and conditions apply.
The award gives the wider Mitchells Plain community an opportunity to recognise the hard work and creativity of the participating learners while contributing towards improvements at a local school.
Celebrating 15 years of local talent
Over the past 15 years, Liberty Promenade’s Next Generation Musical Showcase has provided a platform for young people to express themselves through the performing arts while strengthening relationships between local schools and the wider community. This year’s performances were assessed by four judges: musical personalities Mujahid George, Kashiefa Blaauw and Mo George, and Heloise Mgcina, head of marketing and communications at Liberty Two Degrees, who brought their expertise and experience to the competition.
The event was also supported by local businesses, with Panarottis providing meals for participating learners and contributing spot prizes. Signature and Glitz sponsored makeup and makeup artists to help prepare performers for the stage, as well as additional audience prizes.
Liberty Promenade congratulates all the winning schools and individual award recipients and thanks the learners, teachers, judges, families and sponsors who contributed to the success of this year’s event.
For more information on Promenade and its projects, visit www.libertypromenade.co.za or follow Liberty Promenade on Facebook, Instagram @ libertypromenademall_za and TikTok @ libertypromenademall.
