Anybody who stood in the massive crowd at the closing night of HIFA 2015 would have been impressed by the turnout, the quality of the sound, lights, and of course by the electrifying performance put on by Malian Afro rock-sensation Salif Keita. It marked the end of yet another successful HIFA week that brought more than 1,300 artists from 43 countries to the stage. Our photographer, Graham van de Ruit was busy throughout and brings you a selection that he feels captures the mood of HIFA 2015 – a very festive festival!

Gran’Mah – Mozambique’s hottest reggae fusion band spreading good vibes over main stage crowds on a warm afternoon.

The Handlebards put on Shakespeare’s “A Comedy of Errors” using pedal-power to entertain rapt crowds. This was one of HIFA’s most raved about shows.

 

 

 

 

 

Zimbabwe’s own Josh Meck brings bass to the fore with his unique jazz music.

High love, big love, for True Vibenation, who joined Gran’Mah for a riveting collaboration.

Portuguese songstress Lula Pena shares her sublime voice and emotive melodies with a captivated Lay’s Global Theater audience.

Light and movement… The atmosphere in and around the venues was a festive one with numerous food stalls, bars, coffee spots, gift and curios stalls, workshops, and children’s activities busy all day and night.

Guitar virtuoso Derek Gripper has transcribed Kora music to be played on guitar. He played three shows at HIFA 2015. His solo set (pictured) and two collaborations (Global Guitars and Tcheka) were all packed.

South African pianist and composer Kyle Shepherd also put on a brilliant show.

A fan at main stage sings to the moon, which was full by the end of the festival.

Flavour of the day – South African afro-rock powerhouse Beatenberg was one of the best selling shows at HIFA 2015.

‘Dressed to the nines’ – the festival was a photographer’s delight.

 Cover photo (top): The crowded Coke Green parties hard to local DJ Raydizz.