OLAF returns to reimagine Windhoek’s creative spaces

The Otjomuise Live Arts Festival (OLAF) is set to return for its sixth edition from 31 October to 1 November 2025, transforming the streets of Windhoek into an open canvas of live performances, storytelling, and creative exchange.This year’s theme, “A Garden of Expression: Cultivating Community Through the Arts,” promises a fresh approach to connecting people through creativity. The festival will take place at Zoo Park, offering a weekend of free public performances designed to engage audiences from all walks of life.Jointly produced by the Goethe-Institut Namibia and the National Theatre of Namibia (NTN) with support from the National Arts Council of Namibia , OLAF has become one of the country’s most anticipated cultural events. It continues to challenge the traditional notion of art spaces by bringing performances directly to the people.According to Michelle Namases, Festival Co-Director at the Goethe-Institut Namibia, OLAF has always been about bridging the gap between art and everyday life.“Since its inception in 2021, OLAF has aimed to bridge the gap between art and everyday life. The festival has continuously pushed the boundaries of public art, emerging at a time when a dedicated public arts policy was still non-existent,” Namases said.She added that over the years, the festival has taken art to unexpected corners of Windhoek.“From classical music performances in Goreangab to participatory art with pensioners and dance showcases on the hills of Babylon, OLAF has redefined how art interacts with our local public space,” she noted.Namases said the festival is proud to provide artists in Windhoek with opportunities to showcase their talents while transforming the city through creativity and collaboration.“This year’s theme, A Garden of Expression, explores the idea of nurturing artists and planting the seeds of creativity that will eventually lead to a blossoming creative scene in Windhoek,” she added.This year’s edition will differ from previous years in its focus on interactive and participatory programming. Day one, themed ‘Planting the Seeds,’ will feature dance, acoustic music, spoken word, and live band performances from artists such as Kula Rodriguez, Zingerwings, Ori, Ou Slow, and the Botselo Band.Day two, titled ‘Full Bloom,’ shifts to storytelling and collective movement, including performances by NAJA, Maria, Solve X, and Steven Afrikaner’s Band, along with a closing act to wrap up the weekend.

OLAF returns to reimagine Windhoek’s creative spaces

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Namibian Sun 2026-01-20

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OLAF returns to reimagine Windhoek’s creative spaces

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Namibian Sun 2026-01-20

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