The term flamjangled has solidified itself into the Cape Town lexicon. The second annual Tea Party offered a smorgasbord of delight accompanied by a genre bending soundtrack , costumed revelry and tea inspired libations. Brought to life by Good Times Events and the fantastic team behind Balkanology, the party proved itself one of Cape Town’s most impressively executed music festivals.

The Tea Party garden provided the just what the Mad Hatter would’ve ordered to transport oneself to another place and time. A place where Little Bo-Peeps and their sheep roam and the sky is a moving mix of circus colours.

The special alchemy of sun, lyrical adventures and magic tea potions ignited the Contermanskloof Wine Farm. The Party was a playground suitable for all ages, where people seemed to let go of daily city life and inhibit the world of wonder and adventure associated with childhood.

The evening sessions got off to a rolling start with a Foxtrot Fandango lesson accompanied by the Dixie Swingers. Hailing from another era, their tuba and banjo got the crowd jiving along to New Orleans-styled classics. Mr. Cat and the Jackal gave a jaw dropping performance as each member wore a larger than life effigy of their head. These prolific musicians have recently launched their new album. Between Rob van Vuuren’s satirical emceeing, Fletcher’s skills on the decks and the Black Orchid Burlesque troupe’s shows, a fantastical musical showcase ensued. It was all about getting and looking a little shmangled in true, slightly bizarre Flamjangled style.

For those in attendance, the Flamjangled Tea Party was certainly one of the most talked about events of the year. For those who missed out, its reputation is setting it up to be the most anticipated party for 2012. Tea time folks…

Words: Ashlee Valdes
Photography: Ernst Lass