Peter Sarstedt to sing for our seals
The cover of Peter Sarstedt’s 1969 hit single. Photo courtesy Affendaddy
It may have been released back in 1969, but the classic folk song, “Where do you go to my lovely?” remains a favourite song of young and old the world over.
Exciting news for those who recall the song (and for those who don’t) is that Peter Sarstedt, the original performer of this smash hit, is on his way to South Africa to give an exclusive, intimate performance for 120 in Cape Town on September 30.
Two Oceans Aquarium will provide the serene setting for Sarstedt, who is travelling to South Africa as a guest of Sappi. He’s helping to raise funds and awareness for various environmental conservation organisations endorsed by Sappi, including the protection of Cape Town’s harbour seals – a project with which Two Oceans Aquarium is closely involved.
Tickets – which cost R180 and include a light meal (a cash bar will be available) – can be bought on the Aquarium’s website. Alternatively, visit the Aquarium’s ticket office between 09h30 and 17h00 daily. Seating is limited, so don’t delay.
Many of the seals that frequent the waters around the V&A Waterfront have straps or nooses cutting into their flesh, or scars from similar injuries.
Being playful, inquisitive animals, seals sadly fall victim to harbour pollution by swimming into the nooses. Over time the noose tightens and cuts into the flesh, causing wounds that, unless treated timeously, may ultimately lead to death. The sight of these injured seals is a cause of great concern and distress to members of the public.
Two Oceans Aquarium staff members Claire Taylor (assistant curator) and Vincent Calder (assistant technical manager) work closely with Mike Meyer of Marine and Coastal Management (MCM) to remove nooses from the seals and tag the animals.
Depending on the extent of the injury, it is sometimes necessary to restrain the seals to treat them. Meyer, Taylor and Calder have long envisaged a platform directly outside the Aquarium, which would enable them to “gate” an injured seal to quickly and effectively tend to the animal’s injuries.
“We are thrilled that Sappi, one of our founder partners, has agreed to assist us with yet another conservation initiative. Not only have they agreed to donate all the funds raised by the concert towards our seal project, but they have also committed to subsidising the outstanding amount required for the platform,” said Two Oceans Aquarium Communications and Sustainability Manager Helen Lockhart.
The concert is happening on September 30 at 19h00. Expect waves of nostalgia, inspiration and pure aural joy – bring your friends, parents and grandparents and help the Two Oceans Aquarium, Sappi and Sarstedt to help our seals.
Click here to read more about Two Oceans Aquarium’s conservation projects.
Bonus! Check out this video of Sarstedt performing on Top of the Pops in 1969 – wonderful vintage stuff!
