In a night brimming with pizzazz, passion, and a sprinkle of safari magic, Rhino Africa celebrated its 20th birthday in grand style at the Baxter Theatre in Cape Town. The event, held on the 20th of July 2024, was nothing short of legendary, bringing together a full house of VIPs, including politicians, industry leaders, colleagues, family, and friends, to celebrate two decades of turning dreams into extraordinary adventures.
Rhino Africa's 20th anniversary at the Baxter Theatre was a night filled with fun, flair and all things fabulous
This is the Moment You've Waited For
The evening began with a dazzling spectacle, "The Rhino Show," a tribute to Rhino Africa’s incredible 20-year journey. Inspired by "The Greatest Showman", it told the story of one man's big dream and boundless imagination, revealing how he defied the odds to bring the magic and wonder of Africa to the world in ways never thought possible.
A story unfolded of one man's vision to share the wonders of Africa with the world
Special Stars
The show was crafted by an exceptional creative team, including Shelley Lothian, an esteemed choreographer, director, singer, actress, and dancer, along with musical directors Daniel Geddes and Wessel Odendaal. Their combined expertise made "The Rhino Show" a theatrical triumph.
"The Rhino Show" was a creative collaboration between many gifted individuals
It was a true musical masterpiece, featuring an all-star ensemble of talented performers, many of whom had previously shone in the award-winning rock musical "We Will Rock You". Stuart Brown, in particular, delivered a standout performance, embodying the role of our protagonist, David Ryan.
Stuart Brown delivered a standout performance
Also joining the mix was the ever-hilarious South African comedian Marc Lottering. His trademark humour, sharp observations and playful banter had the audience roaring with laughter as he narrated the wild rollercoaster ride of Rhino Africa's 20-year history.
Marc Lottering brought the house down with his comical antics
Sharing the stage with Lottering were our founder and CEO, David Ryan, and his 11-year-old son, Matthew. They shared amusing anecdotes about how Rhino Africa began as a dining room table start-up and flourished into the world's most-awarded safari company, adding a heartfelt touch to the evening.
Matthew joined in on the fun, sharing tales of his father and Rhino Africa's start as a small dining room venture
Adding to the fun was a delightfully eccentric ensemble, including some musical members of our Rhino Crash, the amusing "Fake-David-Attenborough" (thanks to the magic of AI) and the not-quite-boy band "Wrong Direction", making it a night full of surprises.
The performance from the aspiring boy band "Wrong Direction"
I've Got to Break Free
The audience was treated to a visual and auditory feast as the story unfolded, depicting David Ryan in 2004 as a restless, buttoned-up accountant stuck in a grey, monotonous world. Starting off with only a chunky, clunky computer, a dial-up modem, and a dream, he transforms into a visionary trailblazer, revolutionising luxury safaris.
Stuart depicting David in his accounting days, trying to convince his peers that there's so much more to life
This captivating tale was brought to life through catchy musical numbers, fabulous performances, and a few cheeky nods to the company's early challenges.
Against all odds and the scepticism of nay-sayers, David's dreams culminate in the inception of Rhino Africa
Louder, Louder Than a Lion
The show was punctuated with powerful ballads that not only entertained but also resonated with the spirit of Rhino Africa. Songs like "A Million Dreams", "Don’t Stop Believing", and "Roar" highlighted the company’s ethos of dreaming big and pushing boundaries.
An unforgettable night where soulful songs energised the entire theatre
From the empowering "Fight Song" to the anthemic "Raise Your Glass", the theatre buzzed with energy and celebration. The show was not just a retrospective of Rhino Africa's past 20 years – it was a toast to the future, filled with more extraordinary journeys, triumphs and unforgettable memories.
The Rhino Show was a resounding triumph
A Million Dreams for The World We're Gonna Make
Marc Lottering perfectly captured the crux of Rhino Africa's journey in his closing monologue:
“The last 20 years have certainly been a proverbial rollercoaster. From the growing pains of early infancy, to a hostile industry resistant to change. To success and growth. And then, from a few wrong turns and potholes to PE, to a couple of Coronas among friends, here we are. Legacies are built over time – and the legacy of Rhino Africa is not only here in the theatre tonight with all of you but in the memories and experiences of the countless individuals around the globe whose lives have been enriched by what you do here.”
Marc Lottering was not only comically brilliant but eloquently summarised Rhino Africa's incredible journey
So Raise Your Glass
After "The Rhino Show", the festivities continued in the Baxter Theatre's vast foyer with a lavish party complete with sumptuous food, exquisite drinks, and a dance floor that stayed packed all night.
As the evening drew to a close, there was a palpable sense of excitement for the future – new destinations to explore, new stories to tell, and new dreams to chase. Happy Birthday, Rhino Africa – here's to the next 20 years!
Feeling inspired? Contact us and fulfil your very own African Dream.