Dressed by invited Hollywoodbets Durban July designer Katherine Kidger, Anlia Etzebeth showcases a “Country Allure” inspired look alongside Hollywoodbets Durban July runner Wish List.
Image: Chase Liebenberg
Thousands of racegoers will pause for a special moment before the action begins at this year's Hollywoodbets Durban July as singer and actress Anlia Etzebeth takes centre stage to perform the South African national anthem.
For the performer, the honour is about far more than music. It is about bringing people together through a song that belongs to every South African.
The award-winning performer will sing the anthem at the 130th edition of the Hollywoodbets Durban July at Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse on Saturday, July 4, one of the country's biggest sporting and social events.
"Singing our national anthem at the 130th Hollywoodbets Durban July is an incredible honour and something I do not take for granted," she said.
"As a proudly South African artist, there is something deeply moving about standing before thousands of people and singing a song that unites us all."
The moment also brings back memories of another milestone in her life, when she performed the anthem before her husband, Springbok captain Eben Etzebeth, celebrated his 100th Test match.
"It brings back memories of singing the national anthem before my husband's 100th Test match for the Springboks. That was such an emotional and unforgettable milestone for our family, so to once again be entrusted with this responsibility is incredibly special," Anlia said.
While many fans will see a polished performance on race day, she said that preparing to sing the national anthem is about much more than perfect notes.
"I think with regards to preparation, one should take time to reflect on the meaning of our anthem and the responsibility that comes with singing it," she said.
"I wish to honour the moment with sincerity, respect and gratitude."
Racegoers can expect a heartfelt performance that reflects the significance of the occasion and sets the tone for one of South Africa's most anticipated annual events.
The Hollywoodbets Durban July is famous for combining world-class horse racing with fashion, entertainment and live performances. This year's “Country Allure" theme celebrates South African heritage, making Etzebeth's performance a fitting way to open the day's celebrations.
Away from the racecourse, Anlia has plenty to keep her busy. She revealed that fans can look forward to new music before the end of the year through an exciting collaboration.
"I am very excited as I am currently working on releasing another single this year. It is something I am working on together with Hollywoodbets," she said.
She has built a career across music, television and theatre. Before becoming a familiar face to many South Africans, she completed a BA Honours degree in Musical Theatre with distinction, laying the foundation for her work on stage and screen.
Television audiences know her from roles in “Getroud Met Rugby", where she played Sasha Richter, as well as appearances in "Suidooster”. She also appeared in the international science fiction series “Raised by Wolves”.
Performing under the stage name Anlia Star, she officially launched her commercial music career in 2019.
Her debut single “Plaaslewe” celebrated country life, while “Saam Suid Afrika", recorded with Robbie Wessels and Ruhan Du Toit, became a patriotic favourite among South Africans.
Now, as she prepares to stand before thousands of spectators at Hollywoodbets Greyville, Anlia hopes that her performance will remind South Africans of the power of unity.