Recital

A term used for a solo performance of a musical nature or, at one period, even for a performance of a verbal nature.

A popular pastime in England and the colonies, including South Africa in the 19th century and early 20th century. In theatrical terms this was applied particularly to a solo (or group) programme of verse, prose and/or dramatic sketches as part of an evening of theatre, various public occasions, solo performances, etc. Often done by a trained vocal artist or elocutionist.

Gradually declined in popularity in English, though it retained its popularity into the 20th century, and even regained important stature in the Afrikaans tradition during the evolutiopn of the festival circuit in in the late 20th and even early 21st centuries. (Often referred to as a Voordragprogram).

See also Elocutionist

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