Natascha, performing Afrikaans hits like “Lepellê” by Juanita du Plessis, needed backing tracks, and luckily for her, Henry-John, then a partner at Bluenote Recording Studio, was there to help. “The vivid memory of that rainy day, with Natascha navigating mud in impossibly high heels, remains a cherished memory for both of us,” he fondly chuckles.
By 2005, their collaboration deepened as they began jamming at Natascha’s house. She had already started composing original songs, and together they crafted their first cabaret show, Gee my oor aan die nag. Natascha composed all the music for this production, and the project marked the birth of her stage name, ‘Natascha C’. In 2010, they released a CD under the same title, debuting it in a venue that will once again host them in 2025 for their 21st year celebration show.
From this foundation, the pair created multiple productions that became staples at the Innibos National Arts Festival. Highlights included Oma Dekkers, My taal, Storie en lied met Annemarie van der Walt and Clemen Gold gin-tasting productions. During the pandemic, lockdown concerts from home kept their music alive.
Their incredible stage chemistry and deep camaraderie often led audiences to mistake them for a married couple. “Our fans often ask, ‘Where’s your wife?’ or ‘Where’s your husband?’” Henry-John says with a laugh. “We had to explain that it’s our ‘stage marriage’, not a real one.”
Life pulled the duo in different directions when Henry-John relocated, and Natascha focused on managing her family farm, but their mutual love of music and performing never faltered. Over time, they realised how much they missed the magic of being on stage together, which inspired them to plan a celebratory 2025 show titled 21 Years – Our Love for the Stage.
“A melody or familiar lyrics can transport someone emotionally within seconds. Music is a conversation starter, a unifier, and sometimes the heart of debate. I believe that life without music would lack depth and emotion.”
Natascha explains that music is more than just a performance; it’s a universal language that connects people. “It evokes deep emotions and helps you through tough times,” she says. “Music allows you to share passions without limits. There’s always room to grow.” Henry-John agrees, reflecting on the transformative power of music. “A melody or familiar lyrics can transport someone emotionally within seconds. Music is a conversation starter, a unifier, and sometimes the heart of debate. I believe that life without music would lack depth and emotion.”
Audiences have come to expect drama and elegance from Natascha’s performances. Known for her striking stage presence, she insists her appearance reflects her genuine personality. “What you see on stage is authentically me,” she smiles. “I love dressing up, but offstage, I’m just as happy in leggings and a T-shirt.”
Their mutual respect and easy-going friendship are the foundation of their partnership. Natascha says Henry-John understands the emotions she wants to convey through a song, and Henry-John echoes the sentiment by adding that the two read each other effortlessly on stage. “We create magic without ever having to overcomplicate things,” Henry-John echoes, noting how their creative synergy keeps their performances fresh and inspired. Over the years, the duo has shared countless memorable moments, from Sudwala Cave performances to their Innibos productions and special nights at Pretoria’s Pierneef Theatre. “We could spend hours reminiscing,” Natascha laughs. “Each performance brought us its own unique joy.”
The pair’s partnership has only strengthened with time. “We’ve taught each other through trial and error, experimenting with ideas until something felt right,” Henry-John reflects. “Natascha even introduced me to Dutch music, which I’ve grown to love.” Natascha values their effortless rapport, which she believes is a result of their enduring friendship. “Whether near or far, our connection always remains solid,” she says. “We respect each other’s space, and that respect has fortified our bond over the years.”
“We’re not ‘wing-it’ people,” Natascha says. “We give 100% each and every time we perform.”
Not every moment has been glamorous. “During a corporate event in Pilgrim’s Rest, the low ceiling of the venue posed rather a challenge. Luckily, Natascha is on the shorter side, and I was sitting at the piano,” Henry-John jokes. They also had the unusual privilege of performing at the opening – and later, the closing – of the same restaurant. Even in the face of challenges, their dedication to excellence shines. Both admit to being perfectionists who rehearse rigorously. “We’re not ‘wing-it’ people,” Natascha says. “We give 100% each and every time we perform.” Yet their adaptability and shared sense of humour ensure they can always handle any unexpected surprises thrown at them with aplomb and grace.
As they prepare for their milestone celebration, Natascha and Henry-John reflect on the journey that brought them here. For Natascha, songs like “La Vie en Rose” hold special meaning, while Henry-John treasures Natascha’s original composition “Straatkind”, inspired by the children in Maputo.
The show promises to be a heartfelt celebration of their shared journey, filled with nostalgia, laughter and, of course, music. After all, as they’ve learnt over the years, the magic of their partnership lies in their ability to keep evolving while staying true to themselves and their audience. With two decades of memories behind them and many more to come, Natascha and Henry-John are ready to remind audiences exactly why
their ‘stage marriage’ has stood the test of time.
Photographer: Stephan Schroeder
