Cape Town Arts & Theatre

With its melting pot of people and cultures, the South African arts arena is one that is extemely diverse. From traditional African dance to jazz, stand-up comedy, ballet and theatre. There is always a variety of excellent local productions on offer - which will leave you with a distinctly South African feel.

In order to see what's happening, where and when - consult the local newspapers, or contact Computicket (tel: 083 915 8000 or at most major shopping malls) for enquiries and bookings.

Artscape Theatre Complex (City Centre) - large productions including ballet, opera and dance.

Baxter Theatre Complex (Rondebosch) - contemporary theatre

On Broadway (Greenpoint) - revues, cabaret and world-class drag

Maynardville Open-Air Theatre (Wynberg) - Shakespeare with a local twist

Spier Amphitheatre (Stellenbosch) - opera, musical concerts

Theatre on the Bay (Camps Bay) - upmarket contemporary theatre, including restaurant.

Armchair Theatre (Observatory) - anything goes, a variety of local artists


Festivals

Cape Town is home to a number of famous jazz musicians and there are at least two jazz festivals worth noting - the North Sea Jazz Festival in March and the Standard Bank Jazzathon in January. In January, the Cape Minstrels perform in the streets of the city -with their bright costumes and distinctive style. From November to April Kirstenbosch Gardens host the Summer Sunset Concert series - all manner of music is presented from opera to rock to the local philharmonic orchestra. It's a family affair and you can enjoy an afternoon picnic in beautiful surroundings.

 

Concert
The Sunday afternoon concerts at Kirstenbosch Gardens are ideal for a casual picnic.

 


Art Galleries

For art of a different kind, visit the South African National Gallery in the Company's Gardens in the city centre for a display of local art from paintings to sculpture. The Gold of Africa musuem in Strand Street showcases a large collection of gold artefacts and offers a working studio and gold boutique. There are various other art galleries with a selection of local work for sale - notably in Claremont, Kalk Bay and Hout Bay as well as the V&A Waterfront.

 

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 TIPS

 >  For a relaxed evening of jazz head to the Green Dolphin at the Waterfront. Live performaces every evening.

 >  Shakespeare lovers should not miss out on the annual production held at Maynardville open-air theatre in Wynberg in January/February.  Bring along a picnic to enjoy in the park prior to the play. Its best to book in advance, although tickets can also be bought at the gate.