Artscape

29/09/2024

𝐂𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐚 𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐫: 𝐑𝐞𝐟𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐧 𝐎𝐮𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐏𝐚𝐬𝐭

The recently concluded took us on a profound journey through South Africa’s colonial history and its connection to the Netherlands. This performance highlighted the stories of the Indigenous San and Khoi communities, who have called South Africa home for thousands of years and stood firm against settlers and the Dutch East India Company (VOC).

Adapted for theatre, the tour navigated through The Castle of Good Hope and other significant sites, offering a powerful exploration of Indigenous narratives, the history of slavery in the Cape, and Dutch colonisation. CAMISSA, or "place of sweet waters," served as a poignant reminder of water's role in cleansing and healing.

Directed by Luke De K**k and supported by (Netherlands Consulate & Embassy in South Africa) and Artscape, this project engaged audiences in a new perspective on history, heritage, and culture through performance.

Photo: Jeremeo Le Cordeur

27/09/2024

🎤 𝐃𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐧 𝐎𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐀𝐫𝐭𝐬𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐞! 🎤

Get ready for the final run of Dalin Oliver’s international award-winning stand-up comedy show, 90 Day Comedian, back by popular demand! Last year’s run was a sellout success, and we’re excited to do it again.

This coming-of-age story from Cape Town’s former teacher-turned-comedian offers a fresh perspective on life after spending time abroad. Returning home and performing for his fellow South Africans is a career highlight and a dream come true.

Don’t miss this chance to experience Dalin’s unique humour and relatable storytelling. See you at the show—Awe!

🗓 From November 19th - 30th 2024

🎟 Tickets available at Webtickets

26/09/2024

JUST IN: Die Burger have chosen Artscape as their number one theatre!

On behalf of everyone at FMR, huge congratulations to Le Roux and her team. We are so proud to be an Artscape associated company
Readers of Die Burger have chosen Artscape as their number one theatre!
“What an achievement!” says Marlene le Roux, CEO of Artscape. “Wow! Once again Artscape has been voted the preferred theatre of choice by readers of Die Burger It is wonderful to see the theatre complex highlighted as a jewel of performing arts in the Western Cape, and that we are acknowledged for adding value to the arts.
With tireless dedication we have welcomed thousands of patrons through our doors the past year. The fact that we’ve won gold once again is testament to the joy and satisfaction these patrons have experienced when attending performances.”

26/09/2024

𝘼 𝙇𝒐𝙤𝒌 𝑩𝙖𝒄𝙠 𝙖𝒕 𝑷𝙡𝒂𝙨𝒕𝙤𝒏: 𝘿𝑵𝙎-𝙆𝒊𝙣𝒅 𝒃𝙮 𝙋.𝙂. 𝒅𝙪 𝙋𝒍𝙚𝒔𝙨𝒊𝙨 (1974)

As we celebrate Heritage Month, we reflect on the rich legacy of South African theatre. One such groundbreaking production is Plaston: DNS-Kind, a thought-provoking drama that delves into the ethics of artificial human creation and societal integration.

Set in the remote village of Aardendal, the story follows Plaston, a being created by scientists, who meets society for the first time at the age of 19. The village serves as a microcosm of society, featuring characters like the village idiot, the beautiful Kotie, and the preacher Genopen, who symbolises both Genesis and Revelation.

Devoid of evil, Plaston longs to experience human emotions, yearning for love and pain. As he begins to break free from his programmed existence, the scientists monitoring him grow increasingly troubled by his newfound independence.
Plaston: DNS-Kind won the W.A. Hofmeyr Prize in 1973, and its 1993 radio broadcast earned Robert Young an Artes award for Best Director.

As we honour South Africa’s theatrical heritage this month, let’s celebrate productions like Plaston that challenged societal norms and contributed to our vibrant cultural landscape.

25/09/2024

🎶 𝟱𝟯𝗿𝗱 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗖𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗿𝘁: 𝗔 𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗻𝘁! 🎶

Join us on 5 October 2024 for the 53rd Youth Classical Concert, hosted by Artscape in collaboration with the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, with support from the City of Cape Town. This remarkable event will showcase the extraordinary talent of young, classically trained performers, offering them a chance to shine on a professional stage.

𝙀𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙘𝙖𝙥𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙨 𝙗𝙮 𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙧𝙜𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙨, 𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙡𝙪𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜: Caleb Thomas, Carmen Traut, Catherine Stiff, Chanda Lupambo, Charlotte Alexander, Corban Beukes, Ethan Lawson, Gilah Kellner, Karabo Rabaloi, Loren Ehlers, Nathan Huysamen, Sashon Johnson, and Sisa Mjekula.

This concert celebrates the future of classical music and highlights the dedication and talent of our young stars, all under the baton of Bernhard Gueller.

Don’t miss this chance to witness the next generation of classical stars!

📅 At Artscape on Saturday 5 October 19:30

🎟️ Tickets Available at Webtickets

Photos: Jeremeo Le Cordeur

24/09/2024

Part 4: Random Acts of Care and Collaboration on HERITAGE DAY

Technical staff supporting Artists from all over the world to share collective our heritage of theatre. Disney Magic Box at work with a South African Flavor. Go Msanzi!

MAKING MAGIC behind the scenes
Finally Marlene makes her way backstage behind the curtains to charge up the high-octane energy with the cast warming up for Disney’s The Magic Box – opening October 9.

A US-SA production this is one NOT to be missed.
It’s not just the cast revving up the magic though – behind the scenes team and technical staff all have a stake in the success working right through a public holiday.

‘Heritage is not just your history or mine’, says Marlene, ‘it’s our combined wealth as a country. So let’s collaborate and celebrate – together!’

24/09/2024

Part 3: Random Acts of Care and Collaboration on HERITAGE DAY

Random acts of kindness (RAK’S). Young people from all over SA practicing UBUNTU.

YOUNG PEOPLE get into the spirit of PERFORMANCE

All the way from Paarl, a group of learners from Paarl Vallei school visit the theatre centre as part of the AKTV action. Marlene shares some words of encouragement to practice Ubuntu – and ‘to be the very best you can be!’

24/09/2024

Part 2: Random Acts of Care and Collaboration on HERITAGE DAY

Artscape Embracing poignant story of Aikhona personified by Wirewoman Gender Based Voilence is not part of our Heritage.

WIRE WOMAN raises voices against GENDER BASED VIOLENCE

Leading the way for everyone, starting with Artscape’s own staff, to UP for CHANGE and speak out against GBV, on a rainbow tag Marlene writes her message: GBV is NOT part of our Heritage!

In her new outfit Woman Zone’s Wire Woman, Artscape’s iconic female statue, is dressed in a new outfit as Akhona - Survivor representing all women who have taken back control of their lives. Over the coming weeks leading up to and including the 16 Days of Activism, all patrons visiting Artscape are invited to share their idea of how GBV can be stamped out. Let’s make sure our voices are heard!

24/09/2024

Part 1: Random Acts of Care and Collaboration on HERITAGE DAY

INTER-ACTION with artist MANFRED ZYLLA
Starting the day at Iziko South African National Gallery, sister entity to Artscape, CEO Marlene le Roux celebrates with resistance artist Manfred Zylla as he revisits his powerful apartheid era work in an exhibition entitled “I Never Liked it Here”

23/09/2024

𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐭 𝐀𝐫𝐭𝐬𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐞

It is September, South Africa’s Heritage month and this year we also celebrate 30 years of democracy. At Artscape during this special month we have a profusion of cultural innovation to match the promise of spring. To top the superb display of talent at the annual Rainbow Rhythms Concert and Variety Gala, we featured an international exhibition and the launch of a new project with global reach.

September is a time for Artscape to celebrate South Africa’s diversity, to honour living legacies and to showcase our impact on the global stage.

A weekend of festivities called Reach for the Stars, opened on Friday, 13 September at a special event attended by a range of local and international dignitaries. This event also marked the
opening of the SKA Observatory’s Cosmic Echoes Shared Sky Indigenous Art Exhibition: Australian and South African Indigenous artists explore creativity at the intersection of
modern science and ancient wisdom.

Simultaneously the opening event saw the launch of the Tamaaf Project. This is a global collaboration and is an artistic response to the notion of politicians and leaders apologising for slavery, colonialism and historic aggression in recent times. Tamaaf is a Cape Malay word that means ‘sorry’.

“For Indigenous people all of creation has a spiritual essence and the stars have governed our behaviour since ancient times. The Universe speaks in a soft language that the Ancients understood. The heart of the artist perceives the echoes of the softness and shares it with the world. And, elsewhere on the landscape of understanding, scientists unravel the very same messages,” says the Cosmic Echoes Exhibition text.

Prominent First Nations Leaders, as well as the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in SA – they supported the Reach for the Stars Festival and Cosmic Echoes Exhibition – HE Joanne Doornewaard and the Consul General, the Hon Hélène Rekkers, attended. The Kingdom of the Netherlands is a partner for various projects with Artscape.

Ambassador Doornewaard said she has visited the SKAO site in the Northern Cape and added:

“Heritage is, indeed, something to celebrate, but as well as the gifts, we carry the burdens of our forefathers. As South Africa and the Netherlands, our histories are deeply connected, and the implications of these ties are felt today. We believe that to build a meaningful relationship for the future, we have to move forward with this past, and that means facing it and understanding the meaning of this past. Arts give us a platform where people from different backgrounds can meet and explore difficult, complex challenges together.”

Welcoming the guests the Artscape CEO, Dr Marlene Le Roux, said:

“Today we travel a journey. Scientists and artists are coming together. Sometimes we put everything in a box. Nothing is in a box. We're all one. You can't remove science from arts and arts from science. Because the importance of artists is that it's the emotion and the soul and the connection of people that's been captured. Hence this project is very, very special.”

Ms Letebele Masemola-Jones, the SKAO Mid Communications and Engagement Manager, explained the background to the Cosmic Echoes project:

“We are in remote parts of Australia and South Africa and within those remote parts are people of the soil. They are our original peoples… the essence of our humanity. Whilst we have the most incredible technology, the most incredible innovations to look into our skies, we cannot forget that it started somewhere. It started with human beings, with our people.”

There are two SKAO sites where powerful telescopes are being built, in the Northern Cape and Western Australia. This is the second time in recent years that Artscape has been part of a collaboration with Aboriginal Artists from Australia. The Cosmic Echoes Exhibition is a display of talent across borders, across disciplines and it is also inter-generational, featuring the work of a group of Northern Cape youth.

Our diverse cultures came to life on the Theatre Stage in the afternoon of Saturday, 14 September as the Rainbow Rhythms Celebrating 30 years of Democracy showcased the diversity of our Rainbow Nation. Artists including Hilton Schilder and his Goema band, Dizu Plaatjies and his marimba ensemble, the Riel dancers from Clanwilliam, the Taare Dance Troupe sporting our Indian culture, and the Culture Shock's Malay choir among others showcased their artistic prowess.

Artscape offered the concert as a free heritage gift to NGOs and their members in order to ensure accessibility of the historically disadvantaged to revel in their respective cultures in line with government’s mandate to celebrate our respective heritages as a nation.

Saturday evening at 19:30 the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra's annual Variety Gala Concert was showcased to a sold-out Opera house with 1482 patrons in attendance. Produced by the Cape Town Philharmonic (CPO) in association with Artscape it celebrated 30 years of democracy in the Arts displaying the artistry of the Associated Companies unique to this cultural institution. Apart from the CPO, this included Cape Town Opera, Cape Town City Ballet, Unmute Dance Company, Jazzart Dance, Zip Zap Circus, Elvis Sibeko Studios, and featured the CPO Afri-Arts Choir, Tarryn Lamb, Talitha Luiters, Vuvu Kumalo, Craig Lucas, Edith Plaatjies, Loki Rothman, Manila von T**z, Olesii and Leda, Alan Committie as the MC and conducted by Brandon Phillips. The production ended with a foot tapping rendition of the well know P.J. Power’s Jabulani by the audience.

Crowning the weekend’s activity the Golden Shields Heritage Awards of the Heritage Council of South Africa brought the national Heritage Month theme “Celebrating the lives of our heroes and heroines who laid down their lives for our freedom” to life as a host of living legacies were honoured. Several dignitaries including heads of cultural institutions as well as the Westen Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Ricardo Mackenzie attended this prestigious event that was followed by a supper in the Chandelier Foyer. The Malay Choir showcased Western Cape Heritage while award-winning songstress Amanda Black wooed the crowd with several of her well-know hits.

The highlight of the evening was the Lifetime Achievement Award bestowed to ǂXuu Katrina Esau affectionately known as “Ouma Katrina”. She is the only remaining fluent speaker of N|uu - a 25 000-year-old endangered indigenous South African language and has made it her mission to teach the largely oral language and educate the youth on other unique traditions of the San people, an indigenous tribe found mostly in the Northern Cape, and in parts of Botswana and Namibia.

In 2018 Artscape premiered her life story entitled Katrina: Die Dansende Taal, through a music score and interpretive dance masterpiece choreographed by the late Kirvan Fortuin with music composed by the well-known singer-songwriter Coenie de Villiers.

Artscape continues its commitment to annual Heritage Month celebrations as artists have contributed significantly towards our freedom through their artistic abilities during the discriminatory Apartheid era. This milestone weekend will forever be etched in our minds and hearts as a collective contribution towards our beloved country to work towards a more humane and just society.

Happy Heritage Day

20/09/2024

𝗔𝗧𝗞𝗩-𝗦𝗲̂𝗿 𝗡𝗮𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗲 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗮𝗹 🎤

ATKV-Sêr is ’n a capella-kompetisie wat, in sy tienerformaat, neig na musiekteater deur tema, sang, dans, en storievertelling.

ATKV-Sêr vir tieners het tydens die ATKV-Tienertoneelstreeksfeesfinale landswyd sy debuut in teaters gemaak. Vier nasionale finaliste gaan hulle plek volstaan tydens die ATKV Nasionale Simbiose-Toneelfinaal op 23 September by Artscape.

Die groepe se nuwe komposisies en musieksamestelling het ’n vars bries by a capella-sang ingeblaas en beloof om die gehoor by die finaal te betower.

📅 23 September 2024

19/09/2024

H𝐨n𝐨r𝐢n𝐠 𝐭h𝐞 𝐋e𝐠a𝐜y o𝐟 𝐑o𝐛i𝐧 𝐌a𝐥a𝐧: A C𝐡a𝐦p𝐢o𝐧 𝐨f S𝐨u𝐭h A𝐟r𝐢c𝐚n T𝐡e𝐚t𝐫e a𝐧d L𝐢t𝐞r𝐚t𝐮r𝐞

Artscape celebrates the life of Robin Malan, a beloved figure in the arts community and a tireless advocate for South African theatre. Robin’s contributions to our institution and the world of literature are immeasurable.

Robin founded Junkets Publisher, a small yet influential publishing house that began with his novel Rebel Angel in 2005 and has since provided a platform for poets, playwrights, and novelists, ensuring that South African voices are heard far and wide. He was a mentor, a publisher, and a constant presence at Artscape, attending and supporting nearly every production with unashamed enthusiasm. His legacy will live on in the many plays, books, and lives he touched.

He played a pivotal role in getting many of our Artscape Dramas workshopped and published through the New Writing Programme, bringing South African stories to stages around the world, including prestigious festivals such as the International Dublin Gay Theatre Festival and the Black Theatre Festival in North Carolina. Some of the works that thrived under his support include Happy Endings Are Extra, The Boy Who Fell From the Roof, Dalliances, iSystem, Carefull, The Quiet Violence of Dreams, The Return, The View, Chomie, The Myth of Andrew & Jo, Special Thanks to Guests From Afar, and The Beneficiary.

There will be no funeral or memorial service. Should anyone wish to mark his death, they might like to do so by making a donation to Triangle Project or the Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation. For more information, please contact Robert van der Valk (0829906940) or Andi Mgibantaka (0787633177). If friends wish to arrange a "Remember Robin" gathering, contact Robert.

Our thoughts are with Robin’s family, friends, and all who were fortunate to know him. Thank you, Robin, for everything. Your impact on the arts will be felt for generations to come.

19/09/2024

🚂 : 𝙋𝙞𝙚𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙁𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙞𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙇𝙚𝙜𝙖𝙘𝙮 𝙤𝙛 𝙁𝙖𝙖𝙣 𝙨𝙚 𝙏𝙧𝙚𝙞𝙣 🚂

As we celebrate Heritage Month, let's honour Pieter Fourie, a towering figure in South African theatre whose work has left an indelible mark on our cultural landscape.

Fourie began his journey with the CAPAB Drama Company in 1966 as the company manager of the Afrikaans division. By 1968, he was appointed Artistic Director for Drama, a position he held for sixteen years despite being fired and reinstated three times during his tenure. It was during this period that he penned his first significant works, making a lasting impact on the Afrikaans theatre scene.

In 1981, Fourie was named Playwright in Residence at CAPAB, tasked with writing two plays a year, translating works, and serving as a dramaturg. His contract extended until 1986, when he moved to PACT (Performing Arts Council of the Transvaal) under the same terms, a position he held until 1990. Though there were concerns about his output—particularly the farces he wrote—his commitment to anti-censorship and pushing boundaries remained steadfast throughout his career.

Among Fourie’s celebrated works are Faan se Trein (1975), Faan se Stasie (1976), Mooi Maria (1980), and Die Plaasvervangers (1978), a play that almost didn’t happen due to its controversial subject matter. His fearless exploration of themes made him a bold voice in South African drama, and his leadership during his time at CAPAB helped elevate local theatre to new heights.

Faan se Trein remains a particularly beloved piece, telling the story of Faan, a simple-minded man from the small town of Luckhoff with a deep love for trains. The play’s mix of realism and poignant storytelling captivated audiences, making it a box office sensation and a testament to Fourie’s skill as a playwright.

This Heritage Month, we celebrate Pieter Fourie and his invaluable contributions to South African theatre, keeping alive the stories that reflect our history, identity, and shared humanity.

18/09/2024

𝐔𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐢𝐝𝐝𝐞𝐧 𝐇𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐚 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐚 𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐫

Join the Camissa Heritage Tour, a powerful site-specific performance that delves into South Africa's colonial past and its connection to the Netherlands. Discover the stories of the Indigenous 'San' and 'Khoi' communities, who inhabited our landscape thousands of years ago and resisted the impact of settlers.

This immersive theatrical experience takes you on a journey through The Castle of Good Hope and other significant sites, shedding light on the narratives of Indigenous People, slavery, and colonization.

Directed by Luke De K**k, supported by (Netherlands Consulate & Embassy in South Africa) and Artscape.

Let's change our perspective on history, heritage, and culture.

📅 Date: 26 to 28 September

🎟 Book your ticket at Webtickets

17/09/2024

Yesterday we had the pleasure of hosting a special presentation by Cape Town Opera and the legendary David Kramer for the upcoming musical, Orpheus McAdoo, coming to Artscape this October! 🎶

David Kramer shared fascinating insights into his creative process and the powerful story that lies at the heart of Orpheus McAdoo. The production, an exciting new take on his previous Orpheus in Africa (2015), tells the tale of the Virginia Jubilee Concert Company, an African-American choir that made waves in South Africa in the 1890s. This trailblazing troupe introduced a unique style of singing that delighted audiences from Cape Town to Kimberley and beyond, and that went on to become an overnight sensation.

Assistant director and movement coach Fiona du Plooy and costume designer Maritha Visagie shared their visions for creating the onstage world of the musical, while musical director Kevin Kraak spoke about his collaboration with David Kramer in shaping the score to enhance the narrative. Together, they gave valuable insights into how these elements will come together for an unforgettable show that has all the elements of a highly entertaining experience.

Orpheus McAdoo marks an exciting first-time collaboration between Cape Town Opera and David Kramer. His music for Orpheus MacAdoo, inspired by early spirituals, minstrel songs, ragtime, ballads, and opera, will include several new songs by Kramer himself, who also directs the show. The powerful voices of Cape Town Opera elevate the choral elements to new heights, with audiences sure to resonate with familiar, traditional hymns and tunes such as Amazing Grace and Swing Low, Sweet Chariot.

The cast includes talented Cape Town Opera (CTO) House Soloists Conroy Scott as Orpheus McAdoo and Brittany Smith as Mattie. Joining them are an equally talented ensemble of performers: Jody Abrahams, Dean Balie, Alexis Petersen, Elton Landrew, Eldon van der Merwe and Natalie Robbie

This powerful production blends historical drama and unforgettable music, making Orpheus McAdoo a must-see!

📅 Stay tuned for more updates and be sure to grab your tickets soon – this is one show you won’t want to miss!

Photos: Jeremeo Le Cordeur

DIVA PR

16/09/2024

🌟 An Unforgettable Celebration of Democracy at the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra Variety Gala! 🌟

Artscape, together with its associated companies, came together this weekend to celebrate 30 years of democracy, giving life through the arts. This celebration serves as a powerful reminder to never forget the past, while honoring our diversity and the richness of our country through creative expression.

With the theme "Reach for the Stars"—inspired by the artistry surrounding us and the fact that the world's most powerful telescope is being built right here in South Africa. On 14 September, Artscape hosted over 2,000 patrons and hundreds of artists, presenting a heartwarming display of how far we’ve come as a nation. The contributions of artists during the harsh apartheid era have not only enriched our lives but also spread the meaning of humanity.

A special to the charismatic Brandon Phillips for his captivating presence at the podium, and to all the incredible performers who made the event truly unforgettable. Your presence and support made the gala a joyous tribute to our vibrant arts community and our democratic journey.

Thank you all for being part of this special celebration!

Photos: Jeremeo Le Cordeur

14/09/2024

🌈 Thank You for an Unforgettable "Rainbow Rhythms: Celebrating Our Heritage" 🌈

Celebrating Heritage Month with the vibrant production “Rainbow Rhythms” today was non other than Legendary Diva Sofia Foster and Guests from all over Cape Town. Please visit Artscape’s Website www.artscape.co.za to see what other Heritage Month Productions are on offer.

We are deeply grateful to all who joined us in celebrating our collective identity through the universal languages of song, dance, and poetry. The evening was a testament to the unity and spirit of our Rainbow Nation.

14/09/2024

𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐫𝐭𝐬𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐞: 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬

As we celebrate 30 Years of Democracy, Artscape invites you to join us for a special Heritage Month filled with powerful stories of culture, heritage, and innovation.

Our programme highlights three key events:

𝐑𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐛𝐨𝐰 𝐑𝐡𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐦𝐬: 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐎𝐮𝐫 𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐞
A vibrant musical and dance performance that showcases South Africa’s diverse cultural heritage, featuring an array of local talent. Sponsored by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC).

𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐞 𝐓𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐜 𝐎𝐫𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐚: 𝐕𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐭𝐲 𝐆𝐚𝐥𝐚 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐭
A grand gala celebrating 30 years of democracy, featuring performances from Cape Town Opera, Cape Town City Ballet, Jazzart Dance, and more. This event is proudly sponsored by the City of Cape Town in association with Artscape.

𝐂𝐨𝐬𝐦𝐢𝐜 𝐄𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐞𝐬: 𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐒𝐤𝐲 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐀𝐫𝐭 𝐄𝐱𝐡𝐢𝐛𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
In collaboration with the SKA Observatory (SKAO), this exhibition brings together First Nations artists from South Africa and Aboriginal artists from Australia to explore stories about the stars and sky. The artwork reflects the intersection of ancient cultures and modern scientific achievements.

These events form the heart of our Heritage Month celebrations, and we are honoured to welcome special guests, including the Netherlands Ambassador, Her Excellency Joanne Doornewaard, Consul General, Honourable Hélène Rekkers, and High Commissioner Tegan Brink from the Australian Embassy.

Join us in celebrating our shared heritage and the incredible power of cross-cultural collaboration, diverse cultures, and future aspirations.

Photos: Toberin Meyer

13/09/2024

🎤 JamJam Brings Comedy to Artscape! 🎤

Get ready to laugh until you drop! Don’t miss the debut of 2-time Savanna Comic’s Choice Award nominee, JamJam The Comedian.

Khanyisa JamJam, a rising star in SA comedy, is known for his irresistible charm and quick wit. As a finalist in the 2022 Jive Funny Championship and a 2023 Savanna Newcomer of the Year nominee, JamJam will leave audiences in stitches with his hilarious performances.

📅 Catch him at Artscape from 6 November 2024.

🎟️ Tickets are on sale now at Webtickets.

Follow JamJam The Comedian for all the latest updates and sneak peeks!

12/09/2024

📜 Reflecting on the Controversial History of "Koning Lear" (1971) 🎭

As we celebrate Heritage Month, it’s important to reflect on the rich tapestry of South African theatre history and the complex narratives that have shaped our cultural landscape. One such pivotal moment is the story surrounding the opening of the Nico Malan Theatre Complex in 1971.

Originally, the play "Christine," written by Bartho Smit, was commissioned to open the theatre. However, due to its politically charged themes, including the haunting past of an Afrikaner artist during the N**i era, "Christine" was banned by the CAPAB Board at the last minute. In its place, "Koning Lear," an Afrikaans adaptation of Shakespeare’s tragedy, was staged.

A controversial production of Koning Lear, the Afrikaans adaptation by Uys Krige, directed by Dieter Reible and featuring Cobus Rossouw as Lear, was staged by CAPAB at the Nico Malan Theatre in Cape Town. Opening on 28 May 1971, it was the first production by the Afrikaans company in the new theatre. Despite avoiding the political themes of "Christine," Koning Lear still faced significant controversy, primarily due to its bold staging, sparking intense debate about the intersection of art and politics.

The impressive cast included Siegfried Mynhardt, Pieter Joubert, Jannie Gildenhuys, Johan Malherbe, Katinka Heyns, Margot Luyt, Sandra Kotzé, David Haynes, Mees Xteen, Chris Swanepoel, Martin Crous, Paul Malherbe, Paul Slabolepszy, Price Coetzee, Johann Potgieter, Barry White, and Graham Prosser. The production featured costumes by Beatrice Maurer and décor by Pieter de Swardt, adding to its visual impact.

This Heritage Month, let’s honor the stories of our past and the voices that have shaped our cultural heritage.