Isithatha’s* mission is to bring a bright new light to a Greater Walmer encompassing Gqebera**and the new developments along Victoria Drive and the Buffelsfontein Road. Venue is available for hire for small events, rehearsals, meetings, performances and workshops. Contact Sharon 0827749083
We have acquired a theatre and a space for Artists to create. This project was initially funded by the NLC b
ut is now funded by our backabuddy campaign. https://www.backabuddy.co.za/champion/project/isithatha-trust-fundraiser, private donations and grants-in-aid. This multi-functional facility is accessible to people from both sides of the ‘Apple Express’ railway track and is suitable for all the arts, including dance, the visual arts, music and drama and that provides
* It is workshop/performance space that serves to blend cultures and promote a unique South African brand of theatre free from segregation.
* It is a space suitable for small audience groups.
* There is a coffee and chocolate shop on site “ Death by Coffee “ with the best coffee and chocolate in Gqeberha. The coffee shack is a unique venue and is open Tuesday to Fridays from 9 to 4 pm. Croissants and other treats are available. Open Saturdays from 8 to 2.. Enjoy our beautiful environment while sipping on locally roasted coffee.
* We host a monthly Food Market ( 1stSaturday of the month 9 to 2) where you can enjoy local entertainment and foods
* Monthly Chamber Music Concert
*.Theatre productions
* We have Rehearsal facilities for artists.
* We run Training programmes for playwrights, dancers, performers, musicians etc. Fridays are dedicated to community classes. 0827749083 WhatsApp for information.
* Dance classes of various genres take place on every day of the week with one free community dance class on Fridays at 2.30 to 3.30pm
* We are in the process of creating Employment opportunities.
*.Interactive drumming sessions for tourist groups, private parties and functions are offered in conjunction with Ruth Macintosh from African Drumbeat
* We are in the process of becoming a tourist destination that can generate income and where tour groups can witness various types of South African performance, exhibitions etc.
* We provide opportunities to preserve and share the histories and traditions of our various cultural groups through dramatic storytelling performances of the events of the past.
* We have held and will continue to hold Arts Festivals that promote all of Isithatha’s goals for the Greater Walmer
* A community venue for theatre in education programmes, improvisation clubs and talent searches
* Synergy with other local and regional Arts initiatives
* A spark to ignite enthusiasm for the arts amongst young people from schools in the greater Walmer area.
* Cooperation with other interested groups
* Healthy entertainment for people from and beyond the Greater Walmer.
*Isithatha is the Xhosa word for a beam of light emerging from the darkness.
**Gqebera is the Khoisan name for the green hills and lush forested valley around the Baakens river. It is also the indigenous name for ‘Walmer Township’.
