Artscape Theatre Centre is excited to usher in its summer programme, along with a brand-new look and feel for its front-of-house foyers – the perfect complement to the many facilities that make Artscape the world-class theatre that it is.
With Artscape’s stages hosting first-rate performances, it is essential that the theatre caters to the needs of today’s performing arts and provides patrons with a comfortable theatre-going experience. The foyers have thus been transformed to include modern, world-class facilities that prioritise audience comfort, an improved atmosphere, flexibility and disabled access. Bar facilities and coffee stations have been increased for easier access and faster service during intervals. Patrons can now also enjoy free WiFi access and can view the all-new audio-visual screens in the foyers for information or show details. And, the theatre’s doors remained open throughout the year-long overhaul.
The Artscape summer season is a composite of song, dance and merriment, befitting of a Cape Town summer. High on any family’s priority list is the musical Matilda, which will be performed in the Artscape Opera House from 9 December until 13 January. Matilda The Musical is the multi-award-winning musical from the Royal Shakespeare Company, inspired by the beloved book by the incomparable Roald Dahl, telling the story of an extraordinary little girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny.
Also perfect for the whole family over the holiday season is The Little Mermaid, showing from 14 December to 6 January in the Artscape Theatre. Adam Sage’s telling of this captivating story features the delicate Little Mermaid, the Handsome Prince, the evil Sea Witch and many more enchanting characters. Choreographed for the Missouri Ballet a few years back and performed to sold-out theatres, this production will highlight the versatility and acting skills of the dancers of the Cape Town City Ballet.
The jazz world recently celebrated the magnificent Ella Fitzgerald’s 100th birthday, and her timeless repertoire still brings joy to millions of jazz fans across the globe. Join SAMA-winner Anna Davel and the star of My Miriam Makeba Story, Sima Mashazi, for a swinging tribute to Ella Fitzgerald in the Artscape Arena from 19 to 22 December.
The ever-popular Swing Time graces the Artscape Theatre stage from 20 December to 5 January. This is the return of Sean Bovim’s ballet, performed to the music of the swinging ‘30s. Relive the past as you watch the Cape Town City Ballet dancers interpreting hit tunes such as ‘It Had to Be You’, ‘Unforgettable’ and ‘Fly Me to the Moon’.
Summer in Cape Town would not be the same without TopDog SA, who return with their third instalment of the highly acclaimed Nama Jazz Series. The band draws music from an ancient well and fuses it with modern Cape Jazz traditions and genres. This presentation is underscored by the narrative: ‘this is who we are’. Nama Jazz Series will be performed in the Artscape Arena from 28 to 30 December.
Come for the intrigue. Stay for the drama. One thing is clear: at Artscape, you can sing or dance for your supper this summer.
To read more about the upcoming productions at Artscape Theatre Centre including Sarafina!, Krotoa: Eva van de Kaap, The Michael Jackson HIStory Show, the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra Community Gala Concert, Design Indaba, Hairspray and more, purchase your copy of our December 2018 / January 2019 issue for only R18! Or continue supporting the arts and culture sector by subscribing to our monthly Creative Feel magazine for R180 per year.
