We’re willing the weather to be warmer. How about you? Come into town to experience the change of season in the Cape Town CBD.
Robby Collins Live: Come As You Are Tour
2-6 October
Expect belly laughs at this performance of local comedian and storyteller Robby Collins as he “makes sense of everyday life” in South Africa. Collins is making a name for himself on the international comedic circuit so don’t miss the chance to catch him on a South African stage.
Where: District Six Homecoming Centre Avalon Auditorium, cnr Buitenkant & Calendon Sts
Time: 20h00
Cost: From R180
https://www.homecomingcentre.co.za/events
Trilogy of Notes – A Symphony of Dance
17-19 October
An amazing evening of dance awaits at this production by the WGRUV Dance Company in collaboration with Joburg Ballet. The programme opener is a restating of “Vivace Motifs”, choreographed by American choreographer Jessica Lang. Lang’s work is known for its beauty and depth. WCRUV Dance Company is South Africa’s newest contemporary ballet dance company. This is a triple bill that “promises to deliver class, culture and breathtaking musical landscapes”.
Where: District Six Homecoming Centre Star Theatre, cnr Buitenkant & Calendon Sts
Time: 19h00
Cost: From R155-R220
https://www.homecomingcentre.co.za/events
The Magic Box
9-22 October
Disney’s The Magic Box The Musical is an immersive theatrical sensory experience which takes the audience through Disney’s spectacular 100 years. Developed in association with Disney Theatrical Group and produced by local promoter Showtime Management, this enthralling show features an all-South African cast of fresh talent. Protagonist Mara (played by Ashley Scott) embarks on a magical journey led by Mickey Mouse along with his friends Minnie, Donald, Daisy, Goofy and Pluto. Other Disney characters come to life through various theatrical techniques. Expect elaborate costumes and enchanting animations. Sounds like a blast! Perfect for the whole family but no children under 3 years.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St
Time: 19h30
Cost: R200-R250
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/the-magic-box/
Company’s Garden Design and Trees Walking Tour
12 October
This Culture Connect tour is presented by landscape architect and former lecturer Clare Burgess and takes in the astonishing trees if the iconic Company’s Garden in the heart of the Cape Town CBD. Some of the trees date back hundreds of years. Burgess is co-founder of TreeKeepers Cape Town, an association committed to conserving the urban forest in our city landscape by promoting the value of trees. The history and sculpture of the garden will be included in the discussion.
Where: Meet at Coffee At The Vine coffee shop in the Company’s Garden, Queen Victoria St
Cost: R400; free for fulltime landscape students and long-term unemployed
Book: kate@cultureconnectsa.com or WhatsApp 072 377 8014
https://cultureconnectsa.com/upcoming-tour/companys-garden-landscaping-and-trees/
Sanlam Cape Town Marathon
19-20 October
The Cape Town Marathon is officially sold out with a total of 21 000 participants. As the official organisers say, it’s time to show the world how we run a marathon in Africa. This is the first Abbot World Marathon Majors Candidate Race. Entries for the 5 km and 10 km peace runs as well as two trail events are still open. There is something for everyone in this festival of running. Arguably the most beautiful marathon route in the world, say the organisers – and who are we to disagree? If you’re not taking part, do get into the spirit of things by supporting the runners along the route.
Where: Start at Fritz Sonnenberg Road, Green Point
Entry fee: From R130
www.capetownmarathon.com
Castle of Good Hope History Tour
26 October
This tour, another offering from Culture Connect, is taken by Jeanne Bonnema and it covers a fascinating and wide range of stories about the Castle of Good Hope, which was built between 1666 and 1679. The stories range from its creation to secret army activities during WW2, bombing during apartheid and Bonnema’s own slave ancestry. Says Kate Crane Briggs of Culture Connect: “We visit places spanning the Dutch East India Company’s official buildings and small British military jail, the provost to the newish Camissa Museum and a justice art installation by Haroon Gunn-Salie.”
Where: Castle of Good Hope, Castle St
Time: 10h00-12h00
Cost: R400 plus Castle R50 admission fee
Book: kate@cultureconnectsa.com or WhatsApp 072 377 8014 https://cultureconnectsa.com/upcoming-tour/castle-of-good-hope-history/
Cirque Extravaganza Through Time
23 November
Hugely entertaining, this spellbinding circus show presented by The Silk Workshop. Acrobats will have something for everyone. Expect breathtaking aerialists, jugglers and more to grace the stage.
Where: District Six Homecoming Centre Star Theatre, cnr Buitenkant & Calendon Sts
Cost: R260
Time: 12h00; 16h00 and 20h00
Cost: From R155-R220
https://www.homecomingcentre.co.za/events
History, Art, & Architecture Walking Tour
30 November
Kate Crane Briggs of Culture Connect mixes Cape Town landmarks and hidden gems in this city walking tour. You’ll visit the Trafalgar Place flower sellers, the old General Post Office, Adderley Street, Greenmarket Square and Long Street, while taking in a mix of colonial and contemporary architectural styles. There’s art on every corner, from new murals to 19th century statues and figurative architectural details. This two-hour tour is a hit with both locals and visitors, making for a rich experience all round. Where possible, Kate will introduce the people you meet along the way.
Where: Start at the Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation, Buitenkant St
Time: 10h00-12h00
Cost: R400
cultureconnectsa.com/upcoming-tour/city-walk-history-art-and-architecture-2/
My Fair Lady
From 12 December 2024 to 12 January 2025
Book now for this superb production of the Lerner and Loewe musical theatre masterpiece, My Fair Lady, produced by Pieter Toerien with Cape Town Opera. Dubbed the world’s most loved musical, expect the timeless songs including “I Could Have Danced All Night”, “Get Me To The Church on Time”, “Show Me” and “The Rain in Spain”. Directed by Steven Stead and choreographed by Duane Alexander. The legendary original production won 6 Tony Awards including Best Musical and ran for 2 717 performances, making it the longest-running musical in Broadway history. The cast will be announced soon.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St
Cost: R140-R580
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/my-fair-lady-cpt/
The Addams Family – The Musical
From 14 December
MotherCity Theatre Productions presents the professional South African premiere of The Addams Family The Musical, a comic feast with appeal for children and adults alike. Whether you love the comic books, the movies, or the “Wednesday” TV series, you’re in for a theatrical treat! Featuring a talented cast of well-known South African actors, this spooky, wickedly funny show is perfect for all ages. When the “princess of darkness”, Wednesday, falls in love with a “normal” boy, Lucas, the Addams family invites him and his parents for dinner … mayhem, dark humour and hilarity abound.
Where: District Six Homecoming Centre, cnr Buitenkant & Caledon Sts
Cost: R350-R580
www.homecomingcentre.co.za
EXHIBITIONS
Truth to Power: Desmond Tutu and the Churches
Ongoing
This is a new and exciting permanent exhibition celebrating key aspects of the legacy of the late Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu, housed at the former Old Granary building, now the Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation. The exhibition was curated by the Apartheid Museum. Come and experience the journey of The Arch, one of South Africa’s greatest heroes.
Where: Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation, Buitenkant St
Time: 09h30 – 15h30 (Tuesday to Saturday)
Cost: Free for children under 18; standard cost R100 with concessions available
www.tutu.org.za
The Names of Freedom: 1664-1848 From Slave to Citizen
Ongoing
Names of Freedom forms part of an exhibition exchange between Iziko Museums of South Africa, the Reunion Departmental Council (France) and the Villèle Historical Museum. It explores questions of identity through the history of slaves with a focus on how slaves were given their names just before and after emancipation and the meaning of this for their descendants who still have these names which were recorded in the historic registers. This is the first exchange of exhibitions between two former colonies and Indian Ocean Slave Trade repositories.
Where: Iziko Slave Lodge, top of Adderley St
Time: 09h00-17h00
https://www.iziko.org.za/exhibitions/the-names-of-freedom-1664-1848-from-slave-to-citizen/
Michael Brauer Solo Show
3 October-2 November
Namibian-born sculptor Michael Brauer, who lives and works in Cape Town, features in this solo show. Known for his modern, abstract ceramic and bronze sculptures, he has a keen interest in composition and form and he “strategically harnesses the tactile properties of clay and bronze to investigate themes ranging from intuition to biomorphism”.
Where: 99 Loop Gallery, 99 Loop Street
Cost: Free
https://www.99loop.co.za/events/michael-brauer
Love Unbound
10 October-21 November
This exhibition by Freya Willemoes-Wissing highlights the ever-evolving nature of love in the contemporary world, seeking to “foster safe and inclusive dialogue on equal marital rights, focusing on polyandry and feminism”. It aims to foster empathy and challenge preconceptions and promote critical thinking about the complexities of modern relationships. The opening night on 10 October will feature a performance by the artist.
Where: AVA Gallery, 35 Church Street
Cost: Free
www.ava.co.za
REGULAR EVENTS
Knit & Natter Group
First Sunday of the month
Those who love knitting and crocheting will feel at home at the Knit & Natter Group. Members meet on the first Sunday of each month to knit and crochet while sharing wonderful stories. Women from all walks of life are welcome to join and bring yarn and needles, ideas, current projects as well as snacks.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre (Marble Foyer), D.F. Malan St
When: 15h00-17h00
Cost: Free
www.artscape.co.za
Cape Town Craft Club
Every first and second Wednesday of the month
This bimonthly craft circle aims to get creative people together to make stuff in a laid-back, fun and judgment-free space. Absolutely everyone is welcome, from seasoned makers to those who haven’t picked up a crayon since childhood. Bring whatever you’re working on and join the circle whenever you feel like it.
Where: The Ladder on Bree
When: 18h00
https://capetowncraftclub.wordpress.com/craft-circle/
Sunday Jazz Sessions
Sundays
Openwine hosts Jazz Sessions by talented local artists every week. These are followed by lively Sunday Jazz Jam Sessions.
Where: Openwine, 72 Wale St
When: 17h00
Cost: Free
@openwine_za
East City Sessions
Every Thursday
The classic cocktail lounge, restaurant and boutique bar offers an expertly curated selection of established jazz acts and up-and-coming experimental acts on Thursday nights. So, mark your calendars. While entry is free, booking via bookings@harringtonstreet.co.za is advised.
Where: Harringtons Cocktail Lounge, 61B Harrington St
When: 19h00
Cost: Free
@eastcitysessions
Sky-Hi Ride
Ongoing
Experience some of the best views of the city and a mighty adrenaline rush. An eye-catching feature on the 28th floor of Hotel Sky, Sky-Hi Ride is a 35-metre thrill ride that takes you up in a chair lift, giving you a bird's eye view of Cape Town. Weather permitting, the Sky-Hi Ride is open to hotel guests and outside visitors. You can purchase a ride or observer ticket. A ride is free on one’s birthday.
Where: 28th Floor, Hotel Sky, 9 Lower Long St
When: 12h00 – 20h00 (Tuesday to Sunday)
Cost: R200 per person via Webtickets
https://sky-hiride.capetown/
Free CBD Walking Tours
Ongoing
Keen to explore the CBD without breaking the bank? Join free walking tours that take place in town daily. Organisers are keen to make Cape Town walkable for everyone and tour operators therefore rely on tips from clients. Options include a Historic City and Apartheid to Freedom Tour, Apartheid to Freedom and Bo-Kaap Tour and the Bo-Kaap and Historic City Tour. For more information, email info@freewalkingtourscapetown.co.za.
Where: Meet at the Piazza on Church Square, Spin St
When: 11h00, 14h00 and 16h20
Cost: Free
http://bit.ly/3ELMAlt
Third House Poetry
Last Tuesday of the month
Third House is a community and open mic poetry event to celebrate poetic talent. We facilitate a space in which poets can feel supported and inspired, share their work, exercise their creative voice, and network with other writers and creatives. Both established and novice poets are welcome.
Where: Selective Live, 189 Buitengracht St
When: 19h30
Cost: R50 at the door
@thirdhousepoetry
The Jam at Gorgeous George
Tuesdays
Musos keen on a jamming session have a home at the Gorgeous George hotel. The jam happens on Tuesdays and allows musicians to bring their instruments and play with other artists. Anyone is welcome, from music lovers to guitarists, singers, piano players to drummers.
Where: Gorgeous George, 118 St Georges Mall
When: From 08h00 – 23h00
Cost: Free
@gorgeousgeorgecpt
Jazz Night at Amber on Bree
Enjoy the beautiful sounds of jazz at Amber on Bree on Thursday nights.
Where: Amber on Bree, 16 on Bree, Shop 1 & 2
When: 20h00 – 22h00
Cost: Free
www.amber-restaurants.co.za
Live Jazz at The Athletic Club & Social
Thursday to Saturday
The Athletic Club & Social hosts live jazz musicians from Wednesday to Saturday. Aside from the great line-up of artists each week, the three-storey venue has impressive food and cocktail menus and offers great views of Signal Hill. Tickets are available via Quicket. There is also a bar service.
Where: The Athletic Club & Social, 35 Buitengracht St
When: 21h30
Cost: R100
www.theathletic.co.za
The Blue Room at Grub & Vine
Ongoing
Treat yourself to the sounds of jazz and blues, delicious cocktails and food at The Blue Room at Grub & Vine every week from Tuesday to Saturday. Check out the venue’s website and social media pages to see who is performing next. A pre-show dinner is also available between 18h00 and 20h00. A selection of spirits, wine and beers are also served from 16h00 until late.
Where: Grub & Vine, 103 Bree St
When: 20h00 – 20h40 (first session) 21h00 – 21h40 (second session), 22h00 (third session)
Cost: Cover charge of R200 per person (may differ for some artists)
www.grubandvine.co.za/the-blue-room/
Story time for children at the Book Lounge
Every Saturday
On Saturday mornings, Book Lounge staffers can be found reading wonderfully illustrated picture books from their beautiful and thoughtful children’s collection. There is a colouring activity sheet afterwards. All welcome, no RSVP required.
Where: Book Lounge, 71 Roeland St
When: 11h00
Cost: Free
www.booklounge.co.za
First Thursdays
First Thursday of every month
Where: Cape Town CBD including inside galleries and restaurants
When: 17h00 till late
Cost: Free
www.first-thursdays.co.za
Images: CCID, Artscape Theatre Centre, 99 Loop Gallery, Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation, Culture Connect SA, Homecoming Centre