It’s still cold out there, but the Cape Town CBD is the place to be, come rain or shine! Here’s what’s on offer in the next two months.
NYO Jazz – Carnegie Hall’s National Youth Orchestra
2-3 August 2024
Catch Carnegie Hall’s National Youth Jazz Orchestra, NYO Jazz, as they visit our shores for the first time this weekend. The orchestra’s members are outstanding young musicians aged between 16–19 from across the USA. Led by artistic director and trumpeter, Sean Jones, with special guest vocalist Alicia Olatuja, NYO Jazz has been described as “astonishing—not just technically, but stylistically”. The orchestra showcases the legacy and future of American jazz. The programme includes a new composition by Sibusiso Mash Mashiloane (SA) and big-band classics by Duke Ellington, Thelonious Monk and Mary Lou Williams, as well as new arrangements. Presented by Carnegie Hall in association with The Market Theatre.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan Street
Time: 19h00
Cost: R120-R200
www.artscape.co.za/event/nyo-jazz-carnegie-halls-national-youth-jazz-orchestra/
We Are Stars – Planetarium Dome Show
Until 20 September
What are we made of? Where did it all come from? Explore the secrets of our cosmic chemistry, and our explosive origins. Connect life on Earth to the evolution of the universe by following the formation of hydrogen atoms to the synthesis of carbon, and the molecules for life. Narrated by Andy Serkis. Follow it up with Rising Star, the first locally produced full-dome film, which takes in the achievements and future of astronomy research in South Africa.
Where: Planetarium, 25 Queen Victoria Street, Cape Town
Cost: From R40
www.iziko.org.za/museums/planetarium/
Totalsports Women’s Race
9 August
The Totalsports Women’s Race is a mass-participation, women-only road race that creates an unforgettable experience for women of all ages and backgrounds. Held across three major South Africa cities – Durban, Cape Town and Joburg – it will see close to 27 000 runners and walkers joining forces in solidarity to celebrate National Women’s Month by running or walking 5 km or 10 km. Singer-songwriter Jimmy Nevis will perform in support of PinkDrive. When registering online, runners can also support the charity. So, get your race number and entry, lace up those sneakers, and make your way to the start in Darling Street. The race finishes on the Grand Parade.
Where: Darling St, Cape Town
Time: 08h00 for the 10 km; 08h10 for the 5 km
Cost: Entry fee for the 10 km is R145 and the 5 km R110. or
www.totalsportswomensrace.co.za or www.webtickets.co.za
ABFAB DRAG
9-10 August
Step into a world of glitz, glamour, and fabulousness as the Absolutely Fabulous Drag Show (ABFAB DRAG) returns to the stage, captivating audiences and celebrating the vibrant LGBTQIA+ community. This highly anticipated production is part of the Artscape Women’s Humanity Arts Festival. The show features a line-up of exceptional drag divas, including the incomparable Vida Fantabisher, runner-up of SA’s Got Talent 2016, Manila von Teez, the sensational Kat Gilardi, the charismatic Jayde Kay Johnson, the enchanting Angel Lalamore from the renowned drag cabaret group 3D, and the triple threat artist Mitchell Darling.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St
Cost: R120
www.artscape.co.za/event/abfab-drag-2/
Yeomen of the Guard
10-17 August
Cold winter nights call for light-hearted Gilbert & Sullivan evenings! “Yeomen” is set in the Tower of London in the 16th Century and is G&S’s most dramatic opera which has a believable story line with well-drawn characters. Intrigue, comedy and a “tragic” ending make up the dramatic plot. This opera contains Sullivan’s most profound and beautiful music. Being in English, it is easy to understand and to follow the storyline. A very fine example of English Romantic Opera.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St
Cost: R225-R295
www.artscape.co.za/event/the-yeomen-of-the-guard/
Legends in Harmony: Divas and Proteges Unite
17 August
This spectacular tribute event celebrates the iconic female figures who have left an indelible mark on the arts and culture industry in South Africa. This special evening will honour the legendary Diana Ferrus, Aviva Pelham, Thembi Mtshali-Jones and Vicky Sampson for their outstanding contributions to the world of performing arts. Directed by Sophia Foster, the production promises to be a captivating showcase featuring star turns by renowned artists such as Claire Phillips, and Fancy Galada accompanied by a 10-piece band, The Lady Day Big Band under direction of Amanda Tiffin.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, DF Malan St
Cost: R80-R120
www.artscape.co.za/event/legends-in-harmony-divas-and-proteges-unite/
Kaleidoscope – Zip Zap Circus
17-18 and 24-25 August
"Kaleidoscope" promises a high-energy, family-friendly performance showcasing the exceptional talent Zip Zap is known for. Audiences will be captivated by breathtaking trapeze acts, stunning acrobatics, incredible juggling, and impressive contortion, performed by a daring cast of young artists from the Zappers and Dare2Dream programmes. This year's Zip Zap production offers a magical journey through the seasons, filled with fun and excitement, highlighting the extraordinary skills of these remarkable young performers – a courageous cast of ordinary kids doing extraordinary things.
Where: Zip Zap Circus Dome, next to Artscape, Jan Smuts St
Cost: R150
www.quicket.co.za/events/266258-kaleidoscope/?ref=events-list#/
The Grand Exhibition Burlesque Benefit
24 August
Step into a world of enchanting elegance at The Grand Exhibition Burlesque Benefit: Where Beauty Meets Benevolence. Immerse yourself in a fusion of art, dance, and theatre, as top burlesque performers take to the stage. Their sultry moves, sumptuous costumes, and tantalizing routines will ignite your imagination and awaken your senses. All proceeds from the evening go towards supporting Rape Crisis.
Where: District Six Homecoming Centre, Buitenkant Street
Cost: From R250
www.quicket.co.za/events/263333-the-grand-exhibition-burlesque-benefit-2024/
Winter Dances – Cape Town City Ballet
29, 30, 31 August
In this production, Cape Town City Ballet will be dancing a range of styles including a creation by Kenneth Tindall, international star and choreographer of the highly successful “Polarity”, and a new work by David Nixon CBE. They will also hold South African premiers of existing works by Mariana Rodrigues and Capetonian Mlindi Kulashe. CTCB will also be restaging a piece by Garry Trinder that hasn’t been seen since 1993. As a special addition, Royal Ballet Principal dancers Fumi Kaneko and Vadim Muntagirov will perform a new duet at the 29th, 30th and 31st August evening performances only.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St
Cost: R175-R425
www.artscape.co.za/event/winter-dances/
Spring Symphony Season – Cape Philharmonic Orchestra
29 August-26 September
The Cape Philharmonic Orchestra presents five distinct concerts for the Spring Symphony Season this year. Price’s Renaissance, on 29 August, features conductor Rossen Milanov and violinist Melissa White. The opportunity to hear Florence Price’s little-known Violin Concerto No.2, only recently rediscovered, is a highlight of the programme. Aaron Copland’s Four Dance Episodes from “Rodeo” and William Levi Dawson’s Negro Folk Symphony round out the evening. Other concerts in the series focus on Elgar, Mahler, Stravinsky, and Mendelssohn alongside South African composers Michael Moseu Moerane and Conrad Asman.
Where: Cape Town City Hall
Cost: TBC
www.cpo.org.za
History, Art, & Architecture Walking Tour
30 August
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
Cost: R400
cultureconnectsa.com/upcoming-tour/city-walk-history-art-and-architecture-2/
FAME Week Africa
1-7 September
This is the go-to event for African creatives, bringing together related events focused on film, television, animation, music, fashion and entertainment technology. It includes the Cape Town International Animation Festival and the African Fashion Forum and features content sessions, film screenings, exhibitions, and more.
Where: CTICC 2
Cost: TBC
www.fameweekafrica.com/
Peppa Pig
6-8 September
In celebration of 20 years of muddy puddles, Peppa Pig heads to SA in 2024 for an exciting, one-of-a-kind live stage show experience that will have young fans laughing, cheering and dancing with their favourite friends from the hit TV series. The show features incredible life-sized puppets and amazing costumed characters. Join Peppa, George, Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig and more in a fantastic adventure filled with buckets of surprises and plenty of muddy puddles!
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St
Cost: R199-R549
www.peppapiglive.co.za/
Stage Junior Magic Champs
28 September
Presented by the College of Magic the Mother City’s only magical arts organisation, and Canadian magical organisation, Magicana, the Junior Magic Championships will see 12 of the province’s top teen wizards go wand to wand in the dexterous art of Close-Up magic and stunning illusions of Stage Magic for the ultimate Junior Magician titles. The College of Magic has been teaching the theatrical performing art of magic and its allied arts as well as vital life skills to children and adults since 1980.
Where: District Six Homecoming Centre, cnr Buitenkant & Caledon Sts
Cost: From R120
www.quicket.co.za/events/268330-stage-junior-magic-champs-2024/?ref=organiser-profile#/
The Magic Box
From 9 October
Don’t miss Disney’s The Magic Box, featuring an all-South African cast and crew, is on for a limited season in Cape Town before moving to Joburg and then embarking on an international tour. The 26-member cast is set to enthral audiences as they take patrons on an immersive theatrical sensory experience through the 100 years of Disney. The story tells of Mara, played by Ashley Scott (Popcorn, White Lies, The Sound of Music) who embarks on a magical journey led by no other than Mickey Mouse, along with his friends Minnie, Donald, Daisy, Goofy and Pluto, brought to life on the stage in a uniquely and innovative theatrical way.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, DF Malan Street
Cost: R200-R550
www.artscape.co.za/event/the-magic-box/
Sanlam Cape Town Marathon
19-20 October
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. With a fast and flat course that dreams are made of, and multiple distances ranging from 5 km and 10 km peace runs as well as two trail events, 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?
Where: Start at Fritz Sonnenberg Road, Green Point
Entry fee: From R130
www.capetownmarathon.co.za
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 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
When: 09h30 – 15h30 (Tuesday to Saturday)
Cost: Free for children under 18; standard cost R100 with concessions available
www.tutu.org.za
Esther Mahlangu Retrospective
11 August
A major retrospective of one of South Africa’s foremost artists, Esther Mahlangu, is entering its last few days at the Iziko South African National Gallery. Through the language of colour and form, the exhibition charts Mahlangu’s contribution to contemporary art close to seven decades. More than 100 artworks have been loaned from international collections, carefully curated alongside historic photographs and a short film. Also included in the exhibition is Mahlangu’s BMW 525i Art Car which makes its historic return to South Africa for the first time in more than 30 years. Mahlangu became the first woman and first African to be invited to participate in the prestigious BMW Art Car Collection in 1991.
Where: Iziko South African National Gallery
Cost: From R40
https://www.iziko.org.za/exhibitions/
Exhibitions by Vusumzi Nkomo, Vincent Bezuidenhout and Sarafina Naisula
Until 15 August
IItyala aliboli, an expression that loosely translates as “a debt [that] doesn’t wither away, rot or die”, is an ongoing conceptual sculpture project by artist Vusumzi Nkomo that considers the legacy of slavery in South Africa. Its starting point is the São José Paquete d’Africa shipwreck (1794) in Camps Bay.
News From Elsewhere by Vincent Bezuidenhout features a selection of large-format colour photographs of Mossel Bay, and a video installation of appropriated footage from a vintage animation series. Bezuidenhout is known for his extensive bodies of work on the South African landscape as a political construct.
Miili Yao, translating to “Their Bodies” in Kiswahili, is a powerful exhibition by Sarafina Naisula. This body of work delves sexual objectification and abuse through a series of silhouettes composed of multiple densely packed bodies. Sarafina aims to connect the stark statistics of sexual violence with the deeply personal stories behind each case, as well as how individuals and society relate to this trauma.
Where: AVA Gallery, 35 Church Street
Cost: Free
www.ava.co.za
Iyabulela iLali – Exhibition by Songezo Zantsi
12 July-24 August
Vela Projects presents Iyabulela iLali, Songezo Zantsi’s second solo exhibition composed of 11 paintings. The artist invites us to engage his portrayal of a family wedding he attended in Qumbu, in Eastern Cape. In this joyous Xhosa matrimonial occasion, two families, in fact an entire village, came together to witness the bride and the groom’s union. A ceremony of this nature is marked by singing and dancing, feasting, and the drinking of umqombothi, the traditional brew.
Where: Vela Projects, 66 Plein Street
Cost: Free
www.velaprojects.co.za/exhibitions/iyabulela-ilali
Fatima Tayob Moosa, Ulriche Jantjes, Gene Lesouw – 99 Loop
27 July-24 August
Three solo exhibitions run simultaneously at 99 Loop Gallery. Fatima Tayob Moosa’s Surfaces of Reflection features abstract paintings that attempt to express metaphysical motion and energy. Ulriche Jantjes’ Vigil presents new monotype prints and oil paintings. Finally, Gene Lesouw presents his debut solo exhibition, taking shape. Lesouw is an emerging artist. In his current practice, he focuses on small-scale events by elevating them to art, exploring his relation to his immediate surroundings and those close to him. This, like all things, may be subject to change.
Where: 99 Loop Gallery, 99 Loop Street
Cost: Free
www.99loop.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: Zip Zap Circus, Cape Town Marathon, Artscape, Peppa Pig