In celebrating Women’s Month, the CCID spoke to female leaders in government, business and civic society in the Central City. We published some of their comments in the Winter 2016 issue of City Views. Here is a Q&A with Marlene le Roux, CEO of the Artscape Theatre Centre. Stay tuned throughout August to meet more wonder women of the Cape Town CBD.
What brought you to the CBD in the first place?
I was privileged to work in the Western Cape Education Department as a subject advisor, and most of my encounters were in the CBD. I then joined Artscape and my world just exploded within this colourful area!
What would you like to see in the CBD that you think would bring more business to the area?
I would like to see that the CBD becomes more disabled friendly; that the restaurants, retail shops and other public spaces become more aware that accessibility is a must. I am impressed so far with the services of the City. The CBD is clean and it is well managed. I feel safe here.
What is it about the Cape Town CBD that you enjoy?
The diversity and the spontaneous interaction of the people. The CBD has a buzz that I would like to experience daily. St George’s Cathedral and the Slave Lodge have a historic resonance with me, as I was a marcher in the 80s against Apartheid. These institutions played a significant role in who I am today.
Outside of your work environment, what is your favourite spot in the CBD?
This is definitely The Company’s Garden. You can have a conversation with a homeless person and a high-profile person at the same time
What has been your best time in the CBD?
Infecting the City festival was very special, and it must really be activated again.
If you had a lunch hour free to yourself, how would you spend it in the CBD?
I would buy a salome at Mariam’s Kitchen and go sit on the steps either of St George’s Cathedral or on the Grand Parade and watch the eclectic energy of the people of Cape Town.
Artscape Theatre Centre
DF Malan St
www.artscape.co.za
021 410 9800