Cape Town is well-known and loved for its performing arts scene and talented artists who bring its theatres to life.
If you’re travelling there and would like to experience something other than an art gallery, don’t let the performing arts fall by the wayside.
So, step away from the canvas and check out these prominent theatres and cinemas in Cape Town.
Artscape Theatre
Artscape Theatre is on D.F. Malan Street, Foreshore, and close to the Cape Town CBD. It opened in 1971 and was originally known as the Nico Malan Theatre Centre. It’s known for its diversity of performances. It includes the main Theatre house, Opera House, and Arena. All of which hosts a plethora of performances that range from music, dance, drama, opera, and more.
The Baxter Theatre Centre
The Baxter Theatre Centre is on Main Road in Rondebosch. It opened in 1977 and is recognised as having been one of the leading theatres during the apartheid era because it challenged societal norms. Additionally, it became well-known for sharing its first interracial kiss in the 1985 “Miss Julie” production. They host a wide variety of performances, ranging from ballet to drama, comedy, classical music, and more.
Maynardville Open Air Festival
If you’re a fan of Shakespeare, Maynardville Open Air Theatre is your go-to Shakespeare in the park. It’s on Piers Road in Wynberg. What makes this special is that it’s held outdoors every summer in the beautiful Wynberg Park. It’s been running since 1956 and has hosted a variety of performances; its first production was “The Taming of the Shrew”.
Next year, it will celebrate its 70th year with a full lineup of music, dance, and performances. It will take place from 13 January to 8 March 2026. It’s recommended to visit their website for all the details regarding bookings and other important information.
Theatre on the Bay
Theatre on the Bay is on 1 Link Street in Camps Bay. The South African producer Pieter Toerien started it in 1988 after purchasing the building and transforming it into what it is now. The building was originally built between 1899 and 1900. It was also the Alvin Cinema since 1979.
Now it hosts a variety of genres, from comedy, drama, cabarets, music, and top-quality performances. Interestingly, Pieter Toerien also owns the Montecasino Theatre and Studio in Johannesburg, so be sure to keep an eye out for it if you are in Jozi!
The Labia Theatre
While not exactly a performing theatre, The Labia Theatre on 68 Orange Street in the Gardens has an interesting history and is ideal for those who want a novel cinematic experience. Princess Labia first opened it in 1949 as an Italian Embassy ballroom. However, it was converted to a cinema and has reportedly been running for 40 years. It is described as the “oldest independent art-repertory cinema” in South Africa.
It showcases a variety of screenings, including independent, foreign, and documentary films. In addition, there are four screens available and various eats and drinks to choose from. It’s the best spot for a movie night out!
While there are various other theatres in and around Cape Town, not mentioned here, they are definitely worth a visit too. These will get you started on finding a few spots where you can immerse yourself in the performing arts.
