A word from the CEO — shaping culture, stage by stage.

Dear Patrons

As we arrive at the threshold of Easter, we carry with us the quiet weight and the sacred beauty of the Lenten journey we have walked together. This year, Easter Sunday falls on 5 April, and we are reminded of the deep roots of our celebration: Passover (Pesach) begins the very same week, from the evening of 1 April through 9 April. It is a moment that speaks across centuries — two communities of faith, each finding their own encounter with freedom and new life.

To all our Christian Faith patrons: we wish you a truly blessed and joy-filled Easter. May the hope of resurrection be not only a moment we celebrate, but a truth we carry forward into every day.

To our Jewish patrons observing Passover: Chag Pesach Sameach — a joyful and meaningful Passover to you and your families. As you gather around the Seder table, may this season renew your sense of freedom, identity, and hope.

Thank you to all our patrons for your continued support of the arts and for making Artscape come alive with up to 2,000 people per day this past March. With Pretty Woman: The Musical and Dracula: The Ballet filling our theatres, your presence reminds us that this is your building, a public institution where you are invited to enjoy all that the performing arts have to offer.

We are thrilled to continue the run of Pretty Woman: The Musical, which has already captured Cape Town’s heart. TimeOut praised it as “a joyous celebration of romance,” while Cape Robyn described it as “an upbeat, fun fantasy love story.” These accolades affirm the magic audiences are experiencing night after night.

April also sees the setwork production of Krismis van Map Jacobs yet again coming to life on-stage at Artscape. It is always such an immense privilege for Artscape to host all four Grade 12 setwork productions, often offering many learners their very first encounter with live theatre. These performances make literature come alive, creating unforgettable experiences that inspire a lifelong appreciation for the arts. Not to mention, an understanding of literary works in a format that these learners can relate to.

Do not miss our Free Lunch Hour Concert in association with the Cape Cultural Collective on Tuesday, 7 April, from 12:30 to 1:30pm in the Chandelier Foyer. Featuring the dynamic Unmute Dance Company, celebrated vocalist Cindy Gibbons, veteran guitarist Keith Tabisher, and spoken word artists Vusu Mpofu and Mfundi the Poet. This vibrant programme promises an uplifting midday escape. Remember, free concerts take place every first Tuesday of every month. Bets to come early as it gets quite packed.

Finally, we look forward to the Suidoosterfees, a festival that celebrates music, theatre, and culture in a spirit of joy and community. It starts on 29 April and ends on 3 May, offering five days of nearly non-stop entertainment, edutainment, discussions and so much more right here at your home for all. Curiously, the Suidoosterfees theme this is year is “Tuiste”. Need I say more?

And, as a final reminder: Artscape, the building, turns 55 this year. Throughout the year, there will be festivities and events around the 55-year celebrations. Always check on our website to be the first to know about these activities.

Artscape will forever be delighted to welcome you. This is your space to relax, learn, experience, and enjoy the performing arts. We look forward to sharing many more memorable moments with you.

Yours in the Arts,

Marlene le Roux

CEO