With so much focus on Cape Town’s natural beauty and world-class restaurants – including Curate at Ellerman House, which opened this year – it’s easy to overlook the city on stage.
And yet, from opera to theatre to classical music, you’ll find a performing arts scene that is both varied and vibrant. Across Cape Town, a few key theatres continue to play a central role in shaping the cultural identity of the Mother City.
Cape Town’s theatre venues offer a wide variety of programmes throughout the year, from West End musicals that are perennial crowd-pleasers to productions focused on social justice themes. And, of course, Capetonians love a good laugh, so there’s plenty of comedy on the go.
In a city with a thriving visual arts scene – don’t forget that Ellerman House offers bespoke art tours and its own in-house gallery – it’s perhaps no surprise that the city is alive with stage performances. Taken together, they form complementary parts of Cape Town’s vibrant creative economy, attracting both locals and visitors seeking a cultural experience beyond the ordinary.
“Cape Town’s theatre scene often surprises our guests,” says Yassir Ebrahim, Head Concierge of Ellerman House. “The talent on stage and quality of productions are truly world-class, yet what you’ll find are deeply grounded local stories, highlighting the issues that matter to the city. Finding time to enjoy some theatre, music or comedy is really a lovely way to deepen your cultural discovery of Cape Town, and we love helping guests find the perfect show.”
Whether you’re seeking a night of high drama or something more light-hearted, Cape Town’s theatre venues offer a variety of ways to engage with the city’s creative energy. If you’re eager to catch a glimpse of Cape Town on stage, look no further than these five character-filled venues.
Artscape Theatre Centre
Situated in the Foreshore district of the city centre, the Artscape Theatre Centre is Cape Town’s leading performing arts venue. It is home to the Cape Town Opera and Cape Town City Ballet, offering a diverse programme of ballet, opera, musicals and drama throughout the year. The complex includes the 1200-seat Opera House, the Drama Theatre and the Artscape Arena, providing versatile spaces for both large-scale and more intimate productions. With a strong emphasis on inclusive arts development, it also supports community-focused and youth-led performances across the city.
Tip: Parking is tricky in this area of the city, so rather ask the concierge to arrange a transfer.
Image Credit: Artscape
Baxter Theatre Centre
Set on the University of Cape Town’s lower campus in Rondebosch, the Baxter Theatre has been a hub for South African performers since 1977 and was notable for its policy of racial inclusion during apartheid. Today, it comprises three main venues: the 665-seat Main Theatre, the intimate Golden Arrow Studio, and the versatile Concert Hall. Renowned for its diverse schedule of progressive programming, the Baxter presents contemporary South African plays, dance, music, and comedy, while also supporting emerging voices and experimental works.
Tip: The Baxter is known for its striking architecture. Arrive a little early to admire it!
Image Credit: Baxter Theatre, University of Cape Town
Theatre on the Bay
Just a short drive from Ellerman House, perched on the seafront in Camps Bay, you’ll find one of the city’s most cherished small theatres. Theatre on the Bay is a hugely popular local venue showcasing a diverse range of local and international productions, from musicals and comedies to drama and cabaret. Owned by theatre impresario Pieter Toerien, the theatre also houses the Luitingh Alexander Musical Theatre Academy (LAMTA), one of the city’s foremost schools in musical theatre performance. With its intimate layout and elegant design, the theatre provides audiences with a boutique experience just steps from the beach, making it a favourite choice for both tourists and residents.
Tip: Enjoy wonderful sunset views from the small Act One Bar
Image Credit: Pieter Toerien Productions
Cape Town City Hall
An architectural landmark on the Grand Parade in the city centre, the Edwardian-style Cape Town City Hall also serves as a key cultural venue. Although it is perhaps best known as the location of Nelson Mandela’s first public speech after his release from prison in 1990, today the building’s elegant auditorium houses the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra. The historic charm of this ornate space offers a grand setting for classical concerts, chamber music, and civic events.
Tip: You can also buy tickets for the dress rehearsals, allowing a glimpse of a professional orchestra at work.
Image Credit: City of Cape Town
The Star Theatre
The Star Theatre is part of the Homecoming Centre, a lively cultural hub in Cape Town’s East City. Formerly known as the Fugard Theatre, this 540-seat theatre offers a diverse and progressive programme of theatre, comedy, music, and dance. It plays a vital role in providing a platform for emerging talent and community-driven performances, often highlighting underrepresented voices and stories.
Tip: Return in the daytime to discover the District Six Museum next door.
Image Credit: Homecoming Centre
Featured Image: Pam Golding Theatre, Baxter Theatre
