Nestled at the foot of the majestic Devil's Peak mountain and located at the heart of Rondebosch lies the Baxter Theatre Centre. This cultural oasis stands as a beacon of art and creativity in the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town.
Known for a world-class theatre and concert hall and a dynamic studio stage - Baxter Theatre Centre was always a centre for diversity and art. With a rich history dating back to 1977, this iconic venue has hosted a myriad of world-class performances, from thought-provoking plays and captivating musicals to inspiring dance routines and engaging lectures.
A great history that has always given hope
The Baxter Theatre Centre has become well-known as the site of several high-calibre musical, dramatic, operatic, balletic, and theatrical productions and performances. Its primary mission is to preserve the highest quality of South African performing arts and do it in a way that significantly contributes to the country's thriving cultural and entertainment scene.
It presents experimental and socially relevant works and seeks to foster a strong relationship with the surrounding neighbourhood and university. The Baxter Theatre Centre was unmoved by the height of racial segregation under the apartheid system, instead creating a welcoming and exciting environment that highlighted the diversity of South African culture. The Baxter Theatre Centre's profound impact has transcended time, with amazing shows like "Mies Julie", which continues to captivate audiences.
A world-class cultural venue
The esteemed theatre is synonymous with excellence. The facility has a studio stage, cutting-edge facilities, and practice rooms to provide a haven for budding performers. The experimental theatre, dance, music, and film screenings on its packed programme schedule encourage intellectual exchange and artistic expression.
Baxter Theatre Centre embodies Cape Town's artistic vitality, designed by Jack Barnett and established through a bequest from Dr W. Duncan Baxter. The 666-seat Theatre Concert Hall, with its resounding Von Beckerath organ and intimate Studio, offers diverse experiences. A vibrant restaurant and bar and the enriching Bookstall contribute to its allure. The Baxter Theatre Center stands as a beacon of unity, nurturing South African talent and fostering cultural unity.
The theatre has staged outstanding productions
Baxter Theatre Centre has played host to a wide variety of fascinating performances. It opened in 1977 with Mavis Taylor's direction of Leonard Bernstein's Candide, which laid the foundation for outstanding acting. In 1977, Pieter Toerien had Joan Kemp-Welch direct The Deep Blue Sea with stars Helen Cherry and James Faulkner.
In 1979 the theatre hosted an excellent ensemble for Barney Simon's Cincinnati - Scenes from City Life. In 1980, Beckett's Waiting for Godot, starring John Kani, Winston Ntshona, and Pieter-Dirk Uys, moved audiences. In the same year, Alan Ayckbourn's The Norman Conquests trilogy made its impression. These bright strands of dramatic brilliance are woven into the fabric of the venue's history. Today, the theatre continues to bring together some of the most renowned names in theatre, film and television to create the same level of captivating performances. It is a testament to the legacy of Barney Simon and the many others who have graced its stage.
Be captivated by Rondebosch
This vibrant neighbourhood is located near the University of Cape Town and offers a diverse culinary scene. With the Baxter Theatre Centre's cultural appeal, Rondebosch becomes more captivating. Are you interested in living in the area? Seeff has various available properties for sale in Rondebosch, with a lifestyle enriched by education, theatre, and the local culture. Get in touch with our property practitioners for more information.