Come into town to experience the buzz of the Cape Town CBD. There is a lot of fun to be had. Here’s our hand-picked selection.
EXHIBITIONS
Each man kills the thing he loves
Now on till 20 November 2021
This unique exhibition features 100 portraits on paper and canvas by Philip Steel, honouring disregarded erotic actors from the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Steel explains that some of the individuals died violently and by suicide and AIDS-related illnesses. As he worked on the exhibition, he started to empathise with them and discovered how “lethal prejudice can be”. “My work uses painting to memorialise and beautify … I truly hope that my gesture offers these overlooked erotic actors the tribute they deserve.”
Where: Nel, 117 Long St
When: 10h00 – 17h00 (Tuesday to Friday), 10h00 – 14h00 (Saturday)
Cost: Free
www.nelart.co.za
9 Spaces: The Abyss of Deep Time
Now on till 13 November 2021
Don’t miss Cathy Abraham’s solo exhibition, “9 Spaces: The Abyss of Deep Time” at THEFOURTH gallery. Abraham’s work touches on her belief in the connection between art and science, spiritual practice and reincarnation and shifting perspectives. She explains: “By working with objects destroyed or damaged in the course of daily domestic life, I wish to speak to the mass of irreparable ‘brokenness’ that constitutes my life story.”
Where: THEFOURTH, 28 St Georges Mall (4th Floor, Exchange Building)
When: 10h00 – 17h00 (Monday to Friday), 10h00 – 14h00 (Saturday)
Cost: Free
https://thefourth.co.za/
99 Loop Gallery exhibitions
3 November 2021
99 Loop Gallery isn’t letting up. After five shows between September and October, it has three solo exhibitions coming up in November. Featured artists include Fanie Buys, Marolize Southwood and Qhamanande Maswana. More information about the artworks will be announced soon, but catalogues can be requested via gallery@99loop.co.za.
Where: 99 Loop Gallery, 99 Loop St
When: 10h00 – 15h00 (Monday to Friday), 10h00 – 14h00 (Saturday)
Cost: Free
www.99loop.co.za
JellyWorld
Now on until 30 November 2021
With the World Economic Forum reporting that the jellyfish population is expanding in leaps and bounds, climate change could be to blame. This Iziko exhibition raises awareness about these sea creatures and their role in marine ecosystems. The presentation also highlights the impact people have on the environment and how unsustainable practices lead to climate change and impact food security.
Where: Iziko South African Museum, 25 Queen Victoria St
When: 10h00 – 11h30 and 12h30 – 14h00 (Tuesday to Sunday for two entry sessions)
Cost: R15 – R30
www.iziko.org.za
Kemet: Life in Ancient Egypt
Now on till 31 March 2022
If you’ve ever wanted to explore ancient Egypt, check out this Iziko exhibition in partnership with the Friends of Design: Academy of Digital Arts. Using augmented reality, the show explores how prehistoric Egypt has shaped our world today in terms of writing systems, pharaohs, science and technology, beliefs and religion, and recreation.
Where: Iziko Slave Lodge, cnr Adderley and Wale sts
When: 10h00 – 14h30 (Tuesday to Saturday)
Cost: R30 – R15
www.iziko.org.za
Framing Landscape: “the Picturesque” and “the Sublime”
Now on until 28 February 2022
This one-of-a-kind exhibition brings together landscape paintings made in Europe and South Africa between the 1600s and 1800s. The aim is to showcase the two major modes of landscape art that emerged in this period. Works being presented include paintings from the Bailey, William Fehr and Iziko South African National Gallery collections.
Where: Iziko South African National Gallery, Government Ave
When: 10h00 – 14h30 (Tuesday to Sunday)
Cost: R15 – R30
www.iziko.org.za
REGULAR & OTHER EVENTS
Night Market
30 October 2021
In a bid to reignite the area, Greenmarket Square will come alive with another Night Market on Saturday 30 October after the success of last month’s event. Expect music, food, clothes, jewellery, and crafts from a range of stalls available.
Where: Greenmarket Square
When: 16h00 – 22h00
Cost: Free
Restaurant Week South Africa
Now on till 14 November
It’s Restaurant Week South Africa, which means patrons can get delicious meals at reduced rates in some of Cape Town’s finest eateries until 14 November 2021. Participating restaurants in the Cape Town CBD include Bouchon Bistro, GiGi Rooftop Restaurant & Bar, Copa Restaurant, FYN Restaurant, Pilcrow & Cleaver, The Athletic Club & Social Club, and Grub & Vine. All these eateries are offering two- and three-course meals ranging from R245 to R495. Contact the restaurants directly or use the Restaurant Week South Africa website to book.
Alchemy: Three Dances
6 till 13 November
The show goes on at Artscape Theatre Centre. Treat yourself to a beautiful production by Cape Town City Ballet honouring three world-renowned male choreographers. The show includes the South African premiere of Robert North’s internationally acclaimed Troy Game, George Balanchine’s exquisite Concerto Barocco and Jiří Kylián’s arresting Falling Angels”.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St
When: 19h30
Cost: R195 – R350
https://bit.ly/3BUbNqe
Dalin Oliver Live at Artscape
9 till 13 November 2021
After almost two years of lockdown, comedian Dalin Oliver has a lot to get off his chest.
He is tired of Zoom meetings, chatting to himself and can’t wait to get on stage and share his thoughts with people instead of his neighbour’s cat.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St
When: 19h30
Cost: R60 – R120
https://bit.ly/3nkMpEn
The South African Jewish Museum
Ongoing
The South African Jewish Museum protects and celebrates Jewish culture and heritage in the country. It’s a must-visit site for those looking to immerse themselves in the rich history of the Jewish community. The museum also has a restaurant (Café Riteve) with a selection of breakfast, lunch, and snack options. For more information, call the museum on 021 465 1546 or send an email info@sajewishmuseum.co.za. For restaurant bookings, call 021 465 1594.
Where: South African Jewish Museum, 88 Hatfield St
When: 10h00 – 16h00 (Sunday to Thursday), 10h00 – 14h00 (Friday)
Cost: R50 – R100
www.sajewishmuseum.org.za
La Bohème Touring Production
25 till 28 November 2021
Great to see performers returning to the stage again. Catch this much-loved opera which will be brought to life by seven well-known young South African opera singers under the guidance of experienced director Magdalene Minnaar. La Bohème tells a story of love, friendship, and tragedy.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St
When: Depends on booking
Cost: R300
www.artscape.co.za
Planetarium shows
Now on till December 2021
The Iziko Planetarium and Digital Dome is showing “Accidental Astronauts”, a fun-filled adventure into space by Sy and Annie as well as their dog, Armstrong. Another wonderful show to catch is “Polaris”, which features a travelling penguin from the South Pole and a funny bear from the North Pole.
Where: Planetarium, 25 Queen Victoria St
When: 10h00 – 14h30 (Tuesday to Sunday)
Cost: R30 – R60
www.iziko.org.za
Craft Circle
Every Wednesday
This is like a book club, but for crafts. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to meet cool people, socialise with friends in a fun way or needs a creative outlet. While talking about books isn’t prohibited, the idea is to bring artistic individuals into a safe and non-judgemental space. Participants from all walks of life bring their embroidery kits, clay toolboxes, sewing machines or any other materials they are working on. The three-hour-long sessions are hosted by Andie Reeves, a teacher, textile artist and owner of the Cape Town Craft Club.
Where: The Ladder, 136 Bree St
When: Wednesdays
Cost: R120
https://capetowncraftclub.wordpress.com/craft-circle/
Christmas Open Market
4 December 2021
Don’t miss the Christmas Open Market at The Ladder this festive season. Great food, gifts, and a children’s workshop, that will run throughout the day, is what’s on offer. Keep your eyes on the CCID’s and The Ladder’s social media pages for updates on the event.
Where: The Ladder, 136 Bree St
When: To be announced
Cost: Free
www.theladderon136.com
Live music at Local at Heritage Square
Wednesdays
Catch gifted local musicians singing live at Local at Heritage Square on Wednesdays. The food and drink emporium has various venues, including Liam Tomlin’s Mazza and Penny Noire Wine Bar, offering a variety of food and drink options.
Where: Shortmarket St, Local at Heritage Square
When: 18h00 – 20h00
Cost: Free
https://www.facebook.com/LocalatHeritageSquare
Thursday Night Ride Club
Every Thursday
Where: Rook Cycles, 295 Long St
When: 19h00 (every Thursday)
Cost: Free (bring your bike or rent one for R100)
www.rookcycles.com
City Sightseeing South Africa
Ongoing
The popular and much-loved Red Bus by City Sightseeing South Africa is a great way to discover or rediscover Cape Town and its surroundings. It has a range of packages to choose from for both kids and adults including a Hop on-Hop Off Tour between the CBD and the V&A Waterfront. The two-day Premium Hop On-Hop Off Ticket includes an option to choose between a Harbour or Canal Cruise in between the three stops.
Where: City Sightseeing South Africa, 81 Long St
When: 09h00 – 16h52
Cost: R49 – R499
www.citysightseeing.co.za/en/cape-town
Brunch Club
Every Saturday
Central City favourite Grub & Vine presents a fresh take on brunch classics every Saturday. Diners can choose from delicious à la carte dishes or the whole menu. The experience is topped with bottomless bubbly from Graham Beck. Bookings via Dineplan are recommended.
Where: Grub & Vine, 103 Bree St
When: 11h00 – 15h00
https://bit.ly/3nwnmzL
Podcasts by Book Lounge and AVA Gallery
Ongoing
Book Lounge and the Association for Visual Arts (AVA) Gallery have insightful podcasts to be enjoyed by book and art lovers. Ava’s podcast is called Lounge+ and features a range of interviews with artists and updates on exciting exhibitions. A Reader’s Community by Book Lounge has conversations with authors and includes talks with the Roeland St bookshop’s staff about what they are reading. Subscribe to both podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, or Google Play so you don’t miss out on great content.
Sky-Hi Ride at Hotel Sky
Ongoing
Hotel Sky, the Cape Town Central City’s newest hotel, has a 30-metre Sky-Hi Ride on its rooftop. It offers the best views of Cape Town and is reportedly the first of its kind in Africa and only one of seven in the world. Have a look at what’s in store for you here and be sure to book your ticket here.
Sunday Funday at La Parada
Ongoing
Sundays in the Cape Town CBD are reserved for Sunday Funday at La Parada where patrons are serenaded with 90s Hip-Hop and R&B. This venue is also known for its delicious tapas and welcoming atmosphere.
Where: La Parada, 107 Bree St
When: 15h00
https://bit.ly/3oYQosE
Fable Music Sessions
Every Saturday
On Saturdays, Fable hosts DJ Tanner Mason who keeps patrons entertained with great music as they indulge in cocktails and good food.
Where: Fable, The Block, cnr Bree and Wale sts
When: 07h00 – 22h00
Cost: Free
www.facebook.com/fablecpt
Gin Saturdays at The Station On Bree
Every Saturday
Where: The Station On Bree (five double G&Ts with garnish)
When: 13h00 – 17h00
Cost: R200
www.thestation.capetown
East City Cycles Friday Social Ride
Every Friday
Where: East City Cycles, 50 Harrington St
When: 05h45 – 07h30
Cost: Free
www.eastcitycycles.com
Story time for children at Book Lounge
Every Saturday
Where: Book Lounge, 71 Roeland St
When: 11h00 (all kids are welcome and there’s no need to RSVP)
Cost: Free
www.booklounge.co.za
First Thursdays
First Thursday of every month
Where: Cape Town CBD including inside galleries and restaurants
When: 17h00 till late
Cost: Free
www.first-thursdays.co.za
IMAGES: Rook Cycles, Cape Town Craft Club, Artscape Theatre Centre, The Athletic Club & Social, THEFOURTH Gallery, Fable