|
A multimillion rand theatre is planned for Soweto, with City officials researching performance spaces in England and Canada.
A
DELEGATION from the City's community development department is preparing to jet off to England and Canada to investigate theatres in those countries as part of a plan to build a multimillion rand performance space in Soweto. The team, scheduled to leave at the end of the month, includes Nandi Mayathula-Khoza, the member of the mayoral committee for community development, and Pilisiwe Twala-Tau, the executive director of community development.
 |
|
Pilisiwe Twala-Tau, executive director of community development leaves for England and Canada to investigate established theatres in those countries
|
They will tour the Young Vic Theatre in London, England and the Cirque du Soleil in Montreal and Artbank in Ottawa, Canada.
Joburg is planning to build a multimillion rand world-class theatre near the Orlando Power Station or at a site near the Jabulani Mall, in Jabulani. Construction is expected to start in late 2008 after six to 12 months of feasibility studies in both areas.
"We want to turn Soweto into a viable neighbourhood that has facilities you find in the inner city, including entertainment and recreational facilities of the very best Johannesburg could offer," says Steven Sack, the City's director of arts, culture and heritage services.
The objectives behind the project are to provide equitable arts and culture services to previously disadvantaged Joburg residents and to ensure the economic and social sustainability of arts and culture services, he explains, adding that the building is for theatre productions.
"It is dedicated to the arts."
Long overdue
Commenting on the project, Mavela Dlamini, the City manager, said, "This project is long overdue and this theatre should be compared to others across the city."
It is a 2010 legacy project; legacy projects have been identified by the City to make sure Joburg continues to benefit from the 2010 World Cup™ long after the final whistle has been blown. It is the first theatre to be built by the City in Soweto.
 |
| Nandi Mayathula-Khoza, member of the mayoral committee for community development will be part of the delegation exploring the feasibility of establishing a theatre in Soweto |
Some R1-billion has been set aside for the legacy projects, which include an indoor sports centre in Orlando, Soweto and upgrading and replacing street furniture in the inner city. This was announced by Executive Mayor Amos Masondo at the sod-turning marking the start of renovations at Soccer City in January.
But it is not the only new performance space planned for Soweto. Holland's Herman van Veen Foundation is turning the Ipelegeng Community Centre in Jabavu into a full theatre, to be called The Miracle Theatre, that will stage workshop productions and community events.
The foundation, established by the Dutch performer Herman van Veen, supports projects and creates opportunities for children in developing countries to hone their talents and creativity.
Related stories
|
