Capetonians are invited to join Artscape’s 55th anniversary celebrations on the 19th of May – from the unveiling of a new memory wall to a historic photograph on the steps of the building and a free concert
Cape Town, 12 May 2026 – The Artscape Theatre Centre is inviting the public to become part of its living history on 19 May 2026, as the iconic theatre complex marks 55 years with a special open celebration under the theme “A Place for All.”
At the heart of the day is the unveiling of a new memory wall titled Becoming Artscape – A Place Reborn – a powerful visual journey tracing the evolution of the building from the former Nico Malan Theatre into the inclusive cultural space it is today.
Members of the public are then invited to gather on the steps of Artscape to be part of a historic commemorative photograph – a moment designed to capture not only the people who have passed through the building over the decades, but the generations who continue to shape its future.
Whether you attended your first ballet there as a child, watched a school production, saw your first opera, jazz concert or musical, or simply have a story connected to the building, Artscape wants the public to come and share in the occasion.
“This building belongs to the people,” says CEO Marlene le Roux. “For 55 years Artscape has held the stories, memories and creative spirit of generations of South Africans. This is an opportunity for the public to stand with us and become part of that continuing story.”
The day’s programme begins from 10h30 with welcoming performances on the piazza and in the foyers, followed by the official mural unveiling, an open press conference, cake cutting and commemorative photograph on the Artscape steps.
The celebrations conclude with a special free lunchtime concert featuring opera performances and youth jazz bands – part of Artscape’s long-running commitment to making the arts more accessible to all.
The public is encouraged to arrive early, explore the building, reconnect with memories, and stay to experience the energy of one of South Africa’s most important cultural spaces firsthand. For more than five decades, Artscape has been more than a theatre. It has been a witness to history – a place where stories have unfolded on stage and in the audience alike.
Now, the public is invited to take their place in that story.
EVENT DETAILS
- Date: Tuesday, 19 May 2026
- Time (for the public): From 11h30 – 13H30
- Venue: Artscape Theatre Centre, Cape Town
- Entry: Free and open to the public
In addition to the celebrations on the 19th of May, Artscape will host a series of free Saturday masterclasses (10H00- 12H00) covering a variety of topics relating to the business of the arts aimed at showcasing behind the scenes careers opportunities.
