Playhouse Theatre in Somerset West near Cape Town, South Africa

Playhouse Theatre in Somerset West near Cape Town, South Africa

The Playhouse Theatre is situated in the small town of Somerset West. Although 45 minutes away from Cape Town, the town boasts of its dramatic theatre which it is very proud of. The Playhouse Theatre plays host to top class productions throughout the year including national and local shows of both drama and dance.

The Hottentots Holland Dramatic Society was established in 1947, and opened The Playhouse on May 26, 1973. The original building was designed by Harry Hargreaves and consisted of a control room, auditorium, a small foyer on the west side, the stage and dressing room.

The workshop was added at a later stage and then finally the Green room. All through this period much exciting theatre was produced and their reputation as one of the leading drama societies in the Peninsula was established.

More improvements have been made to the theatre over the past 12 years, including the tarring of the parking lot, the interior redecorated, new signage and a host of other small things. The Society must generate income from shows and hires to survive as it does not receive grants from anywhere. Yet here in the 21st century the Society is still intact and moving ever onwards.

Locals can even become involved and join the vibrant Hottentots Holland Dramatic Society. This can mean simply receiving newsletters and discounted tickets, or even running the theatre or producing a show! So whether wanting to brush up on your acting skills, or wanting to build a set – whether you are a drama queen or a handyman, the society will welcome you with open arms!

This really is a theatre where the whole community is involved. Anyone in Somerset West knows the Playhouse Theatre, and has either been there to see a show or been in one themselves. Do yourself a favour and visit this homely theatre – you may even feel nostalgic.