In a bid to secure the future of one of Cape Town's most cherished cultural venues, a historic benefit evening, The Masque Theatre Arts Benefit, is set to dazzle attendees at Artscape on Wednesday, 19 March.
This much-anticipated event promises a night filled with fun, laughter, and spectacular performances, all in support of The Masque Theatre, which proudly celebrates 65 years of inspiring creativity and inclusivity within the community.
Guests will enjoy drinks and snacks while networking with fellow arts enthusiasts before the live performances commence at 19:30. The evening will be masterfully hosted by the incomparable Siv Ngesi, adding an extra layer of charm to the occasion. A line-up featuring some of South Africa’s most talented artists will showcase their skills as they gather to honour the legacy of The Masque Theatre, all the while raising essential funds for its continued operation.
Attendees can look forward to captivating performances from the renowned South African Jazzart Dance Theatre, popular local musician Ted Faulkner and his band, Pinch of Celt, as well as critically acclaimed producer, writer, poet, and performer Siphokazi Jonas. Additionally, students from the esteemed Waterfront Theatre School will showcase their remarkable talent in a variety of dance and musical theatre performances. Tickets are available for purchase via Webtickets.
The Masque Theatre holds a respected place in Cape Town’s cultural landscape, having fostered creativity, inclusivity, and community spirit for over six decades. Founded by visionary Bertie Stern, The Masque stood as a trailblazer for inclusivity, being one of only two theatres at the time to welcome participants of all backgrounds through its doors. Today, it remains a vibrant and resilient community-driven venue that promotes voluntary participation in all forms of theatre.
Not only does The Masque present high-quality amateur productions, but its diverse array of programmes also promotes skills development and artistic engagement within the community. Projects such as the Youth Theatre Club for 8–16-year-olds, various theatre workshops, a playreading series, and film masterclasses ensure that the next generation of talent can flourish in a nurturing environment.
“We are grateful to Artscape for their partnership support of The Masque, enabling us to hold this benefit concert to raise essential funds for our future,” said Yvonne Finch, Show Director and Trustee.
“As custodians of the venue, we need to preserve and revitalise the building, as well as continue with our services to the community, cementing our place as an artistic beacon for generations to come.”
Finch emphasised that the theatre has faced significant challenges, surviving a dramatic fire and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, underscoring the need for urgent maintenance and support.
“We need to take The Masque into the next exciting 65 years, continuing our commitment to engaging, entertaining, educating, and empowering our community,” said Daniel Enticott, Chairperson of The Masque. “As a social and creative hub, we aspire to be the destination of choice for community theatre, from front-of-house to behind the scenes or even on stage.”