As the famous Shakespearian quote reads, "All the world's a stage" and thanks to the Milnerton Playhouse and the efforts of the Milnerton Players, this corner of Cape Town is a regular host of theatrical delights. From dramas and thrillers to comedies, musicals and much more, the Milnerton Playhouse has staged it all. If you're a resident of the Milnerton area looking to enjoy some theatre or get involved in a hobby or passion project, you need to explore Milnerton Playhouse and all that it has to offer.
Introducing the playhouse
Behind the library complex in Pienaar Road, Milnerton, you'll find the small, versatile and intimate Milnerton Playhouse, which was built in 1989 after ten years of lobbying the city council. For more than 30 years now, it has been the home of many a thespian masterpiece in the Western Cape.
Shows that have been staged at Milnerton Playhouse
Over the years, a great variety of comedies, tragedies, musicals and other masterpieces have been staged here. Audiences have laughed, cried and been inspired and thoroughly entertained. Here are a few of the best-loved examples:
- Careful is a play written by the late South African playwright and well-loved host of the South African version of Who Wants to be a Millionnaire, Fiona Coyne. Described as a "challenging two-hander", it is the story of an actress called upon to play the role of a gay woman. For guidance, she reaches out to the only lesbian she knows, and a battle of wits ensues, tackling various issues related to stereotypes and tolerance.
- It's a Dog's Life is a poignant piece revolving around eight dogs in a shelter, all hoping to be rescued and taken to a loving home. Interestingly, they are not dressed in dog costumes, but rather in clothes and accessories that depict their personalities.
- And Then What is an original play that looks at what is involved in chasing dreams - especially if one doesn't give much thought to what comes next. A quiet after-work-drinks session is transformed into an event that may change the lives of the three protagonists.
How to get involved
If you'd like to get involved with the Milnerton Players and the regular happenings at the playhouse, becoming a member is a great first step. For starters, you'll get discounted tickets to all Milnerton Players' shows and you'll be kept up to date with everything that's happening in your monthly copy of the "Prattle" newsletter. You'll also reap all the benefits that come with being actively involved in a friendly, enthusiastic society that's committed to keeping the thespian arts alive. The membership fee is currently a nominal R80 per year. You can also buy a lifetime membership for a once-off fee of R800.
Once you're a member, there are various ways you can use your time to get involved. From acting, singing and dancing to directing, working backstage or being a sound or lighting technician, there's plenty to do. There are also administrative tasks to be undertaken as well as theatre maintenance and backstage work to be done, so there's definitely a niche for everyone.
Other things you should know about Milnerton Playhouse
- The playhouse is available for hire by other cultural groups, and over the years, many dance shows and productions by other societies have been staged here.
- On occasion, free social evenings, video screenings and other events are held at the playhouse.
- 10% of ticket sales are donated to the Theatre Benevolent Fund, which is set up to maintain the dignity of people in show business in South Africa.
- You can check out the Facebook page for regular updates about the goings-on at the playhouse.
The Milnerton Playhouse is just one of the great amenities that residents of Milnerton and surrounding areas get to make the most of. If you're interested in buying or renting property in Milnerton, contact Seeff today.