The Playhouse Theatre in Somerset West was severely damaged during last weekend’s storm, which stripped the building of its roof and resulted in serious flooding.
“We have created a Back-A-Buddy [crowd-funding] campaign to help raise R500 000 to assist in covering both the repair costs as well as operational costs while the theatre remains closed for repair,” said Mark McAllister, The Playhouse Theatre vice-chairman.
“We don’t yet know how long the theatre will need to remain closed to the public, but due to the extent of the damage we don’t foresee this being a quick process. We will, of course, update you all as soon as we have a firm timeline. Any and all support of our fundraiser will be greatly appreciated!”
Founded in 1947, the Hottentots Holland Drama Society (The Playhouse Theatre), has been a cultural landmark and social hub for the Helderberg and greater Cape Town for nearly 80 years.
As a community-led non-profit organisation, the fact that The Playhouse Theatre – wholly run and supported by amazing volunteers and members, none of whom are salaried full-time employees – has been operating for almost eight decades is a testament to the amazing support from the community, without which this would not have been possible.
Volunteers and members, cast and crew, patrons and friends, have poured their passions and love of the arts into the society over the decades, bringing much-needed joy, laughter and even tears to thousands of patrons. They have all allowed the theatre not only to continue to surprise and delight with incredible performances and shows, but have helped give back to the community through various charity and community outreach programmes.
Being a non-profit organisation does not come without its challenges and trials but, due to the passion and ongoing love and support of the community, The Playhouse Theatre has proven to be incredibly resilient in the face of these challenges.
Unfortunately, another challenge has been thrown its way, the devastating storm of Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 April, which has caused havoc to the beloved theatre, destroying its roof and (newly installed) solar panels, and causing unprecedented damage to the stage, props, costume, electrical system, among others.
While the theatre’s insurance will hopefully cover a significant portion of the damage repair, there is likely to be a not-so-insignificant shortfall. “We have also chosen to view this heartbreaking disaster, which will cause us to shut down for a substantial amount of time, as an opportunity to upgrade certain critical areas within the theatre,” stated the online campaign, “including upgrading our sound and lighting equipment, our electrical system, our backstage and technical spaces as well as our patron-facing spaces. This will help us ensure a wonderful theatre experience for all involved from start to finish.
“We are reaching out to our community to help us both cover the shortfall caused by the damage as well as implement critical changes and upgrades to our beloved theatre. We understand times are tough for many in our community, but any amount (no matter how small) will really go a long way in helping us rebuild and grow. If you are unable to donate financially, please support us by sharing this fundraising campaign, or even volunteering pre-, during- and post-repair.”
Locals are also implored to consider joining or continuing their involvement with The Playhouse Theatre.
“Whether you want to see your name in lights by performing on our beautiful stage or bring productions to life by helping out backstage or in the tech room, we would love to have you. Here’s to another 80 years of amazing productions, friendships and community development.
“Thank you to all of you. We wouldn’t be the theatre we are today without you all!”
To donate, visit https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/encore-the-show-must-go-on.
