By Florence Modikwe

By Florence Modikwe Of all the activities in the world, what could possibly drive a sane breathing creation to watch a live play? I mean really now, those people (excuse me, characters) make a lot of ridiculous noises in those funny costumes. All in the name of “acting”. I used to be one of those pessimistic people when it came to live plays. I just could not imagine being amused by watching three people prancing around on the stage like lunatics. I got the dreaded news that I HAD to watch a live play for my assignment and I went to that godforsaken theatre dragging my feet. Of all things, why did I have to watch a play?

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Having being forced to watch the play made me see the “play world” with a whole new set of spectacles.

There is something special about people who get on stage, lose themselves in the play and above all, bring their characters alive. The Pretoria State Theatre  was running a play called “Karoo Moose” and what a show it was! I was in tears after the show and I realised that theatres play a great role in highlighting the problems of the society.

A 15 minute walk from Braamfontein Centre leads you straight to the Market Theatre. It is nicely tucked in Newtown. Now, my favourite topic, eating spots. I recommend Cappello. There is something about the décor that instantly brings calm to one mind. I don’t mean to be melodramatic but it is true. It faces the Museum Africa and there is a lot of activity there which is just amusing to watch. The food is good and the prices are not too bad and you get to chill with Mzantsi’s celebrities. There is an interesting spot called Sophiatown and the crowd that hangs there are people who have money and just want to chill and discuss how to make more money. The theme is Sophiatown, from the décor to the music.

I am fortunate to be in Braamfontein because I don’t have to pay an arm and a leg to get to any place. A taxi is less than R10 if you are already in town.

Most of the activities in Newtown start when kids have already gone to bed. Don’t sweat if you, like me, do not have a vehicle to take you from A to B. there are taxis galore at every corner to take you to a destination of your choice, but opting for that can cost you about two fingers. So take three of more friends along to share the bill. You not only save but get to share the experience of discovering something new with your friends.

Some added info: The Market Theatre was founded in 1976, “back in the day” to some. It has been at the forefront of the struggle against apartheid, as most of the shows that ran challenged the old regime. The only thing that could highlight “the struggle of the black man” was a simple play.

Newtown has great selection of entertainment spots. There are restaurants and bar areas for those who just want to forget about their troubles and have fun. The troubles will still be there in the morning but hey, it’s all good.

The Bassline, is for live artist and people who just want pure entertainment. The Sci-Bono Discovery Centre is just too weird for simple people like myself. If you are a technical, science, practical person, this spot is for you and entrance is less than 50 bucks. They have a monthly calendar that tells you what’s on the moment.

Get hold of The Market Theatre on 011- 832-1641, The Bassline on 011-838-9145 and Sci-Bono on 011-639-8400.