Explore the most exciting happenings this First Thursday in Cape Town. First Thursday in itself is a must-do event which once again includes a diverse range of events from stage shows to art exhibitions. With options that include theatrical dining, live performances, and captivating exhibitions, there’s something for everyone. Here are the top experiences to check out.
Celebrity Skin: A Theatrical Dinner Show at Mavericks Revue Bar
For something different this First Thursdays, Celebrity Skin at Mavericks Revue Bar offers an exhilarating adult dance and theatrical dining experience. Directed by Grant van Ster and Shaun Oelf, with creative direction from Craig Leo, this glamorous production fuses cabaret, dance, and theatre, transforming the venue into a captivating stage.
When: Wed to Fri, from 7pm to 9pm
Cost: R300 to R600 | Book here
Where: Mavericks Revue Bar, 68 Barrack St, Cape Town
Experience the Soul of Nomfundo Xaluva’s New Album, ‘Ndilapha‘
Renowned jazz artist Nomfundo Xaluva launches her much-anticipated third album, Ndilapha (“I am here”). This popular South African singer is a sparkling vocal talent with a passion for African classics.
She’ll explore themes of motherhood, black womanhood, love, and legacy through her soulful compositions. Catch Nomfundo Xaluva live at the Star Theatre.
Cost: R300pp | Tickets available via Quicket
When: Thurs, 7 Nov | 7pm to 9pm
Where: Star Theatre, District Six, Cape Town
My Brilliant Divorce: A Witty and Heartfelt One-Woman Show
If you’re looking for a night of laughter and reflection, My Brilliant Divorce is a must-see. Written by award-winning playwright Geraldine Aron, this international comedy hit stars the incredible Kate Normington in a one-woman tour-de-force performance. Directed by Alan Committee, the play dives into the comic yet touching journey of a woman navigating life after a long marriage, capturing the emotional highs and lows of divorce with wit and sensitivity.
A relatable and entertaining experience for anyone who’s ever been through a breakup – or even just thought about one.
Cost: R180 to R250pp | Tickets available via Webtickets
When: Running until 16 November | 8pm nightly
Where: Theatre on The Bay, Link Street, Camps Bay, Cape Town
Final Dress Rehearsals of the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra’s Summer Symphony Season
The Friends of Orchestral Music (FOM) invite the public to witness what’s known as the FDR (final dress rehearsal) of the 4th concert in the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra’s Summer Symphony Season. Experience an exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpse as maestro Bernhard Gueller leads the orchestra through an enchanting programme. Witness the final touches of Tchaikovsky’s Variations on a Rococo Theme and Bruckner’s Symphony No. 4 in E-flat, “Romantic”, making this a perfect addition to your First Thursday plans.
Cost: R125pp (Adults) | R65pp (Students) | Tickets available via Quicket
When: Thursday, 7 November | 11am to 2pm
Where: Cape Town City Hall, Darling Street, Cape Town
Alexis Schofield: ‘Our Calves Demand a Wolf’ at Vela Projects
For an intriguing blend of art and technology, Alexis Schofield’s new solo exhibition, Our Calves Demand a Wolf, at Vela Projects offers a thought-provoking exploration into the disorienting effects of modern visual media. This unique exhibition sees Schofield collaborating with Artificial Intelligence (AI) to co-create a series of mesmerising and unsettling paintings. Definitely worth the visit.
Cost: Free
When: 25 Oct to 7 Dec 2024 | Wed to Fri, 11am to 5pm | Sat, 11am to 2pm
Where: Vela Projects, 66 Plein Street, Cape Town
HORRORFEST: Celebrating 20 Years of Terror
Oh, you thought Halloween was over and the scares were done? Think again!
Get ready for thrills and chills at this year’s HORRORFEST! Spice up your First Thursday with a spine-tingling lineup of horror films, shorts, and live performances. Choose from classic screenings like The Texas Chain Saw Massacre and The Rocky Horror Picture Show, or enjoy a live soundtrack performance for Dante’s Inferno.
Cost: From R120 to R750 | Tickets available here
When: 31 Oct to 9 Nov 2024 | Various times
Where: Labia Theatre, 68 Orange St, Gardens, Cape Town
Single’s Flow
Single and ready to mingle? Join Conscious Connection for a relaxed and mindful singles’ night. Start with a sharing circle, enjoy a groovy yoga flow, and conclude with meaningful connections through curated questions. This event is perfect for those seeking friendship, romance, or deeper connections.
Cost: R250pp | Tickets available via Quicket
When: Thurs, 7 Nov | From 6.30pm to 8.30pm
Where: Habitus Wellness, 61 Loop St, Cape Town
Pieter Hugo: ‘What The Light Falls On’ at Stevenson Gallery
Enjoy your First Thursday with Pieter Hugo’s latest solo exhibition, What The Light Falls On, at Stevenson Gallery. Known for his powerful and internationally acclaimed portraiture, Hugo’s work offers an intimate and thought-provoking exploration of identity and society. This exhibition marks his tenth show with Stevenson Gallery, showcasing his legacy as one of Cape Town’s most prominent photographic artists.
Cost: Free
When: 26 Oct to 30 Nov 2024 | Mon to Fri, 9am to 5pm | Sat, 10am to 1pm
Where: Stevenson Gallery, Buchanan Building, 160 Sir Lowry Road, Woodstock, Cape Town
Café Blues Sessions: Backline Blues Band & Guests at Café Roux
Join the electrifying Café Roux for a Thursday night of soul-stirring blues music. Featuring Dave Goldberg, Richard Pryor, Alec Griffiths, Paul Tizzard, Anton Bardo, and special guests, the Café Blues Sessions promise to deliver a thrilling musical experience.
Cost: From R180pp | Tickets available on Quicket
When: Thurs, 7 October 2024, from 8pm
Where: Café Roux, Chapmans Peak Dr, Noordhoek, Cape Town