Wits Theatre celebrates 40th anniversary with festival
The momentous occasion was marked by performances across the various disciplines and genres for guests and alumni from the theatre world to enjoy and reminisce while in the theatre complex.
The Wits Theatre has been celebrated as a space and platform that has been used and enjoyed by lovers of the arts for four decades.
The 40th anniversary celebrations were held under the name, Pitso Ya Kalaneng – a call to the theatre.
Dr Rene Smith, head of the Wits School of the Arts said, “In a post-Covid world there has been much support for theatres generally and an understanding of how important the arts are in society. What has not had much attention but is equally important are theatres at universities.”
“This festival is a call for the public to walk with us as we revive from the slumber of lockdown and support our work.”
She described at length how the theatre, built in 1983 has 367 seats in an adaptable auditorium, has played a vital role in the lives of not only drama students and alumni, but in the city more broadly.
“From student to professional theatre productions, this space which forms part of the Wits theatre complex encourages experiences that fall slightly outside of formal academic learning but are holistic, colourful, musical and essential.”
Students who are not studying the performing arts can benefit from interacting with the theatre complex through initiatives like Gateway to Success. This programme is offered during orientation at the beginning of the year where students are introduced to the arts and cultural aspects of higher learning and their positive impact on wider communities.
There were 12 productions which were showcased during the festival from Wits, Market Lab, University of Johannesburg, AFDA, Tshwane University of Technology, Market Theatre, Drama for Life and Wits School for the Arts alumni.
Highlights also included digital gaming stations from student developers; a fine art exhibition of student works and Foyer Flavour Jam sessions. The concert featured Mashabela Galane, Jed Eye, Liso the Musician, Pertunia Msani, Leon John and iPhupho L’Ka Biko.
“The opening night was so special. There were incredible performances by professional artists, fourth-year performance students, a comedy session and a talk by Malcolm Purkey. He was involved with the theatre for 20 years as head of drama and was instrumental in developing the drama programme we have today. So many distinguished guests and performers – far too many to mention. It was just wonderful.”
“The arts are vital to society, but they do come with a cost, and we need to engage with our broader community on how we can keep doing the critical work that we do.”
The theatre complex includes the beautifully restored Chris Seabrook music hall, the Great Hall, The Nunnery, an old convent hall, and the Downstairs Theatre. Cafes and restaurants are available for visitors to enjoy spending time in before productions and there is ample underground parking available for all theatres at the Senate House parking garage.
To learn more, visit www.wits.ac.za/witstheatre.
