Limited seats to be the future as State Theatre reopens
"The project which boasts over 50 productions, has managed to convey relief to over 500 artists during the trying times so far.”
The State Theatre in Pretoria is set to open its doors at the end of the month, albeit with reduced seating capacity to ensure adherence to the national lockdown regulations. Theatre spokesperson Thakgatso Setseta said members of the theatre were excited to announce that the theatre was ready to welcome back audiences, starting with performances by the heritage enthusiast and revered musician Mbuso Khoza and band.
The live concert would premier on the nights of 30 and 31 October. “The theatre’s decision to reopen doors follows the easing of the Covid-19 national lockdown regulations to alert level 1 by government.” Setseta said the theatre was closed since government imposed a national lockdown back in March.
READ MORE: Mediclinic Kloof is ready to safely receive patients
“The result saw the theatre resort to taking its theatre programme online to not only entertain its audiences but to also offer relief to artists.
The project which boasts over 50 productions, has managed to convey relief to over 500 artists during the trying times so far.” He said in line with the Covid-19 regulations and health guidelines to prevent the spread of the virus, the theatre’s management had taken precautionary measures to ensure that the health and safety of its patrons was not at risk when it reopened.
“Limited seating is applied in venues to maintain social distance with the wearing of masks, temperature checking and other protocols in place.” Setseta said patrons were encouraged to wear their masks, sanitise, and maintain social distancing when visiting the theatre.
The opening will see an offering aimed to promote traditional music (Amahubo) and indigenous storytelling using jazz as a medium. Setseta said having recently performed in an empty theatre while recording for the virtual concert of Amahubo at State Theatre, Khoza was excited to reconnect with live audiences.
Khoza said: “We are excited about our return to the State Theatre following the drought in the live entertainment industry owing to the Covid-19 pandemic sweeping across the world and devastating our people.
“Even though the world is still not out of the woods from this pandemic, we are alive and in music you can find solace, and with knowing and embracing your roots you are armed with the greatest weapon.”
Khoza is recognised internationally as an expert on the musical heritage of the peoples of southern Africa.
Do you have more information about the story?
Please send us an email to editorial@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram
