Community members and local businesses came together on Mandela Day to clean and beautify the Ken Gampu Theatre.

On July 17, the municipality fixed the stormwater drains and the parks department trimmed the overgrown trees.

Speaking to the Springs Advertiser, councillor Charmaine Kock said she was approached by production company Allegretto Toneelfees, which is set to host schools from across Ekurhuleni at the theatre for two weeks of performances.

“All these schools are coming to Springs and we wanted them to come to a presentable and beautiful theatre.

“Various businesses contributed to make this a success; Hot Pot Paints has donated paints which will be used to redo the palisades, Springs Garden Centre provided plants and compost, among others,” she said.

Kock added that the initiative will continue on August 10 with further restoration work planned at the theatre.

“We will come back on August 10 to redo the 14 panels around the theatre, the mural and the palisade fencing. Once that has been done, we will come back again to do the finishing touches,” she said.

She encouraged the Springs community to keep lending a helping hand to help improve the town.

“Whenever there is a call for help, whether to clean or cut grass, the community always comes to the party. We must keep up that attitude so that our town is something to be proud of,” she concluded.

Wayne van der Schyff-smal from Allegretto Toneelfess said commemorating Mandela Day symbolises new beginnings and embracing togetherness and what Madiba stood for.

“The idea was to stand together and create a better community. When people come together, they can make a difference.

“Despite the challenges we face and the struggles our municipalities may be experiencing, staying involved can have a lasting impact,” he said.