Theater has a rich and celebrated tradition throughout South Africa and the city of Cape Town offers a wide selection of live performances at every kind of venue you can imagine. So where should you start? That depends on the type of entertainment you are seeking.

Dinner theater

Sample the best local cuisine while being entertained by visiting any of Cape Town’s many dinner theaters. Located in Sea Point, Richard’s Supper Stage & Bistro offers a variety of live entertainment, with everything from comedy to cabaret. The Barnyard Theatre located at the Willowbridge Shopping Center has a full bar, a deli, and a bakery full of goodies to enjoy along with live music and stage shows. Finally, the theater located at the Rockwell All Suite Hotel & Apartments launched in April 2015 and has already staged comedy performances, drag shows, and even a Michael Jackson tribute—all enjoyed with a meal of spicy chicken livers and the Big Three, which is a dessert consisting of malva pudding, peppermint crisp tart, and milk tart. The Rockwell also has its fair share of apartment rentals, meaning that good theater and excellent food is never too far away if you decide to stay there.

Burlesque Shows

Looking to feast your eyes on something that sizzles? Try a burlesque show. The Black Orchid Burlesque, the Rouge Review, the Burlesque Lounge and Studio, and the Thursday night staple of La Burlesque at Trinity Nightclub all showcase burlesque and boylesque shows to heat up your Cape Town nights.

Outdoor Theater

Take advantage of the beautiful Cape Town weather by attending a show outdoors. The Maynardville Open-Air Theatre in the Southern Suburbs hosts a famous Shakespeare-in-the-Park festival in January and February, while the Amphitheatre at the V&A Waterfront offers stage performances year round, many of which are free. The surrounding area has plenty of restaurants, shops, and museums to enjoy before and after your shows.