Durban Playhouse – The show will go on

The historic prestigious Playhouse stands proud in Smith Street, (now Anton Lembede Street) opposite the Durban City Hall. This flamboyant landmark was originally used as a bioscope in 1926. Visitors would dress up in their best attire and go to the glamorous Prince’s Theatre to watch the latest movies like the original 007.

The theatre was adjacent to the Playhouse which originally opened its doors to the public in 1935. Famous performers like Cliff Richard and the Shadows entertained Durban crowds at the Playhouse in the mid-1960’s.

The two famous landmarks underwent extensive renovations in 1980, and great care was taken to ensure that their original characteristics and architectural features were preserved.

The English Renaissance inspiration is clearly visible through the black and white exterior, the hitching posts and heavy oaken doors at the entrance, and the simulation of an old portcullis, used in the earlier days as a means of defence.

When you enter the breathtaking building you are welcomed by the grand staircase that leads to the dining hall, which is panelled with oak in a tracery design. The windows are covered with curtains made of rich materials and the lighting resembles candlesticks that sets the atmosphere for glamorous evenings.

In the tea room/tavern the medieval theme comes through very strong. There is an open balcony and entertainer gallery and the walls are covered with stone and strategically placed panel windows.

There are two main theatres in the Durban Playhouse. The main theatre is called the Opera Theatre and can seat 1224, decorated in Elizabethan décor and atmospheric ‘starry sky’. The second theatre is the state-of-the art Drama Theatre it was the original bioscope and is now a venue for live performances seating up to 464.

As a cultural institution The Playhouse Company receives public funding from the South African National Government and the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government ensuring that the show will always go on at this historic Durban landmark.

Source: 5 Star Durban