live cape town

On Broadway do get around but they seem to have found their place now. Their new venue, 44 Long Street, where the old Space Theatre was and more recently the New Space Theatre. Driving up Long Street for my first visit at Russel Shapiro’s new venue, I soon noticed the On Broadway sign, it’s hard to miss, and I  realized what an excellent addition to an already buzzing Long Street, On Broadway is.

The popular dinner/theatre venue had humble beginnings, taking an old brothel on Somerset Road (where the New Cape Quarter is now) and turning it into one of Cape Town’s most popular dinner/theatre venues.  I always enjoyed that spot, the open windows letting in the fresh air and on occasions the sounds of the street. It was homely and comfortable but probably not the best venue for performers or ideal for audiences.

They then moved to Shortmarket Street to a larger, trendier venue. Green Point seated 120, while Shortmarket seated 150. Comfortable with a larger capacity, they still maintained their intimate dinner/theater arrangement. I always enjoy a drink with my theatre and its comforting having a bar within winking distance of your table – not that I would ever wink, I’m a blinker not a winker.

Shapiro, never one to rest on his laurels, and not afraid of a challenge, was unhappy with the new terms offered to him by his landlord and at the same time the New Space Theatre became available. He jumped at the opportunity to relocate and On Broadway has a new home. Things are slightly different this time; they have taken the space downstairs and made it their restaurant, with much of the same fare as the old and they have two theatres seating about 200 on the first floor and 95 upstairs.

Our show was at the larger theatre. 3 Tons of fun are really that – Three larger than life big mamas with more attitude, energy, talent and curves than this skinny white man can handle. Michelle Thomas, Bulelwa Cosa And Nontokozo Sithembile Mfuphi paid homage to South African music moving effortlessly from Brenda Fassie and Judith Sephuma to Mandoza, Mango Groove and others. Their energy is infectious and their fan club of eclectic supporters taking up the two back rows, added more sound, fun and colour to a very enjoyable show.

The theatre style seating means more people in a smaller space and more atmosphere, although nipping off to the loo mid show and arriving late is a no no as it means you need to walk to your seat in front of the stage. Not cool, especially those that did arrive late.

The show was great – my only two minor complaints for the new venue; the sound was o.k but lacking slightly  in quality and I’m not sure the air con was working as it got very hot and stuffy in the theatre with no air flow or fans to cool the air.

Minor gripes aside, I like the old style theatre and the separation of the restaurant and theatre works, even if I miss sitting at a table with spare drink at the ready instead of it being under my seat – drinks are allowed into the theatre.  Never mind, this venue should thrive with its new tenant and bring some additional spark to Cape Town’s favourite party street.

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