Experience courage and connection through these must-see Cape Town theatre shows
Paper and roses explores freedom and the power of choice.
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Paper + Roses
This musical is set in The Provenance, a world where books are banned and information is tightly controlled. Society is divided into two groups, The Mint and The Torn, and in this constrained environment, a reimagined "Beauty and the Beast" story unfolds, using 1990s hits to carry the narrative.
At its core, the musical explores freedom and the power of choice. The factions represent conformity versus individuality, showing how systems can shape behaviour and how courage is required to challenge limits.
Audiences see characters navigate these divisions, learning that curiosity and bravery can create connections even in rigid circumstances.
Another strong theme is the importance of storytelling. In a world where books are forbidden, the characters’ creativity, music, and movement become acts of resistance. The story highlights that stories shape identity, inspire action, and keep hope alive.
The musical also reflects on connection and empathy. Despite their differences, characters find understanding and common ground, suggesting that human relationships can overcome boundaries.
Where: The Outlore Base.
When: Runs until January 31, at 6pm (times may vary).
Grommels
Grommels is a children’s theatre production for ages 2–8, written, directed and performed by Angelique Filter and Robert Hindley. In a small grey world, colour exists only as memory, where the last two shades, Bluegrommel and Yellowgrommel, catch rain and sunlight, respectively.
Every day is routine, until a day arrives that turns their world upside down. As the wall around them shifts, opposites meet in a magical moment, showing that beauty and joy can flourish in quiet simplicity if you just open your eyes.
Where: The Methodist Church Hall in Observatory.
When: Saturday, January 24, to Sunday, January 25, at 10am and 2pm.
The Opera Singer
Fiona Ramsay commands the stage alongside the warm, resonant tones of Owain Rees-Davies in a production. The performance charts the life of a devoted artist, capturing the relentless pursuit of craft, excellence, and personal growth.
"The Opera Singer" portrays the toll of dedication, the sacrifices, the strain and the personal cost of chasing perfection.
Where: Baxter Studio.
When: From Tuesday, January 20, to Saturday, February 7, at 3pm and 8pm.