Cape Town turns up the heat this winter with a vibrant lineup of events that celebrate art, design, music, and culture.
THEATRE/SHOWS
DIAMONDS – A SHIRLEY BASSEY TRIBUTE
Diamonds are forever celebrates the songs that Bassey recorded throughout her life. SAMA award winning songstress, Anna Davel in this joyous and soulful production of her personal highlights of Shirley Bassey’s seven-decade career. The audience can look forward to acoustic piano and vocal arrangements of some of her greatest hits including Never, Never, Never, Big Spender, Kiss me, Honey, Honey, and I am what I am.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St
When: 3-7 June 2025
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/diamonds-a-shirley-bassey-tribute/
ARTSCAPE YOUTH JAZZ SERIES 2025
Launched in 2003 as the Youth Jazz Festival, the event has grown to meet the rising interest and talent of young jazz musicians. Now called the Youth Jazz Series, it features Masterclasses led by industry professionals.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St
When: 13-14 June 2025
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/artscape-youth-jazz-series-2025/
MAJIKA: AFRICA’S GREATEST ILLUSIONISTS
Audience can expect a display of extraordinary magic, spectacular illusion and daredevil stunts. Featuring electrifying performances by a dynamic ensemble of illusionists. Including performers who have been featured on SA’s Got Talent, Britain’s Got Talent and Got Talent: ALL STARS.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St
When: 7-8 June 2025
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/majika-africas-greatest-illusionists/
PECHAKUCHA NIGHT
Ten fiery speakers will take to the stage with new ideas, bold questions and brilliant stories at the 66th event themed, “Clickety Click”. PechaKucha is a storytelling night with a room full of curious, creative Capetonians. Go along and roll the dice, take a chance, and discover just how powerful storytelling can be.
Where: District Six Homecoming Centre, Cnr Buitenkant and Caledon Sts
When: 19 June 2025
https://www.homecomingcentre.co.za/events
CAPE TOWN PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA WINTER SYMPHONIES
There are three shows on the programme in June – Brahms & Baranov, Mozart for Two, and II Trovatore. Conductor Thomas Sanderling will join violinist, Andrey Baranov for the first concert. The next show will feature soloists Tinus Botha and Megan-Geoffrey presenting a much-loved concerto for two pianos. Don’t miss the collaboration between the orchestra, CPO Afri-Arts Choir, and Opera UCT under the direction of Jeremy Silver, as they present a concert version of one of the most popular and dramatic operas, Il Trovatore.
Where: The City Hall
When: 12, 19, 26 June 2025
https://cpo.org.za/
CANDLELIGHT CONCERTS
Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in Cape Town. The Star at the District Six Homecoming Centre will host several concerts, including A Tribute to Coldplay on Strings, Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, Tribute to the Beatles, Coldplay vs Imagine Dragons and a Tribute to Fleetwood Mac.
Where: District Six Homecoming Centre, Cnr Buitenkant and Caledon Sts
When: From 21 June – 18 December 2025
https://feverup.com/en/cape-town-south-africa/candlelight
BLUEY’S BIG PLAY
Presented by BBC Studios and Andre Kay in association with Windmill Theatre Co., this children’s show has extraordinary puppets which bring Bluey to life. Don’t know who Bluey is? She’s the star of the Emmy® award-winning children’s television series, and this theatrical adaption’s tour of South Africa has an original story by Bluey creator Joe Brumm, and new music by Bluey composer, Joff Bush. Join the Heelers in their first live theatre show and take the kids to see Bluey in “real” life.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St
When: From 26 June – 6 July 2025
www.artscape.co.za/event/blueys-big-play/
ALISTAIR IZOBELL & LOUKMAAN ADAMS IN BACK 2 BACK
After a 42-year friendship and working relationship, Alistair and Loukmaan reflect on these two parts of their journey and accept that life is little bit different being older. The show is a laugh a minute reflection on their lives with the good, bad and ugly choices they made.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St
When: 1-5 July 2025
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/back-2-back/
OPERA BLOCKS FOREST FRIENDS
Cape Town Opera’s Opera Blocks will be hosted at various libraries in Cape Town.
Opera Blocks: Forest Friends is a magical mini-performance for ages 0–5, featuring music, movement, and visual wonder. Children and their guardians will explore a forest winter wonderland through song, play, and interactive props.
Presented with the Judith Neilson Foundation and City of Cape Town, and directed by Elizma Badenhorst, this enchanting show introduces children to the joys of opera in a fun, accessible way.
Where: Cape Town Central Library
When: 3 July 2025
https://www.webticket.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1569769803
SWAN LAKE
Cape Town City Ballet and Joburg Ballet join forces on stage to present one of the greatest classics in ballet. Featuring stunning choreography, exquisite costumes, and the timeless beauty of Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, this production promises an unforgettable experience.
Where: CTICC 1, 1 Lower Long St
When: 25-27 July 2025
https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1569630015
CHICAGO – THE MUSICAL
The award-winning musical Chicago returns to South Africa in 2025, bringing its sizzling jazz-filled spectacle back to the stage. Featuring iconic songs like All That Jazz, Cell Block Tango, and Razzle Dazzle, this production showcases a talented all-South African cast, including Kiruna-Lind Devar as Roxie Hart, Samantha Peo as Velma Kelly, and Jonathan Roxmouth as Billy Flynn.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St
When: 27 August – 28 September 2025
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/chicago/
DECOREX CAPE TOWN
Everything décor and design happens at Decorex Cape Town, and this year’s platform, entitled “The Future of Living”, will deliver the same high-end input of creativity and innovation complete with interesting talks, themed exhibitions, hip-and-happening brands and more. Join industry leaders and design fundis as they explore trends, including how technology and design are revolutionising our homes and improving our quality of life. There’ll be more than 230 companies showcasing the transformative designs and ideas that are shaping the way we live.
Where: CTICC 1, 1 Lower Long St
When: 5-8 June 2025
www.decorex.co.za/cape-town/en-gb.html
EXHIBITIONS
BLACKSASH: SEVEN STORIES OVER SEVEN DECADES
This exhibition traces Black Sash’s powerful journey, from resisting apartheid to building democracy, championing a Basic Income Grant, and leading the Hands Off Our Grants campaign. Today, the organisation continues to fight for dignity and social protection through advocacy, education, community monitoring, and a national helpline.
Featuring rare archives, original protest artefacts, and striking photography by anti-apartheid activist Gille de Vlieg, the exhibition is a tribute to past and present activists. It honours the courage of past and present activists and invites a new generation to stand for justice in the face of ongoing inequality.
Where: District Six Homecoming Centre, cnr Buitenkant & Caledon Sts
When: 2-30 June 2025
Cost: Free
https://www.homecomingcentre.co.za/events
MOTHERHOOD: PARADOX AND DUALITY
This exhibition brings together more than 70 artists across diverse media and time periods in South Africa to explore the complexities of mothering. The work reflects on the layered meanings and lived experiences of motherhood - raw, real, and powerful.
Where: The iZiko South African National Gallery
When: Currently showing until 23 February 2026.
https://www.iziko.org.za/exhibitions/motherhood-paradox-and-duality/
ACROSS THE LIVING LAND BY CHRIS DENOVAN
In this new series of paintings, Chris Denovan shifts his focus from the inner world of the body to the wide-open spaces of nature. The exhibition takes viewers through bright plains, calm lakes, and surreal deserts, where people, animals, and objects drift in and out of focus.
Where: 99 Loop Gallery
When: 7 June 2025
https://www.99loop.co.za/
FESTIVALS
HEAT WINTER ARTS FESTIVAL
Designed to invigorate the local arts scene during the quieter winter months, Heat Winter Arts Festival features a diverse lineup of art exhibitions, jazz, opera, theatre, stand-up comedy, and digital art programming. This year’s theme, “Other Worlding”, aims to create a platform for artists to engage in transformative cultural production, reflecting on the interplay between truth and fiction in artistic expression.
Where: Cape Town’s City Centre
When: 6-16 August 2025
https://www.heatfestival.org/
REGULAR EVENTS
Knit & Natter Group
First Sunday of the month
Those who love knitting and crocheting will feel at home at the Knit & Natter Group. Members meet on the first Sunday of each month to knit and crochet while sharing wonderful stories. Women from all walks of life are welcome to join and bring yarn and needles, ideas, current projects as well as snacks.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre (Marble Foyer), D.F. Malan St
When: 15h00-17h00
Cost: Free
www.artscape.co.za
Cape Town Craft Club
Every first and second Wednesday of the month
This bimonthly craft circle aims to get creative people together to make stuff in a laid-back, fun and judgment-free space. Absolutely everyone is welcome, from seasoned makers to those who haven’t picked up a crayon since childhood. Bring whatever you’re working on and join the circle whenever you feel like it.
Where: The Ladder on Bree
When: 18h00
https://capetowncraftclub.com/
Sunday Jazz Sessions
Sundays
Openwine hosts Jazz Sessions by talented local artists every week. These are followed by lively Sunday Jazz Jam Sessions.
Where: Openwine, 72 Wale St
When: 17h00
Cost: Free
@openwine_za
East City Sessions
Every Thursday
The classic cocktail lounge, restaurant and boutique bar offers an expertly curated selection of established jazz acts and up-and-coming experimental acts on Thursday nights. So, mark your calendars. While entry is free, booking via bookings@harringtonstreet.co.za is advised.
Where: Harringtons Cocktail Lounge, 61B Harrington St
When: 19h00
Cost: Free
@eastcitysessions
Sky-Hi Ride
Ongoing
Experience some of the best views of the city and a mighty adrenaline rush. An eye-catching feature on the 28th floor of Hotel Sky, Sky-Hi Ride is a 35-metre thrill ride that takes you up in a chair lift, giving you a bird's eye view of Cape Town. Weather permitting, the Sky-Hi Ride is open to hotel guests and outside visitors. You can purchase a ride or observer ticket. A ride is free on one’s birthday.
Where: 28th Floor, Hotel Sky, 9 Lower Long St
When: 12h00 – 20h00 (Tuesday to Sunday)
Cost: R200 per person via Webtickets
https://sky-hiride.capetown/
Free CBD Walking Tours
Ongoing
Keen to explore the CBD without breaking the bank? Join free walking tours that take place in town daily. Organisers are keen to make Cape Town walkable for everyone and tour operators therefore rely on tips from clients. Options include a Historic City and Apartheid to Freedom Tour, Apartheid to Freedom and Bo-Kaap Tour and the Bo-Kaap and Historic City Tour. For more information, email info@freewalkingtourscapetown.co.za.
Where: Meet at the Piazza on Church Square, Spin St
When: 11h00, 14h00 and 16h20
Cost: Free
http://bit.ly/3ELMAlt
Third House Poetry
Last Tuesday of the month
Third House is a community and open-mic poetry event to celebrate poetic talent. We facilitate a space in which poets can feel supported and inspired, share their work, exercise their creative voice, and network with other writers and creatives. Both established and novice poets are welcome.
Where: Selective Live, 189 Buitengracht St
When: 19h30
Cost: R50 at the door
@thirdhousepoetry
The Jam at Gorgeous George
Tuesdays
Musos keen on a jamming session have a home at the Gorgeous George hotel. The jam happens on Tuesdays and allows musicians to bring their instruments and play with other artists. Anyone is welcome, from music lovers to guitarists, singers, piano players to drummers.
Where: Gorgeous George, 118 St Georges Mall
When: From 08h00 – 23h00
Cost: Free
@gorgeousgeorgecpt
Jazz Night at Amber on Bree
Enjoy the beautiful sounds of jazz at Amber on Bree on Thursday nights.
Where: Amber on Bree, 16 on Bree, Shop 1 & 2
When: 20h00 – 22h00
Cost: Free
www.amber-restaurants.co.za
Live Jazz at The Athletic Club & Social
Thursday to Saturday
The Athletic Club & Social hosts live jazz musicians from Wednesday to Saturday. Aside from the great line-up of artists each week, the three-storey venue has impressive food and cocktail menus and offers great views of Signal Hill. Tickets are available via Quicket. There is also a bar service.
Where: The Athletic Club & Social, 35 Buitengracht St
When: 21h30
Cost: R100
www.theathletic.co.za
The Blue Room at Grub & Vine
Ongoing
Treat yourself to the sounds of jazz and blues, delicious cocktails and food at The Blue Room at Grub & Vine every week from Tuesday to Saturday. Check out the venue’s website and social media pages to see who is performing next. A pre-show dinner is also available between 18h00 and 20h00. A selection of spirits, wine and beers are also served from 16h00 until late.
Where: Grub & Vine, 103 Bree St
When: 20h00 – 20h40 (first session) 21h00 – 21h40 (second session), 22h00 (third session)
Cost: Cover charge of R200 per person (may differ for some artists)
www.grubandvine.co.za/the-blue-room/
Story time for children at the Book Lounge
Every Saturday
On Saturday mornings, Book Lounge staffers can be found reading wonderfully illustrated picture books from their beautiful and thoughtful children’s collection. There is a colouring activity sheet afterwards. All welcome, no RSVP required.
Where: Book Lounge, 71 Roeland St
When: 11h00
Cost: Free
www.booklounge.co.za
First Thursdays
First Thursday of every month
Where: Cape Town CBD including inside galleries and restaurants
When: 17h00 till late
Cost: Free
www.first-thursdays.co.za
IMAGES: District Six Homecoming Centre, Candlelight Concert, Decorex, Cape Town Central Library, Iziko Museums of South Africa