Artscape takes Rural Outreach Project to Riversdale with vibrant production 'Kunstetreffers'

The magic of theatre is heading to the Hessequa region as Artscape launches its much-loved Rural Outreach Project – bringing the colourful production 'Kunstetreffers' to the Riversdale Civic Hall on 15 and 16 October. 

From ballet and opera to hip-hop and African contemporary dance, the project (a partnership with local municipalities and the Western Cape Education Department) celebrates the raw artistic talent that thrives in rural communities.

Artscape Theatre CEO Dr Marlene le Roux says the initiative is about more than performance; it’s about opportunity. 

"Learners will be exposed to a wide range of career opportunities in the creative industry, including technical roles."

Young people will get hands-on experience in the arts – learning sound, lighting, stage management, and marketing... while discovering that creativity can also be a career.

"We're going to work with young people in our communities, and we're going to say the arts is alive, but it's also important that we look at job creation in the arts," Le Roux eplains.

This year’s lineup features artists from across the Western Cape, including the award-winning Unmute Dance Company, Dance for All, and rising local talent.

But the real showstoppers, says Le Roux, will be the pupils.

She adds that for Artscape, it’s not just about taking theatre to the people, it’s about bringing people together through theatre.

"We are not just taking the theatre to the people; it is what the people want to have and what the people's interests are, but also talent is of utmost importance."

To listen to Marlene le Roux in conversation with CapeTalk's Clarence Ford, click on the audio below: