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Christine Skinner
Iconic Cape Town venue, The Masque, has launched a series of youth programmes, putting the talent, passion and creativity of young people centre stage!
The Youth Theatre Club and Curtain Up Club have been established to offer children of all ages the chance to experience the magic of theatre.
“Our youth are the next generation of actors, technicians, front of house staff and audience members,” says The Masque Vice Chairperson and volunteer, Christine Kaye. “Moreover, theatre training instills confidence, builds life skills and encourages social interaction, whether you are a budding industry player or not!”
“It doesn’t matter if your child is just starting or a seasoned performer, The Masque offers a nurturing environment to explore creativity, learn new skills and make lifelong memories.”
The Masque’s Youth Theatre Club is aimed at unlocking a world of benefits for theatre enthusiasts aged 8-16. As a member of the Youth Theatre Club, you’ll have access to cool, informal hangouts at the theatre, awesome newsletters filled with theatre news, tips, and stories and the chance to explore movement, storytelling and more.
You’ll also get a 5% discount on children’s tickets to kids shows at The Masque. Membership costs R50 per show season (annual renewal - May to May).
Once part of the Youth Theatre Club, your child can join the Curtain Up Club which offers weekly drama classes, held during term times, led by experienced theatre practitioners. Designed for 8 – 16 year olds, you can take part in fun, warm-up games, voice training, acting exercises, and team-building activities, as well as the chance to audition for The Masque’s annual production!
The Curtain Up Club is run by two theatrical powerhouse organisations: The Masque and Spotlight Youth Theatre.
Together, they are bridging the gap between generations and nurturing a deeper connection to the world of theatre. Through the Curtain Up Club, children can not only develop their dramatic skills but also gain valuable insight into the inner workings of the stage.
With drama maven Melanie O'Connor Horn at the helm, alongside the highly skilled Deborah Gildenhuys, these classes promise to be nothing short of transformative.
“With The Masque's dedication to making theatre accessible for all and Spotlight Youth Theatre's commitment to nurturing young talent, the stage is set for something truly extraordinary,” says Melanie O’Connor Horn.
Embodying more than entertainment, The Masquerepresents a community-driven ethos that traces its roots back to 1959. It was then that Bertie Stern's vision shattered barriers, extending an open invitation to artists from diverse backgrounds. Situated in the lively heart of Muizenberg, the Masque has remained a steadfast beacon of community-centered performance for over six decades.
Spotlight Youth Theatre has an impressive 28-year legacy of fostering young talent, Spotlight Youth Theatre is dedicated to igniting a passion for the dramatic arts. Led by experienced professionals, their engaging youth theatre clubs strive to inspire, educate, and empower the next generation of performers.
Note: Children need to be members of the Youth Theatre Club to join the Curtain Up Club and enjoy these exciting benefits.
Sign up for The Masque’s Youth Club newsletter, to get all the updates about these exciting opportunities.
The Masque is situated at 37 Main Rd, Muizenberg, Cape Town, 7950, South Africa.
Parking is available at the venue. Wheelchair Access and Facilities available.
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Nestled within the heart of Cape Town's rich cultural landscape lies the Masque, a beloved institution boasting over six decades of history. Founded by the visionary Bertie Stern over fifty years ago in an era marked by segregation, the Masque boldly stood as a beacon of inclusivity, welcoming participants of all backgrounds through its doors.
Despite facing trials, from a devastating fire to the challenges of the COVID pandemic, the Masque's resilience has only strengthened its resolve. Fueled by a passionate community of volunteers and guided by principles of accessibility and equality, the Masque remains a beacon of artistic engagement.
Today, under the dedicated stewardship of the Stern Masque Theatre Trust, the Masque continues to thrive, curating high-quality amateur productions and enriching the lives of all who grace its stage or sit in its audience. With each performance, it reaffirms its commitment to celebrating the limitless creativity of the human spirit.
As another season unfolds, we extend a warm invitation to all to join us at the Masque, to immerse yourselves in the magic of live theater, and to become part of a legacy that continues to inspire generations. Come, be captivated, and experience the unforgettable at the Masque.