The theatre complex comprises three venues. The Nelson Mandela Theatre (the only one in the world with that name) is regarded as the most technically advanced in the southern hemisphere, and is the largest in the complex (although not the largest in the country), with a seating capacity of 1061 people, and a stage area of 400 square metres. The Tesson Theatre can seat 251 people, and has a stage area of 72 square metres. The People's Theatre - also known as the Children's Theatre because children's plays are produced here - can seat 176 people.
The 40-year-old Johannesburg Civic Theatre has a glamorous front, with facilities for private dining, corporate functions, business meetings, and office parties. It has a curio shop, Internet cafe, coffee shop, box office, and a retail environment called Times Square.
Tours of the building offer a look at what happens backstage. Everything behind the scenes is computer operated. The stage is made up of five elevators, with three storeys underneath to allow the elevators to move up and down. Sound effects are also computer generated. The tour reveals a lot of theatrical tricks, and also shows some of the outfits and masks.
Interior photographs, facts, and figures courtesy of Johannesburg News Agency, operated by BIG Media, 011-484-1400, www.joburg.org.za.
Address:
Loveday Street (continuation of Rissik Street), Braamfontein
Hours:
Monday to Friday: during working hours
Phone:
011-877-6831 or 083-324-2543 (Justine Lipson, House Manager)
Phone (theatre):
011-877-6800
E-mail:
justine@showbusiness.co.za
Cost:
The tour of the building costs R10 per person, and bookings ought
to be confirmed one week in advance.
Refreshments:
Available for purchase