Missing video
Sorry, this video could not be found.
Hot theatre seasoned by a subtropical clime
Durban's theatres
The Barnyard Theatre, family theatre fare.
Did you know?
The
Durban's theatres are headed by the classic Playhouse complex, Durban's premier theatre venue, which showcases award-winning dramas, ballet and opera.
Following closely is the popular Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre, based at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, home to highbrow shows, film festivals and an annual literary festival.
For experimental and indigenous theatre in Durban, head over to the harbour where you'll find the BAT Centre, which boasts several art studios, galleries, dance studios and retail shops. Here you can imbibe the heady spoken word, as stand-up poets combine storytelling, rap, tradition and philosophy.
The Kwasuka is here too, a quaint landmark theatre situated in a turn-of-the-century church, with an outside courtyard that's perfectly suited to alfresco performances.
The Catalina Theatre is an elegant 160-seater, state-of-the-art facility specialising in comedy, concerts, musicals and revues. It boasts floor-to-ceiling windows so you can drink in the panoramic harbour views. Find it at Wilson's Wharf off the Esplanade in Durban (eThekwini).
Durban (eThekwini) theatres also offer tasty supper-theatre combos, so if that's your bag then pay a visit to the Heritage Theatre in Hillcrest, or the maritime-themed Dockyard Supper Theatre. Both specialise in live music revues and feature à la carte restaurants.
And if raucous, informal theatre featuring popular music revues is your cup of tea, then the popular Barnyard Theatre at Gateway Theatre of Shopping in Umhlanga will pique your interest. One of a string of Barnyard's countrywide; Durban's Barnyard Theatre has its usual countryside ambience, replete with rustic furniture. Take along your own picnic basket.
Krakatoa Show Bar specialises in cabaret, while the quirky Rhumbelow Theatre in Umbilo is a popular venue for top-class drag shows.
The theatres of Durban will have you whooping with delight as performers take their final bows. Consult daily newspapers for listings. Most tickets can be booked at the theatres or through national ticket tout, Computicket.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
The Playhouse
Tel: +27 (0) 31 369 9596
The Catalina Theatre
Tel: +27 (0) 31 305 6889
Kwasuka Theatre
Tel: +27 (0) 31 309 2236
iZulu Theatre
Tel: +27 (0) 31 580 5555
The BAT Centre
Tel: +27 (0) 31 332 0451
Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre
Tel: +27 (0) 31 260 1111 or (0)31 260 2296
The Barnyard
Tel: +27 (0) 31 566 3045
Rhumbelow Theatre
Tel: +27 (0) 31 205 7602
Dockyard Supper Theatre
Tel: +27 (0) 31 201 9147
The Courtyard Theatre
Tel: +27 (0) 31 308 5111 or (0) 31 373 2194
The Heritage Theatre
Tel: +27 (0) 31 765 4197
How to get here
Durban's theatres are all close to town and easily accessible by road.
Get around
Most taxi cabs will be able to collect you and drop you at the theatre door.
What will it cost
The cost of shows differs from theatre to theatre. Consult each theatre website, or check online with Computicket.
What to eat
Some of Durban's theatre complexes come replete with restaurants and coffee shops offering meals and refreshments. At some, for instance the Barnyard chain, you can even bring your own pre-packed picnic basket.