New chapter begins for old library
The Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (EMM) is converting the old library into a R40-million, state-of-the-art theatre.
The Germiston Carnegie Library, one of 12 that were constructed in the early 1900s in South Africa, will once again be the epicenter of creativity.
The Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (EMM) is converting the old library into a R40-million, state-of-the-art theatre.
The EMM’s spokesperson, Mr Themba Gadebe, said the 400-seat playhouse, situated at the center of the Germiston CBD, promises to be the heart of performing arts in the city and perhaps, the province.
“The theatre will boast hi-tech features, including modern acoustics and lighting systems, a noble stage, backstage, change rooms, exhibition areas on the ground floor and a VIP lounge on the first floor. All of the present-day features however, will only be secondary as the focal point of the architecture will be the remaining walls of the Carnegie Library, which was built in 1915,” said Mr Gadebe.
Mr Gadebe said the remnants of the three façade walls will be retained and blended in with fresh concrete walls, covered with glass all around to give birth to a glossy, world-class performing arts theatre. “According to the National Heritage Council, heritage is what is preserved from the past as the living collective memory of a people, not only to inform the present about the past, but also to equip successive generations to fashion their future.
“Heritage encompasses cultural articles such as language and customs, as well as physical objects like buildings or artifacts. This facility, which shaped great minds in the past, will now enrich the future of the performing arts in the city,” said Mr Gadebe.
The construction of the theatre is expected to be completed in October 2016.
