You may have been wondering what is happening in the Cape Dutch-style building in Madeley Road, Hughes.
Well, the Advertiser recently explored the building, which has charming historic features with a few modern touches added to its interior.
During the tour, the property owner, Ansley Twigge (72,) shared a brief history of the Cape Dutch property and what its function is in the community.
Here’s a brief look at the history of the building:
The building has a dual purpose, serving as a concert hall for up-and-coming young musicians and a home for the music-loving Twigge family.
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“We bought the house in 2000 as our dream home from the initial homeowners who had the house built in the 70s in the style known as Cape Dutch, which has its roots in the native Netherlands, and also has a traditional architectural style found mostly in the Western Cape province,” explained Ansley.
According to Ansley, the Covid-19 lockdown, which has seen many young people spending time idling at home, prompted him and his wife, Adeline, to convert part of the building to a concert hall to benefit young performers.
“As a music-loving family, we discovered that there was a need to provide youngsters who aspire to become professional musicians or singers, as well as small choirs and other performing artists, with a stage.
“We started the Madeley House Concert Hall project just after the first 21-day lockdown, and the main objective was to help young up-and-coming performers to showcase their work and develop their skills,” stated Ansley.
The family described the facility as an intimate small venue to promote and nurture young talent, with a beautifully maintained garden that may be used for picnics afterwards.
The venue seats up to 70 audiences and is located near key amenities, including OR Tambo International Airport, taxi rank East Rand Mall and major roads.
“Our key motivation is to uplift the local community through light contemporary and classic music and the performing arts.”
The facility is accessible to both amateurs and professionals and the audience members. However, although the facility is available free of charge to young up-and-coming artists and their audiences, the project also accommodates professionals who may want to hire the venue at an affordable fee.
