Live Arts Little Theatre to re-launch in brand new showroom

The theatre is currently situated in Cason, but will be moving to an improved venue.

The concept of an acting academy and joint theatre came into fruition in 2012 by the then 22-year-old Louw Breytenbach, who decided to renovate an abandoned restaurant.

With very limited funding of savings with which he was planning to put down a deposit to buy a new car, and help from friends and drama students he coached at the time, the theatre was born.

The charity organisation, Outreach Unlimited, sponsored the renovation of the kitchen into a dance hall.

Since then the theatre has changed the face of the East Rand’s artistic scene by playing host to more than 150 shows and charity functions, drawing celebrities from all over the country to perform.

The acting academy, run by Breytenbach, consists of 90 full-time students.

The theatre has since its existence also played host to numerous birthday parties, ladies teas, art exhibitions and private launches, including that of the Rotary Club, Jabula Dames, Lady Gracious and Miss Deaf South Africa.

Live Arts Little Theatre will be open for business at The Terminal, with a special performance by well-known South African muzo, Jan Blohm, to celebrate this new chapter in theatre history.

The official re-launch event will take place in a glitzy Great Gatsby-themed setting, where artists and celebs from across Johannesburg will come together for the official ribbon-cutting ceremony and opening concert.

The new theatre building is a double-volume showroom and will consist of a main theatre, dance hall, two classrooms, tuck-shop, props-department and a chill-lounge.

There will also be display units of the latest designs by well-known jewellery designer, Ulricke Loubcher of Wooden Lace, making the theatre the first and only of its kind in Johannesburg.

Community members interested in attending this event can send an e-mail to liveartstheatre@gmail.com or contact Breytenbach 072 204 6649. – @IschkeBoksburg