The Homecoming Centre (HCC) is an extension of the District Six Museum. The space is multi-purpose but serves to display art and performances as a way of connecting and educating communities and keeping memories alive.
The venue holds various spaces suited for different performances’ needs, including the Star Theatre (previously the Fugard), the Avalon Auditorium, Bits ‘n Pieces galleries, Tafel, workspaces and a cafe run by the team at Café Societi.
The HCC was created as an extension to District Six’s area and museum to celebrate the rich culture and history of the people and place it sits in.
Also read: The final District Six Public Realm Study is online and open to the public
The centre’s history
The HCC is situated on the same road as the museum, Buitenkant Street, at number 15, which is known to most Capetonians as the Sacks Futeran textile and soft goods warehouse.
Sacks Futeran is an important part of the history of District Six, being the place that many seamstresses and tailors from the area purchased their fabrics over time, as well as the place where families purchased baby clothing or wedding outfits.
The HCC is important in a few ways. As well as creating a “homecoming” space for people, providing education and acting as a memory archive, the facility also assists the museum in financial sustainability by providing space for rental.
The building is significant in today’s social and political issues because it facilitates discussion of issues related to return and restitution in our city.
The museum uses the HCC as a base for workshops, launches, administration and any activities they host through their programmes.
The programmes and exhibitions in the buildings work together to create an educational environment in which visitors are given the opportunity to gain a greater understanding of a part of our city’s history.
Upcoming events
Salome: More Than Enough
Musician Salome takes a look at her journey in the music industry and how music has helped her through her hardest times.
- Date: 19 November
- Location: Star Theatre, Homecoming Centre
- Time: 8pm
- Tickets: R195
Book tickets here.
Specifically Cathy
Recent Naledi Theatre Awards winner Brendan van Rhyn gives audiences a sneak peak into the life of his alter-ego, or voice of reason, Cathy Specific.
The performance is fun, lighthearted and takes you on a journey back to 1984, the year that Brendan put on a dress for the first time.
Cathy made her debut in 2007 as an intimidating but regal woman. And Brendan invites you to see where she is now.
- Dates: 24-25 November
- Location: Star Theatre, Homecoming Centre
- Time: 8pm
- Tickets: R280-R350
Book tickets here.
The Worst Year of My Life
Craig Lucas collaborates with SAMPRA to present “The Worst Year of My Life” – a show that deals with feelings of celebration, loss and everything life throws at you.
Different from his previous performances, Craig uses a blend of both original music and gospel music that brought him comfort during a difficult year.
The show will feature gospel classics including “Alabaster Box”, “Amazing Grace” and “His Eye Is on The Sparrow”, as well as reimagined versions of classics such as “Smother” and “Purple Rain”.
- Date: 26 November
- Location: Star Theatre, Homecoming Centre
- Time: 8pm
- Tickets: R175 – R225
Book tickets here.
The Secret Garden
The Cape Town Theatre Company returns this summer with a magical new production of Frances Burnett’s iconic and beloved tale.
The story takes the audience on an adventure as the orphan Mary, living in her cruel uncle’s manor, explores the grounds and discovers a magical secret garden. Alongside her are Dickon, a boy who can talk to animals, and her stubborn and grumpy cousin, Colin.
The show is vibrant and visually pleasing, with a talented cast of 23 performers there to dazzle you. The show is staged by award-winning designer and director Stephan Fourie.
- Dates: 9-17 December
- Location: Star Theatre, Homecoming Centre
- Time: 7pm and 2pm depending on the day
- Tickets: From R150
Book tickets here.
Access
The centre has facilities for people with walking disabilities, with a ramp at one of the entrances as well as a wheelchair hoist.
There is a ramp between the different levels on the ground floor, with a lift to the first and second floors.
Also read:
Picture: IOL
