The grand opening of the historic Cape Town structure, City Hall took place on 27 September and was hosted by the City of Cape Town to showcase the new refurbishments made.
The renovations of City Hall have been carried out over a nine-month period and have given the 113-year-old structure a new lease on life with detailed upgrades to ensure that it maintains its functionality. Previous major renovations of the structure took place in 1947.
Improvements and changes to the structure included upgrading the auditorium seating, restoring and stabilising the floors as well as implementing a new mechanical ventilation and fire system. The total refurbishments and renovations amounted to R48-million, with further improvements to the structure planned for 2019.
Implemented refurbishments will ensure that the City Hall is compliant with the national safety regulations.
The inaugural re-opening of the hall consisted of live musical performances that celebrate the diverse heritage of South Africans and took attendees on a trip down memory lane.
Celebrations as we open the newly refurbished City Hall auditorium with some of the finest musical talent in Cape Town this heritage month. Cape Town’s 113 year old Grand Dame has undergone a makeover and we are ready to host more world-class events at this iconic venue. pic.twitter.com/JOMHQZjk7e
— Patricia de Lille (@PatriciaDeLille) September 26, 2018
The newly improved seating area showcases a world class experience for audiences, the deep red adds to the true theatrical environment.
State of the art projector screens have been added.
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The Royal Variety Show ?? This show was absolutely amazing! I was honoured to be a part of it ?
The City hall is known as a key landmark for Cape Town and the recent addition of the Bronze Nelson Mandela statue on the balcony in July 2018 has added to the historic significance of the building.
The City of Cape Town’s Executive Mayor, Patricia De Lille explains the legacy behind the newly implemented bronze statue.
“It was here at the City Hall that Madiba made his first speech as a free man following his release from 27 years in prison,” she said.
The City is currently in the process of looking towards implementing upgrades surrounding the City Hall and the Grande Parade area to establish it as an events venue.
Picture: Facebook