Arts Manager Beatrice Esterhuysen said she burst out in tears when she saw how beautifully the foyer and new reception areas had been redecorated by the Oakhurst Insurance Company.
As recently as April, Oakhurst announced their new partnership with the George Society of Arts, who own the building. "This is my second home. I spend a lot of time here and to work in such a glamorous area is a real bonus," explained Esterhuysen. An elated Heather Stead, the chairperson of the arts society, said that because of the new glamorous look, guests may feel like dressing up and treating an evening at the theatre as an occasion to look forward to.
She reminded guests of the 18 June black tie gala evening when the cast of Razzle Dazzle 'Em will roll out their variety concert. The public will have the opportunity to try out the coffee at the new Backstage Lounge Café. She thanked Peter Grindlay, Oakhurst MD, for his vision and Lindsay Hogan, project manager, and Werner Ferreira, construction manager, for a job well done. To date the company has spent R500 000
on a total revamp.
On Friday guests also got to sample the freshly brewed coffee. Brad Hogan and his team did themselves proud by coming up with bright new reception areas - lit up with crystal chandeliers, white wood panelling, contemporary wallpaper and plush curtains and carpeting.
"We are thrilled with the results. Phase one of the renovations went off to a speedy start - with the painting of the exterior, renovating and redecorating the foyer, front house spaces, updating the backstage areas and dressing rooms, as well as painting and fixing the building's roof.
"Phase two of the renovations was to build an extension between the theatre building and the wardrobe area. This new extended area, which will now be named The Backstage Lounge Café boasts a full kitchen, cafe tables and comfortable lounge area," said Grindlay.
Had they been around, well-known Oudtshoorn architect Charles Bullock, the architect of the 1905 girls finishing school, and Christine van Niekerk, the principal of the former girls school, surely would have given their nod of approval to the new look of this historic landmark.
The dynamic force behind the Razzle Dazzle 'Em variety show, Edwina and John Rapley, who have been spending months in rehearsals to stage a grand variety performance on 18 June showcasing local talent.
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