After 16 years of captivating audiences in Cape Town’s city centre, Zip Zap Circus is on the hunt for a new home. Their lease for ‘The Dome’ in the Founders Garden outside the Artscape Theatre ends early next year.
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In 2020, the Western Cape Government announced plans to use the land for a high-rise, mixed-use development, including affordable housing.
Discussions for a new performance site are underway, but fundraising is needed. Meanwhile, the Zip Zap academy in Salt River will continue its programmes and teachings.
‘The Dome has been crucial to our success,’ said Brent van Rensburg, co-founder of Zip Zap Circus.
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‘We’re grateful for the 16 years we had there. It allowed us to grow exponentially.’
The Dome also served as a secondary income source, being rented out for corporate events.
Fortunately, the Western Cape Government has proposed a new site for the circus at the Artscape Theatre Centre’s Plaza forecourt. Van Rensburg envisions a permanent performance space called the ‘Zip Zap Arena,’ which will cater to circus arts and other art forms like drama, ballet, dance, and opera. The arena will feature retractable seating for versatile event hosting.
The project requires R65 million to start, with the total cost nearing R100 million. Income from the Zip Zap Arena will support the organisation and cover running expenses. The new design will resemble a traditional circus tent with a modern twist.
Zip Zap Circus was founded by van Rensburg and Laurence Estève 32 years ago with a box of costumes, a trapeze bar in a tree, and a big dream. They funded the circus school through their work as trapeze artists and stunt performers. Today, the organisation educates around 3 000 students annually through various programmes.
Beyond performances, Zip Zap Circus is dedicated to education and upliftment. They run nine programmes year-round, partnering with Early Childhood Development centres, the Western Cape Education Department, and clinics in disadvantaged areas. They also have an advanced circus programme and a professional troupe called ‘Moya,’ which includes 10 performers who are paid and tour internationally.
‘I’m sad to see The Dome close, as it’s where I started my dream,’ said 22-year-old Akho Narwele, a Moya performer from Nyanga who specialises in juggling. Jason Barnard, a coach and performer who has been with Zip Zap for about 16 years, shared similar sentiments, recalling how the place has been a significant part of his life.
‘Zip Zap Circus changes young people’s lives,’ said Marlene le Roux, chief executive of the Artscape Theatre.
‘Art is a powerful vehicle to unite our nation in our diversity.’
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Picture: Zip Zap Circus / X