Zip Zap Circus has a new location but they need around R100 million for construction
The Zip Zap Circus' time at The Dome at the Founder's Garden outside The Artscape Theatre has come to an end. While new premises have been found, R65 million to R100 million is needed for construction.
John Maytham speaks to Zip Zap Circus Co-Founder, Brent van Rensburg.
The Zip Zap Circus' time at The Dome at the Founder's Garden outside The Artscape Theatre has come to an end.
After 16 years of thrilling audiences with dazzling performances in Cape Town’s city centre, the Zip Zap Circus is moving.
The location change comes after the Western Cape Government announced about three years ago that the space will be used for a building development which will include affordable housing.
So, where will the Zip Zap Circus set up their tent next?
A new performance site is being discussed for the popular circus, but funds need to be raised for this.
Meanwhile, the Zip Zap Academy in Salt River will continue to run programmes and teach.
Zip Zap's new venue will be at the Artscape Theatre Centre’s Plaza forecourt and the building which has been approved for planning is set to be 'one-of-a-kind,' says Van Rensburg.
"It'll be a one-of-a-kind venue in South Africa for sure to host all kinds of functions and circus shows from abroad... the horizon is looking challenging but exciting."
- Brent van Rensburg, Zip Zap Circus - Co-Founder
However, to get construction started for Zip Zap Circus' new home, R65-million is needed, but the total cost will be closer to R100-million, says van Rensburg.
For now, van Rensburg says the organisation is relying mostly on funding from international donors to help get to their goal 'which is taking longer than anticipated.'
The income generated from the Zip Zap Arena will go back into the organisation and cover the venue’s running expenses.
Until the necessary funds are raised, there will be some down-time as the Zip Zap Circus gets ready for a global tour.
On 7 September, the circus will take their first professional tour to the world stage, touring around the USA, France and Broadway.
"We don't give up at Zip Zap, we've been going for 32 years and the whole idea is to make sure we keep going for a lot longer."
- Brent van Rensburg, Zip Zap Circus - Co-Founder
Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the full conversation.