South Africa’s biggest movie exhibitor, has entered into a new partnership with the largest theatre complex in Africa, that will see theatre productions now premiering at their cinemas worldwide, starting from June.

Commenting on the collaboration, SA State Theatre’s artistic director, Aubrey Sekhabi, says: “While we are grappling with the pandemic, I believe this collaboration will change the performing arts game in South Africa, particularly that of theatre.

“Importantly, this collaboration gives us hope for the revival and future of theatre.”

He adds: “Now you can access theatre in various parts of our country. Many thanks to Ster-Kinekor Theatres for this empowering contribution”

Echoing Sekhabi’s sentiments, acting chief executive of Ster-Kinekor cinemas, Motheo Matsau, added: “Ster-Kinekor and Cinema Nouveau is proud to collaborate with the State Theatre to expand our event cinema repertoire in South Africa to feature local productions from incredibly talented actors, performers, writers, producers and directors on the big screen.

“This will provide the rest of the country an opportunity to watch the State Theatre’s productions they may have not ordinarily had the chance to see in the theatre itself.”

It’s worth noting that most theatre productions are exhibited live, for a limited time at South African State Theatres, usually for consecutive days which limits the viewers chances of catching their favorite practitioners on stage. It’s only when these showcases return months or a year later, that we get another chance to catch these productions. This partnership helps reserve the longevity of viewership with these productions. The ongoing income stream through multiple mediums should also help keep these institutions and creatives afloat.