Difference between revisions of "The Mechanics' Institute"
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The Institute is cited as the venue for a number of theatrical companies in Cape Town in the 19th century, but unfortunately the Institute was not profitable and the building was sold - according to Bosman (1980, p. 319) probably to the [[Cape Town Institute and Club]], and eventually making way for the Club's new theatre in 1876. | The Institute is cited as the venue for a number of theatrical companies in Cape Town in the 19th century, but unfortunately the Institute was not profitable and the building was sold - according to Bosman (1980, p. 319) probably to the [[Cape Town Institute and Club]], and eventually making way for the Club's new theatre in 1876. | ||
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== Sources == | == Sources == | ||
Revision as of 06:48, 22 August 2019
The Mechanics' Institute in Cape Town was on occasion used as a venue for theatrical and other performances and presentations.
Contents
The concept of Mechanics' Institutes
Mechanics' Institutes (or simply "Institutes") are educational establishments, originally founded in 1821 to provide adult education, particularly in technical subjects, to working men. There have been numerous such intitutions across the globe over the years.
For an overview of the history, aims and functions of these institutions internationally , see the entry on "Mechanics' Institutes" in Wikipedia[1]
The Mechanics' Institute in Cape Town
The Mechanics' Institute in Cape Town was founded in September 1853. Situated in Burg Street, it was apparently instituted mainly to keep the youth occupied and to give them some background and training in science and technology.
According to Broom (February, 1900, cited by Bosman, 1980:p102, footnote 263), the building contained, among other things, "a large concert room, in which vocal and instrumental amateur concerts were nightly given and where stump speeches, recitations and other amusements drew audiences, both of the members and of the general public." Broom also refers to the hall as the Music Hall.
The Institute is cited as the venue for a number of theatrical companies in Cape Town in the 19th century, but unfortunately the Institute was not profitable and the building was sold - according to Bosman (1980, p. 319) probably to the Cape Town Institute and Club, and eventually making way for the Club's new theatre in 1876.
Sources
F.C.L. Bosman, 1980. Drama en Toneel in Suid-Afrika, Deel II, 1856-1916. Pretoria: J.L. van Schaik: pp.
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