Too much talent, not enough theatres: that's usually the way of it in South Africa. That's why it's always good news hearing that a new theatre is opening.
South African-born producer Eric Abraham has announced that he will be building a new theatre in Cape Town that will serve as a home for the Isango Portobello Company.
The company, under the direction of Mark Dornford May, has won international renown for its stage productions of The Magic Flute, A Christmas Carol, The Mysteries and films such as Son of Man and U-Carmen eKhayelitsha. Head of the National Planning Commission Trevor Manuel has announced that he will be a patron of the company.
Renovations commenced this week on the Sacks Futeran Building in District 6. The theatre, named The Fugard, is slated to open January 2010. Athol Fugard has written a new play especially for the opening which he will direct for the opening season of the theatre.
Mannie Manim, currently serving his last few months as CEO of the Baxter Theatre, will join the Isango Portobello team in developing The Fugard. Whereas most people view retirement as an opportunity to tend to their neglected gardens, Manim is already gearing up for the next phase in his career.
"Retirement is a strange word to consider when it's staring you straight in the face," says Manim. "I never gave it much thought or planning and I'm probably a terrible example for young people.
"It took me a long time to get used to the idea and just when I am coming around, this project came around."
A search has been under way for a suitable site for over six months. Isango Portobello is currently based in a church hall in Athlone.
"It's a nice space but it doesn't belong to them," says Manim.
"I got a call saying that they found the perfect spot. I went to take a look and am very excited at the prospects. To be involved with building a new theatre is very exciting.
"It's what really gets me going. Especially considering that it bears the name of one of the greatest living playwrights, our very own Athol Fugard."
With plans being so newly hatched, Manim is not sure what his role will encompass. He said his title was executive director and he thinks his role will be to expand the company's national and international profile. He's not sure about the rest but he's certain "there'll be no shortage of work".
It doesn't look like Manim knows how to retire properly. He promises that he will eventually write the book that many have asked of him. However, he refuses to spend precious time pottering around the garden.