Labia Theatre Cape Town
Cape Town's historic 1949 arthouse cinema, offering a charming, nostalgic movie experience with diverse film selections and affordable specials.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Labia Theatre Cape Town
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cape Town's historic 1949 arthouse cinema, offering a charming, nostalgic movie experience with diverse film selections and affordable specials.
"A slice of nostalgic pie and a piece of theatre heaven!"
🎟️ Book tickets in advance
Popular films and specials sell out fast! Secure your spot to avoid missing out.
🍿 Try the flavored popcorn
Don't miss the variety of delicious popcorn seasonings available.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vintage Cinema Charm
Step back in time in this historic 1949 arthouse cinema with cozy seating and a unique atmosphere.
Diverse Film Selection
Catch a mix of classic, mainstream, and independent films not always found in larger chains.

Affordable Date Nights
Enjoy special dinner and movie deals perfect for a budget-friendly and romantic evening out.
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Popular Showings
Embrace the Nostalgic Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book tickets in advance
Popular films and specials sell out fast! Secure your spot to avoid missing out.
🍿 Try the flavored popcorn
Don't miss the variety of delicious popcorn seasonings available.
Labia isn’t what most people think it is
Yelling Fire @ Labia Theatre
💰 Look for specials
Check for affordable dinner and movie deals, perfect for date nights.
🕰️ Arrive early
The theatre can get packed quickly, especially for popular showings.
What to do with 10 hours in Cape Town?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book tickets in advance
Popular films and specials sell out fast! Secure your spot to avoid missing out.
🍿 Try the flavored popcorn
Don't miss the variety of delicious popcorn seasonings available.
💰 Look for specials
Check for affordable dinner and movie deals, perfect for date nights.
🕰️ Arrive early
The theatre can get packed quickly, especially for popular showings.
🎧 Be aware of sound
Some modern action films might have piercing audio; consider this for intense movies.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Labia Theatre is cherished for its unique, nostalgic atmosphere and affordable prices, offering a charming escape from modern multiplexes. While the film selection has broadened to include mainstream hits, its historic charm and special offers make it a beloved spot for dates and budget-conscious moviegoers. Some visitors note that the sound quality for intense films could be improved.
"We had fun... The theatre got packed pretty quickly so it's safer to keep time.
Loved the popcorn, sound quality etc... definitely worth it."
Brenda Kinya
"Really nice atmosphere.
Decor is great.
Snacks are easy to acquire.
Feels like I went back in time to the 1980's."
Quatumiser 101
"One of the coolest movie experiences I’ve had before. From the dining options to the nostalgic feeling of being here. Highly recommend watching a movie here and buying snacks. Love how they have different popcorn seasonings for their popcorn, and everything was priced great."
Waleed Maoed
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Labia Theatre is located at 68 Orange Street, Gardens, Cape Town. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transport options like MyCiTi buses also serve the area. Many visitors find it a convenient stop when exploring the city center.
While there isn't dedicated parking directly at the theatre, street parking is often available on Orange Street and surrounding roads. It's advisable to arrive a little early to find a spot, especially during peak hours.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk from the V&A Waterfront to the Labia Theatre, taking approximately 20-30 minutes depending on your pace. It's a good way to see more of the city.
For a 10-hour visit, consider using ride-sharing services like Uber or Bolt for flexibility. You could also explore hop-on-hop-off bus tours that stop near the theatre. Walking is also a great option if you're staying centrally.
The Labia Theatre has made efforts to be accessible, but being an older building, some areas might present challenges. It's best to contact them directly to inquire about specific accessibility needs for their screening rooms.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are generally very affordable, with standard tickets often around R90. They also offer special 'Dinner for 2' packages for around R200, making it a great value for a date night.
Yes, you can typically purchase tickets online through their website or ticketing partners. This is highly recommended, especially for popular movies or during busy periods, to secure your preferred seats.
The Labia Theatre usually opens in the afternoon and screens movies into the evening. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date showtimes and operating hours for the specific day you plan to visit.
While historically an arthouse cinema, the Labia now shows a mix of mainstream new releases alongside classic and independent films to ensure financial viability.
The Labia Theatre is known for its affordable general ticket prices. While specific discounts might vary, the overall cost is already very budget-friendly, making it accessible for most patrons.
🎫 🎬 Onsite Experience
The Labia offers a unique, nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of old-school cinemas. Visitors often describe it as charming, cozy, and a step back in time, with vintage decor and a relaxed vibe.
The Labia screens a diverse range of films, including mainstream blockbusters, classic movies, independent cinema, and often hosts special film festivals.
Yes, they offer a selection of snacks, including popcorn with various seasonings, as well as drinks. The prices are generally considered affordable and good value.
The seating is generally described as comfortable and cozy, especially in the smaller screening rooms. Some reviewers have noted it feels like a more intimate movie-going experience compared to larger multiplexes.
Absolutely! The Labia is a popular spot for dates, especially with its affordable specials and charming, intimate atmosphere. It offers a more unique and memorable experience than a typical cinema.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography inside the screening rooms during a film is generally not permitted. However, you're usually welcome to take photos of the unique interior, decor, and exterior to capture the nostalgic ambiance.
The vintage lobby, the exterior facade with its iconic signage, and the cozy seating areas offer great photo opportunities. Capturing the overall retro feel is key.
Standard cinema rules apply regarding filming during screenings. For any professional or commercial photography/filming, it's always best to contact the theatre management in advance to seek permission.
A camera that handles low light well, like a mirrorless or DSLR with a fast lens, is ideal for interior shots. Even a good smartphone camera can capture the charm, especially with good lighting.
While you can share photos of the theatre itself, sharing copyrighted movie content without permission is not advisable. Focus on capturing the experience and the venue's unique character.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider checking the movie schedule for age-appropriate films. The snack bar offers popcorn and drinks, which are always a hit with kids. It's a great way to introduce children to the magic of cinema in a more intimate and historic setting, offering a break from the usual entertainment options.
💑 Couples & Date Nights
Beyond the specials, the overall atmosphere is conducive to connection. It’s a chance to share a unique experience, discuss the film afterward, and enjoy the nostalgic ambiance. Many couples consider it a regular outing, appreciating the escape from the ordinary and the chance to create lasting memories.
💰 Budget Travelers
Don't miss out on their special deals, like the dinner and movie packages, which provide an even more economical way to enjoy an evening out. It's a chance to experience a piece of Cape Town's culture and enjoy entertainment without overspending, making it a top recommendation for budget travelers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Evolution of the Labia Theatre
However, like many independent cinemas worldwide, the Labia has faced significant challenges over the years, particularly with the rise of multiplexes and changing audience habits. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic was severe, pushing the theatre to the brink of closure. To survive, the Labia had to adapt its programming strategy, incorporating more mainstream new releases alongside its traditional offerings to attract a broader audience and ensure financial sustainability.
Despite these shifts, the Labia Theatre remains a beloved institution. Community support, including fundraisers and a renewed appreciation for its historic charm, has been crucial. Visitors today can still experience its nostalgic ambiance, enjoy affordable ticket prices, and find a selection of films that cater to diverse tastes, making it a unique and enduring part of Cape Town's entertainment scene.
Navigating the Labia Experience: Tips from Visitors
When it comes to concessions, the Labia offers a range of snacks, with their flavored popcorn being a particular favorite among patrons. The prices are generally considered very reasonable, contributing to the overall value proposition. However, some visitors have noted that the audio experience in certain screening rooms can be overly sharp or lacking in bass, which might detract from modern action films. It's a point to consider if you're sensitive to sound quality during intense movie scenes.
For those looking for a budget-friendly outing, the Labia's special offers, such as dinner and movie packages, are highly recommended and frequently mentioned as excellent value for money, particularly for couples. Arriving a bit early is also a common tip, as popular showings can fill up quickly, ensuring you get a good seat and soak in the atmosphere before the film begins.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit