Pretoria is the place to be if you want to enjoy live music at its best. Whether you prefer laid-back organic-inspired music played with unique instruments, jazz bands or a themed music evening, there are a variety of live music venues playing from Monday to Sunday.
Totally relaxed vibe
Inspired by bohemian ideals and reggae rhythms, Tings an’ Times at Waterglen Centre is an iconic live music destination featuring acts focused on original music. Catering for both young and old free-thinking individuals, this restaurant was founded 20 years ago and was situated in Hatfield for 16 years before moving to its current location in 2011. Tings an’ Times has hosted acts such as Chiba, Kabaal Klankbaan, Tidal Waves, the Parlotones and Die Antwoord. Taste the General Inconvenience cocktail, created with tequila vodka, Cointreau, blue curacao, lemon juice, orange juice and grenadine. This colourful, chilled and relaxed atmosphere, which prides itself on being a “100% attitude-free zone” was originally created for live music and has artists playing twice a month.
Themed dinner theatre
Situated at Stone Cradle off the R21, the SpeakEasy Lounge, launched in March, provides top-class musical theatre and dining. This vibrant lounge is popular for its themed evenings such as SpeakEasy goes Irish, where artists Andries Botha and Eben Bleeker play the best of U2 and Cranberries and a three-course Irish meal is served. Other popular themed evenings include Rugby World Cup, SpeakEasy goes Italian and the Classic Rock Accoustic Show featuring melodies by Bob Seger, Eric Clapton, Bruce Springsteen and Sting. From jazz to rock and blues, this theatre restaurant offers unforgettable entertainment with shows from Wednesday to Sunday and is the perfect option for a corporate function or fun night out with friends.
Local is lekker
Located off Lynnwood Road in Equestria, Arcade Empire offers a great live music party night for the younger crowd. With live music available from Wednesday to Saturday in a variety of genres, this venue has featured bands such as Van Coke Kartel, The Curfew and Whiskey Thief. Enjoy a jam jar or a brandy and cola while listening to a band on one of the four stages. The crew at this restaurant also has The Grind Radio station and a tattoo parlour on site, throws foam parties, braai days and game nights and workshops and develops music videos. Breaking into so many markets, the owners of this restaurant seem to be at the forefront of South African music.
Experience it for yourself:
012 993 0233
072 020 6120
Words: Lisa Dewberry
Images: Supplied
