Who are the proud owners of Cape Town's Labia Theatre? Nestled at 68 Orange Street in charming Gardens,Cape Town, you'll find the Labia Theatre, proudly donned as the oldest independent art-repertory cinema in the nation. The Labia is steered by the capable hands of Ann and Ludi Kraus, along with the creative expertise of Michael Berkel and Rose Nhlapo. In the delightful October of 2023, we embarked on an adventure to relish the nostalgic vibes of this #oldschooltheatre, all in the spirit of celebrating the spookiest month of the year. The Labia Theatre is nothing short of a #lekkerexperience! Our choice for the evening? The infamous #SharkExorcist (2015) – a cinematic masterpiece that redefines "Satan sporting a jaw upgrade!," or so Google suggests with its modest rating of 1.3/10 on IMDb Now picture this: a demonic nun conjures up a fearsome shark, unleashing chaos upon the unsuspecting fishing town of Paris Landing. Yes, this shark has jaws to reckon with, and you might just need a bigger cross... Trust me; I haven't had such a good laugh during a lousy horror flick in over 40 years! The audience's commentary added an extra layer of hilarity to the experience! With its impressive 1.3 out of 10 rating on IMDb, Shark Exorcist (2015) solidifies its place as one of the worst movies I've had the "pleasure" of watching (and trust me, I've seen my fair share). That's not an exaggeration, folks. So, while I highly recommend a visit to the Labia Theatre, I must urge you to explore other gems in their repertoire – just not Shark Exorcist (2015), urgh... OK okay, if you must, I DARE YOU Our evening at this iconic, old-world theatre was nothing short of fabulous. You can feel the love that's gone into preserving this remarkable place. Much Love Always, Wanita @lekkerplaces @travel_south_africa_ #MustDoCapeTown #LekkerCinema #lekkerexperiences #labiatheatredatenight

Best movie spot by far. Picture this: You stroll into Labia, and instead of the usual popcorn aroma, you're greeted by the sweet scent of popcorn mixed with hops and barley. You approach the concessions, but instead of the usual candy, you're faced with a choice of beers or wine. Decisions, decisions! As you settle into your comfy seat, you realize that Labia's motto should be, 'Why sip soda when you can savor a stout?' The movie starts, and you're in awe of the crisp picture and surround sound. But you're not just watching; you're sipping and laughing, sipping and crying, sipping and... well, you get the idea. This place turns 'dinner and a movie' into 'drink and a movie.' They've officially elevated the cinematic experience to 'brewtiful' heights! So, if you're looking for the best movie spot by far, where you can buy a beer and drink it in the movies, Labia Movie Theatre is your hoppy place. Cheers to movie magic with a cold brew!"

A dainty old fashioned movie house with affordable prices. Alcohol is served with your usual slushy or they also have a selection of wines and drinks to choose from. This place is greatly priced with almost everything being under R100. Cinema a little musty (unnoticeable once air on is on) but sound quality, and visual quality great despite the old fashioned traditional cinema aesthetic. I think the viewing room also differs with seat quality as some rooms have not yet been revamped. The seats don't have the cup and popcorn holders, and are a bit worn down. Also no seat numbers so first come first serve. They offer the spicing popcorn stations (you can put in as much spice as you'd like) which is unlike those weird small sachets that you get at the modern cinemas.

What a magical theatre experience, ogg orange street in Cape Town. Such a beautiful setting, lights up at night, with a very dazzling showcase of theatre at it's best. They have quite a few cinemas showing various movies... maybe romance, horror, documentary for every movie watcher. Takes you away from the normal mall cinema vibe. Away from the norm and breathe taking to say the least... old school ticket box where you purchase your tickets, which are little tickets like back in the day... they serve hot and cold drinks, popcorn, snacks to keep your snacking at bay... Whatever you do, you need to try it out

Quaint little theatre not too far from the Company Gardens. They offer popcorn and food and they’ve got an alternative indie selection of movies. The velvet curtains were probably installed when my mother was a child, so if you live nostalgia then you will love this space. If you’re looking for modern and pristine then rather opt for Numetro Parking in the evening is always a struggle, I’d suggest you Uber to the venue. In the afternoon you can also access it with the MyCiti bus closest stop is Michaelis although this route is not as reliable, so you might have to wait quite a bit.

Don't get me wrong, l think this place is lovely. Great ambience, you can bring your cocktails in etc. But DONT GO THERE FOR A PREMIERE MOVIE. They don't know yet how to handle sold out shows. We had to wait over an hour to get popcorn. The movie line was also a nightmare and there are no pre allocated seats so you have to fight your way. And also the theatre was DIRTTY. I think they did not get to time to clean after the 1815 for the 2030. Honestly it was just bad bad...super let down from Tiktok reviews but at least Barbie was nice. I'm sure it's a must go just not when there is a popular movie

The visit to the Labia was wonderfully nostalgic after I visited there years ago when it was still an old beige color building with no vegetation in front and was a bit neglected. The decor is Fifties with brilliant rich jewel tones. Inside the theatre are soft crimson red velvet chairs and you feel as if you are temporarily transported back to this classic era when you walk in. Conveniently across the road is the excellent Italian restaurant Nonna Lina, where if you have booked in advance, you can round off your evening perfectly with delicious Italian faire!

The atmosphere is great. An experience not to be missed. Some tips: arrive early, use an uber or alternative mode of transport (there is no parking). Don't be an idiot, kindly take your trash with you, or at least throw it in the bins on your way out of the theatre. Some crowd control would be awesome, maybe have a limited amount of tickets per day so that it isn't too crowded. Other than that, the experience was awesome! And the staff were friendly. It's a bit confusing for a first time experience, but the staff quickly help you in the right direction.

Went to watch Barbie on screen one, firstly the screen itself hurt my eyes but I thought it was in my head until my friends mentioned it as well, I left feeling so nauseous because of the discomfort on top of the fact that the cinema was overbooked so people were literally sitting on the floor because there were no seats for them and the sound cut out in a scene , without replaying it the movie just continued without an apology. I really had high expectations but was disappointed. Maybe i want on a bad day but won't be returning anytime soon.

Wonderful independent cinema in Cape Town. One of the last. They play some well known and other lesser known art films and foreign films. They host student festivals and other art and community events. It's a beautiful old building. Relaxed. You can sit outside before or after, you can take your drinks into the theatre. The staff are amazing, some have been there for years. Really worth a visit. Been going there for 15 years and it's always an experience of old Cape Town. Thank you to The Labia for being you.

This place will bring your movie watching experience to life with its bubbly atmosphere and funky aesthetics. If you've only ever been to stale, lifeless theatres in malls, I highly recommend going and watching a film at the Labia, you'll spend half us much for a far better experience. Although I don't know the specifics of what projectors and speakers they're using, I can confidently say the quality of visuals and sound is adequate for your average movie goer.

Such a great place to go enjoy a movie every once in a while. Surrounded by lots of restaurants or places to go for a drink before/after your movie. I've been a couple of times and the place has a lovely old-school atmosphere and staff has always been friendly. Cinema chairs do get slightly uncomfortable during a long movie and could use some upgrading. But otherwise I cannot find fault and will most definitely go again.

The oldest operating cinema in South Africa...use to show cinema nevou movies but now showing mainstream movies...prices are reasonable R70 ...gets very busy as most theatres were full when we went...they have specials running with meals at various restaurants...so ideal to do that combo ...the cinemas are quite old & the seats are ok....sound & picture are ok...but not like newer cinemas...

We decided to try the meal and movie offer. Only problem - you cannot pre-book and although we were an hour early the film we wanted to see was sold out. We battled to decide on another movie - they were unknown. Only downer really. We went on a Tuesday - the swarma was super and so excellent value for money provided you can see the movie you'd like to see! Coffee & Hot chocolate was great.

Amazing old fashioned and retro decor. They use old vintage tickets stubs so be sure to hold on to it! You can take alcoholic beverages into the theatre. We watched Oppenheimer which has a confusing plot and dialogue. I was a little disappointed in the sound system as we could not hear some of the conversations in the movie. Overall still a cool experience. Would definitely recommend!

Good atmosphere, it's an old-timey theatre so the seats are a bit small, however the quality of the movie( a man called otto), as well as the screen resolution was very clear. The snacks counter design was relevant to the atmosphere they were going for, it's a nice experience, but if you want to watch a new upcoming movie, in 3D or 4D rather watch it at the usual cinemas.

What a theater this is! Ambiance, the movies, the vibe! It works for this place! The arthouse-ish movies they are providing are good and staff is helpfull. The price for a ticket is about R70 and that is (for me as a European) nothing! Go watch a movie here and enjoy the lovely vibe! I got it why they are in top10 most beautiful theaters in the world!

Movie theater with an old world charm. They have 4 seperate screens with a good mix of films ranging from new mainstream releases to artistic foreign films. Snacks and drinks can be bought there (includes an alcohol menu). Operates during loadshedding. Always a very memorable experience. Parking in the street with car guards.

Been to this theatre a few times and it still carries its charms. Small sized seating halls, 2 bars (got some lovely gluwine this time) and kitted out stands that are pricey, but quite fair given the low ticket costs. The selection of movies is half normal movies and the rest are more experimental and often great choices.

If you're looking for an old school "bioscope" experience from days gone by then this small and quaint cinema is just what you're looking for. They also have a small coffee shop/restaurant (offering meals on some days) that also sells cool drinks and some alcohol which you can take into the cinema. Popcorn also available.

What poor service I received when I tried to book through web tickets. I had paid 2 tickets but did not receive them over email. Claudia was so rude and unwilling to help me for Labia telling me its my fault for havibg booked through web ticket. No wonder it nearly shut down. So tired of the attitude from this place.

Good small sized theatre in the heart of downtown. Participates in the major film festivals and is a great location for viewing independent films and fresh talent. Viewing rooms are intimate bit comfortable, with good sound and screen quality. Popcorn, slushies (with or without booze) and other snacks for sale.

4th star for nostalgia, historical value and alcohol service. Projected didn’t seem up to snuff as our film was blurry at times and the seating is not comfortable if you are used to modern theaters. Great snack and beverage selection. Really nice waiting area with picnic seating. Recommend and would return.

A great movie watching experience, part of Cape Town's history, beautifully refurbished outside. Add a drink and a snack to your timeout, or use their restaurant combos, a great idea. Lots of parking just beyond the Mount Nelson Hotel from the Labia side. Suggestion: Get added to the Labia mailing list.

Honestly, this is my go to place almost every second week, brought friends made friends, and when they had that dinner deals I mostly chose to go to The Sanctuary Restaurant. Their prices and their experiences are amazing. It really is a must go to place in Cape town whenever I am that side for work

It was a great experience coming here to watch a movie but the coffee was not great and was very bitter tasted like filter coffee when it was a cappuccino… but the popcorn was also stale and not fresh even though we stood in a long long line. The seats are abit small but something to get used to.

Went to the Labia 20/10/2023, to watch Killers of the Flower Moon. We were there on time, but the queue for snacks was so long that we missed the first few minutes of the movie. When we got to the front of the queue, they were out of popcorn, as there is only one machine and assistant.

Quaint and quirky, showing blockbuster movies. Best Glühwein in town. Delicious quiche and yummiest crunchy spanakopita. Amazing service. The large original cinema screening rooms are wonderful. The smaller ones have very old and well-sat-in cinema chairs and could do with replacing.

A great theatre with a rich history. It shows important films. But it is not smartly managed - there is little care and attention to detail. Basic cleanliness is a serious issue, and I don't think this should be so bad, despite the theatre's lack of funds.

For a iconic theater that has stood the test of time it is hip and happening with vodka slushies a full bar and even a coffee section. The lines to the slushie bar was crazy long which creates a bit of confusion in the waiting area. When

I was so humiliated this evening when a staff member shouted at me for complaining that my popcorn is stale, shouting to say that it isn’t. it really ruined my movie experience :( I’m so heartbroken and wish I hadn’t gone out at all

Very cool retro movie cinema which is somewhat of an historical site. Very interesting alternative (not quite nuovo) movies are mostly shown here. A large variety of drinks and snacks are available at normal prices, which is great.

Really nice. Very friendly staff. The quality of the movie was good. Good old fashion movie theatre. Would definitely recommend this place. Not too expensive, and delicious food/snack to eat while drinking a nice glass of wine.

Really awesome and nostalgic way to see films in CPT, definitely an experience everyone should indulge in!! Classic snacks, cool movie theatres that really transport you to the era of great cinema and all-round friendly staff

Even though I love the nostalgia and old architecture of the Labia I do feel it needs some TLC. The bathrooms leave much to be desired. The theatre seats need a good clean and fixing. Could be a beautiful venue if restored…

Watched a couple movies here and I have to say the atmosphere is always lovely. The theatre is comfortable. Snacks are a bit pricey but lots of options and delicious. Cocktails and vodka slushies for the win! Super divine.

Quaint little movie theatre, feels like you stepped back into the 1940's. You can order your popcorn and sweets at an old fashion chocolate bar and the best thing in the menu is a Slushy with a dash of Vodka.

A wonderful retro cinema. Love that they offer only high quality movies there. The ones I've seen had minimum score 7 on IMDB. Perfectly located near Kloof street with all the buzz and restaurants it offers.

Nice little independent cinema. Saw 'Yesterday' here, when it first came out. Also attended 'Cartoon Network to the Rescue', Season Two Premiere. Nice, classic interiors, really feels like a proper cinema.

Unique setting for this historical theatre bequathed by Princess Labia. They screen art films such as Jonathan Livingston Seagull. Old world charm at the foot of Table Mountain. Eclectic, romantic.

What a cool experience!! Friendly staff,, well mostly "sorry ticket lady" hehe but you are forgiven as the night was flawless, with a beer right in the cinema who can not give you 5 …

Not the best looking cinema for my liking , . It doesn’t smell nice , it’s not clean and the seats dont function well .its cheaper than most cinema I give it that but it didn’t hit my mark.

The perfect spot to enjoy a cultural experience. The movie Wonka was a exciting experience. So to satisfy the artist in you then the Labia Theatre is the perfect must go destination.

We were visiting Cape Town and wanted to watch a film. This cinema has great historic features that are still visible! The movie selection was great and the snack variety was good.

Amazing place and such a good vibe. However, they need to do something about the smell of the theatre rooms, I understand it is a old theatre but a little TLC will go a long way.

Great experience to have in Cape Town. The best films show year round and prices way more affordable than main stream cinemas. Lines can be long, make sure you get here in time.

Beautiful, nostalgic and unique experience. Super friendly staff and lovely food/snacks which is also uniquely only available at the Labia. Would recommend to everyone ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The vibe is nice, they can work on a snacks system, because you wait looong to be served. Surround sound also needs some work, and more comfortable seating would be nice.

Reminds me of my childhood days, when all movie houses looked like this. It was a wonderful nostalgic experience to watch a flick here. Will definitely come back again.

Atmospheric, high quality, and above all, VALUABLE! This is a must-see for all people in and around Cape Town who enjoy the cinema. Doesn't cost a liver either. …

Was able to attend a private function. Was a great vibe, the seats inside the theatre feel a little dated and are quite narrow, other than that was a great experience!

Very charming independent theater.They have great concessions at reasonable prices, and you get to choose your seats. They also have a much better lineup of movies.

A walk back in time to when you purchased your movie tickets from a lady in a little booth. All that was missing is a old school roadhouse afterwards for milkshakes.

Great going out experience, cool outdoor bar, hot drinks, you can take wine into the cinema. Old school film watching experience in a fine old art deco building

Dirty cinema Plastic bucket on table used as a bin Rude and disinterested staff A pity. The only independent theatre in Cape Town & it’s going down the drain.

A great experience! It feels like you travel back in time for only R50.00! The only small drawback is that there is no place to put your beverages.

It was an out of this world experience I enjoyed myself . There are also restaurants not far from the theater. Incase you get hungry …

Beautiful little theatre. What a lovely unique experience. Old-style movie theatres with friendly staff. A definite yes for a romantic outing.

If you want to feel like you've traveled back in time, you should definitely give this place a visit. The snacks on offer were also delicious.

An absolutely special place to visit in Cape Town, particularly if you are looking for something different, intimate with a touch of romance!

Still such a beautiful venue. Saw my first opera on the big screen. Amazing experience indeed. Plus we could take our wine into the theatre.

I loved the atmosphere and vibe of this theatre. The old look is very cool, and so are the cinema rooms themselves. Such a cool experience!!

Great experience for alternate movies, has a homely feel. Like watching a movie with your friends at a sleep over. Definitely a must do

Being a film freak, I was in my element! Will try go weekly if I can! Love the old school feel and more private viewing :)

A Labia night out has never disappointed! Authentic, fun and you can get gin or vodka slushies and freshly popped corn!

Love that this iconic venue is still alive❤ Please support. AMAZING movies which make a difference in your life!. …

Very cute and good prices also. They serve alcohol and proper food compared to mainstream franchise movie theaters.

The stuff is very friendly and helpful. I went to watch Sound of Freedom. I will definitely go back there again.

Lovely vintage experience at the old cinema. Quite a unique atmosphere with all the young movie aficionado

My favorite place in Cape Town. What a stunning venue, love the drink options and very reasonably priced.

It is an amazing place to go watch movies. It is super cheap and easy access and friendly staff.

1st time at the Theatre and it was amazing. Watched my son in his 1st movie premiere Awesome

Very affordable and unique experience, I enjoyed going every time I got the opportunity to.

My first time. I was invited for the screening of a documentary in the making on De Lille.

This is a fantastic old theatre and it's always amazing to visit one of it's cinemas

Loved everything, would love it even more if the cocktail prices were lower

Area has vibrant. Theater shows good European movies

Fantastic space, great vibe, lovely staff …

Vintage theatre experience, loved it . …

Great retro vibe and loved the gin slush ♥️