Newly implemented upgrades at Ster-Kinekor Tyger Valley for the convenience of movie lovers
Mallupgrades at Ster-Kinekor Tyger Valley offer movie-goers three distinctive cinema formats, Africa’s first Free-Roam VR Arena housed within a cinema complex, plus a delicious cup of coffee
By CityLife Arts Writer
A major revamp at Ster-Kinekor’s Tyger Valley cinema complex in the Western Cape has resulted in the cinemas undergoing a full-on makeover, and the launch of SKX-PERIENCE, Africa’s first Free-Roam Virtual Reality (VR) Arena housed within a cinema complex. The newly upgraded site opens officially to moviegoers on Friday 09 October, with bookings now live for the great line-up of blockbuster titles and entertainment offerings.
Catering equally to luxury seekers, families, hardcore film enthusiasts and gamers, the complex features four major technological and experiential offerings designed to redefine this regional entertainment hub. In addition, a stand-alone Costa Coffee kiosk is opening in the cinema foyer, inviting customers to enjoy great coffee.
Now completed, and opening this weekend, movie lovers are invited to enjoy all these new experiences under one roof… one of them being a first for audiences who love the immersive big screen offering.
One complex, four new entertainment experiences
Launching the APEX Cinema, Ster-Kinekor is introducing its own new premium large-format (PLF) cinema experience, designed to deliver a more immersive way to enjoy a film. Making its debut at the reopened Tyger Valley complex, the auditorium features a large wraparound screen that extends close to the walls and ceiling, creating a viewing environment that draws audiences deeper into every story.
For those looking for a more intimate and luxurious movie night out, two of the cinemas have reopened as Cine Prestige theatres the ultimate luxury ’business class’ version of the cinema experience, served by their own lounge. A third cinema has been transformed into the cinema chain’s iconic bright and colourful Kids’ Cinema, offering all the fun along with the best films on the big screen for younger audiences.
The SKX-PERIENCE Free-Roam VR Arena promises hours of escapism for up to six players, the likes of which have not been experienced anywhere in the country before.
In addition, a stand-alone Costa Coffee kiosk is opening in the cinema foyer serving up a range of delicious coffees to satisfy the caffeine craving.
Says Lynne Wylie, chief marketing officer of Ster-Kinekor Theatres: “This four-part entertainment offering adds to the overall Tyger Valley experience with the APEX cinema, luxurious Cine Prestige theatres, our popular Kids’ Cinema format and the new SKX-PERIENCE Free-Roam VR Arena, giving audiences even more ways to enjoy one destination.”
The APEX Screen
“APEX has been designed for movie lovers looking for more from their cinema experience by combining premium technology, larger-scale presentation and immersive sound to make every movie moment feel bigger, bolder and that much more engaging,” says Wylie.
The APEX experience is powered by 4K laser projection, delivering brighter images, exceptional clarity, and richer detail on the screen. Complementing the visuals is an advanced 16.1-channel sound system, enhanced by multiple subwoofers positioned around the auditorium and behind the screen, resulting in powerful, immersive audio that audiences both hear and feel.
Step into SKX-PERIENCE Free-Roam VR
Ster-Kinekor Theatres is proud to announce a groundbreaking milestone in out-of-home entertainment with the official launch of Africa’s first-ever Free-Roam VR Arena housed within a cinema complex, debuting at Ster-Kinekor Tyger Valley.
Pushing the boundaries of imagination, the new six-player dedicated arena merges physical freedom with hyper-realistic digital worlds. Kitted with state-of-the-art headsets, precision haptic controllers and advanced spatial tracking, players can physically walk, dodge and interact in real time across a seamless multi-sensory playground.
The arena features an expansive, curated game library ranging from high-octane tactical shooters such as The Finals and sci-fi combat adventures to breathtaking underwater expeditions in Ocean Depths and life-size prehistoric explorations in Dinosaur Park.
Designed to cater to everyone (12 years and older) from casual gamers and families to corporates seeking innovative team-building solutions, the Tyger Valley VR Arena operates under rigorous international safety standards, backed by certified operators and a seamless customer journey.
The Business Class of cinemas
The exclusive Cine Prestige format epitomises a luxury cinema experience. The two new auditoriums are fitted with a combination of single and double red leather recliner chairs that ooze lavish comfort and opulence. Customers can enjoy delicious drinks and snacks in the adjoining lounge or served to them at their seat in the cinema.
“We look forward to welcoming movie-lovers to our Cine Prestige cinema for a luxurious big screen movie experience. When the doors open, guests can savour the premium cinema, turning great moments into something even greater,” says Wylie.
Kids just gotta have fun
In another exciting development and following the success of its popular Kids’ Cinema concept at several other sites, Ster-Kinekor is adding this funky and colourful movie experience at Tyger Valley.
“This offering gives younger audiences their very own special ‘me time’ at the movies – not to mention a chance for parents to sit back and relax while their children are being kept busy and entertained,” says Wylie. “The Kids’ Cinema provides the perfect environment for them to spend a few hours, enjoying the entertainment on the big screen or the fun-filled, playground-like facilities inside the cinema.”
What makes it different is that it’s designed specifically to cater to the needs of youngsters – it has its own foyer area with activity tables and catering counter, and brightly coloured beanbag seats (with bigger seats for the ‘big’ children at the back of the cinema!).
If it’s your birthday, why not invite your friends to a party with a difference at the Kids’ Cinema. Ster-Kinekor offers the perfect venue to host your party with special ticket prices, and you get to watch a cool movie with your besties.
Satisfy the caffeine craving
Following the success of its locations at Ster-Kinekor V&A Waterfront and Blue Route, Costa Coffee is opening another stand-alone coffee kiosk at Tyger Valley, enhancing the existing catering offering. The extensive menu of delicious caffeine drinks is on offer to enjoy before, during or after the movie.
While Costa Coffee is located within the cinema complex, it is also open to the public. Its convenient location within the centre is ideally suited for shoppers looking to grab a great cup of coffee on the go.
Says Tanya Heimann, general manager of Tyger Valley Shopping Centre: “We are incredibly excited to welcome the newly transformed Ster-Kinekor complex to Tyger Valley Centre. This is far more than a cinema refurbishment; it introduces an entirely new entertainment experience for our customers and strengthens our position as a destination where there is always something more to experience.
“The combination of APEX, Cine Prestige, Kids’ Cinema, SKX-PERIENCE and Costa Coffee brings together entertainment experiences that appeal to different generations, interests and occasions, all under one roof. From a family movie afternoon and a special date night to an immersive blockbuster experience or an exciting VR adventure, there is now even more reason to visit Tyger Valley Centre.
“We are particularly proud to be launching this exciting new chapter during our ‘Gift to You’ campaign. The re-opening of Ster-Kinekor gives us the opportunity to create memorable experiences for our customers and to celebrate the continued evolution of Tyger Valley Centre as a place to shop, connect, experience and create great moments together.
“We look forward to welcoming our customers from 09 October and seeing them discover everything the new Ster-Kinekor experience has to offer,” says Heimann.
New screens, new blockbusters
Some of the great blockbuster titles launching across the new cinema formats include Digger starring Tom Cruise on the APEX screen. Make date night even more special with Tony and Verityin Cine Prestige. Younger audiences will be transported to the wonderful, animated worlds of Shaun The Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottomand Forgotten Island, while gamers can explore the curated range of immersive adventures available in the SKX-PERIENCE Free-Roam VR Arena.
“As Ster-Kinekor, we are constantly looking to enhance the entertainment experience for our audiences. Our investment in Tyger Valley is about more than just showing movies; it is about creating tailored, unforgettable spaces for every type of guest. Whether you want an opulent date night, a stress-free family afternoon out, a powerful big screen blockbuster experience or a free-roam virtual reality adventure, this upgraded complex now delivers it all under one roof,” concludes Wylie.
Loyalty pays… and saves
The upgraded Tyger Valley complex officially opens to the public on 09 October 2026, kicking off an action-packed launch weekend of great movies and epic entertainment experiences. SK Club and loyalty card discounts can also be redeemed to enjoy special offers: The Epic Deal for SK Club members (free sign-up gets you a movie ticket, drink and popcorn for just R169,90 from Monday to Friday; half-price movie tickets on Tuesdays for all screenings in all the cinemas; discounted ticket price for pensioners; up to 50% ticket discount for Discovery Vitality members; or the option to redeem Pick n Pay Smart Shopper points for a movie ticket.
Younger cinemagoers who are also Discovery Vitality members can make the most of the loyalty programme’s great offer of free movies until 19:00 for under-18s.
Visit the Ster-Kinekor website at www.sterkinekor.com or download the SK App for information on films, screening.
Arts Ability Festival 2026: Beyond Labels, a New Generation of artists Is redefining the language of dance
International artists from South Africa, Namibia and Uganda come together in Cape Town for a three-day celebration of inclusive artistic excellence.
By CityLife Arts Writer
The countdown to ArtsAbility Festival 2026 officially begins with its launch event on 30 September 2026 at 18:30 at Youngblood Art Gallery in Cape Town, offering a first glimpse into the artists, vision and creative conversations that will shape the festival.
What happens when artists challenge not only the boundaries of dance, but the very way society defines ability? This November, the ArtsAbility Festival 2026 invites audiences to experience an exciting convergence of movement, creativity and artistic expression that places talent, innovation and excellence centre stage.
Presented by Unmute Dance Theatre, the three-day inclusive arts festival takes place from 26 – 28 November 2026 at Youngblood Africa Art Gallery and selected venues across Cape Town, bringing together local and international artists with and without disabilities in a dynamic programme of dance, visual arts, performance and creative exchange.
Under the banner Celebrating Creative Excellence Beyond Labels 2026 Festival Focus; Celebrating the voices, talent and creative contributions of women artists.
ArtsAbility is more than an arts festival. It is a professional platform challenging conventional perceptions of disability in the creative industries, while demonstrating the value of diversity in shaping contemporary artistic practice and the creative economy.
At a time when artists with disabilities continue to face barriers to visibility, professional opportunities and participation, ArtsAbility shifts the narrative from limitation to possibility, recognising artists not through the lens of disability, but through their craft, originality and contribution to the arts.
The festival brings together an exciting mix of established and emerging talent, including international artists from across the African continent.
Among them is Ethan Philander, a Namibian contemporary dancer and 2025 Best Newcomer award recipient, alongside fellow Namibian dancer Olivia Hendjala, whose emerging artistic journey is already making its mark. Ugandan multidisciplinary performer and choreographer Joseph Tebandeke brings a distinctive practice that challenges conventional ideas of ability through movement and visual art.
South African talent includes Jabu Siphika, acclaimed dancer and choreographer from Durban’s FLATFOOT Dance Company; Cape Town-based choreographer and performer Jamie Lee Jansen; professional dancer Mthokozisi Mkhwanazi (Durban), whose career spans leading South African dance companies; and emerging performer Thimna Ndwe. Unmute trainee, Jesse Jacobs brings contemporary, modern, hip hop, ballet, and jazz flavour to the festival and Johannesburg-based choreographer and ballroom and Latin dance specialist Roseline Wilkens adds further artistic depth.
The visual arts offering features Andile Bhala, whose powerful documentary photography explores identity and contemporary African life, and Tony Luza, a multidisciplinary artist working across painting, graphic design and music.
Robyn Pretorius together with these artists will offer audiences a glimpse into the rich diversity of creative voices, perspectives and movement practices that will shape this year’s festival.
For Unmute Dance Theatre, ArtsAbility is about fundamentally shifting how inclusive arts are understood and experienced.
Nadine McKenzie, Co-Founder and Artistic Director of Unmute Dance Theatre, says:
“Founded in 2014 by Unmute, the ArtsAbility Festival was born from our own experiences as artists navigating spaces where accessibility and inclusion were often an afterthought. Our vision has always been to create a platform where artists with and without disabilities can create, lead and be recognised for their artistry.
“This year, we place women at the centre of the conversation, creating space for women to speak, create, lead, challenge and shape the narrative. As women of colour working in the arts, we understand the importance of visibility and representation, particularly in spaces where decisions are made.
“ArtsAbility is about more than celebrating artistic excellence. It is about challenging barriers, shifting perceptions and creating meaningful opportunities forinclusion. We invite audiences to join us in experiencing the power of art to inspire change.”