Eyethu Cinema was a historic movie theater in Soweto, Johannesburg, South Africa. It opened in 1972 during the apartheid era and became a cultural hub for the Black community. Eyethu Cinema served as a space where people could come together to watch movies, experience live performances, and engage in community activities. It was one of the few places where Black South Africans could enjoy popular films, as access to mainstream cinemas was limited due to segregation policies.
The cinema played an important role in the local cultural scene, offering both Hollywood movies and local films, creating a shared cultural experience among the community. It was known for its lively atmosphere, with audiences cheering, laughing, and interacting during screenings.
After years of operation, Eyethu Cinema eventually closed in the 1990s due to the changing economic and social landscape in post-apartheid South Africa, as well as the rise of home entertainment options. Despite its closure, Eyethu Cinema remains an iconic symbol of Soweto’s rich cultural heritage and its history of resilience and creativity. It represents a time when cinema brought people together and offered a sense of escape and community connection.
Eyethu Cinema, a once-thriving cultural hub in Mofolo, Soweto, holds a significant place in the history of South Africa. Established in 1969, this cinema was more than just a venue for watching films; it was a gathering space for the people of Soweto, a symbol of pride, and a refuge during the oppressive era of apartheid. Its story reflects the broader socio-political challenges and cultural evolution of South Africa, from its initial establishment to its decline, and ongoing efforts to preserve its legacy.
The origins of Eyethu Cinema date back to 1969, a time when racial segregation dictated all aspects of life in South Africa. Founded by Nape Motana, a businessman and film enthusiast, the cinema provided an essential service to the Black community in Soweto. During apartheid, Black South Africans were largely restricted from accessing theaters and entertainment venues in Johannesburg and other "whites-only" areas. Eyethu Cinema emerged as a response to this exclusion, offering a space where the people of Soweto could enjoy films and celebrate the art of storytelling. It quickly became a beloved venue, showcasing a mix of local productions, international films, and even hosting musical performances. The cinema allowed people to experience stories that resonated with their lives and struggles, fostering a sense of belonging and connection.
Beyond its role as a movie theater, Eyethu Cinema played a pivotal role in the social and cultural life of Soweto. It was more than just a place to watch films; it served as a vibrant gathering point for the community. It became a space where residents could engage with each other, find solace in art, and express themselves freely, even amid the harsh realities of apartheid. The cinema offered a sense of normalcy and escape, where, for a few hours, patrons could immerse themselves in stories and be transported beyond the restrictions of the segregated world they lived in. Eyethu became a symbol of pride and cultural resilience, embodying the spirit of Soweto and the power of community during a time of political repression.
However, the success of Eyethu Cinema was not to last. By the 1980s and 1990s, the landscape of entertainment in South Africa had shifted dramatically. The advent of television and VHS tapes brought about a decline in cinema attendance across the country. Eyethu Cinema, once a thriving center of cultural life, saw its audience numbers drop as more people began to watch movies at home. The socio-political changes that came with the end of apartheid further shifted the dynamics of South African society, and as people gained more freedom of movement, they sought new experiences outside of Soweto. By the mid-1990s, Eyethu Cinema had closed its doors, ending an era that had been central to the cultural life of the community.
Despite its closure, Eyethu Cinema’s legacy remains significant. After the end of apartheid, there were various efforts to revive the cinema, as many recognized its historical and cultural importance. While these attempts did not bring the cinema back to its former glory, they highlighted the deep affection and sense of heritage that the community had for the space. Eyethu’s legacy as a symbol of resistance, art, and community continued to resonate, and discussions emerged around preserving it as a heritage site. Some redevelopment plans aimed to transform the cinema into a modern venue or a museum, seeking to retain the essence of its original role while adapting to new cultural needs.
Today, Eyethu Cinema stands as an enduring reminder of a time when it provided a much-needed escape for many during the darker days of South Africa’s history. It is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the people of Soweto, and its story encapsulates the intersection of art, community, and resistance against oppression. As efforts to preserve and redevelop the cinema continue, Eyethu’s legacy lives on, serving as a bridge between the past and the present. It reminds us of the power of culture and community in shaping the narrative of a nation, and the vital role that spaces like Eyethu Cinema play in fostering a sense of identity and unity.
In conclusion, Eyethu Cinema is more than just a piece of South Africa's cinematic history; it is a cultural icon that symbolizes the resilience and spirit of the Soweto community. Its journey from a thriving social space during apartheid to a symbol of heritage today reflects the broader history of South Africa’s struggles and triumphs. The story of Eyethu Cinema is a reminder of the power of community spaces, the importance of preserving cultural heritage, and the enduring impact of art in times of both adversity and change. As we look to the future, Eyethu’s story serves as a beacon of how cultural landmarks can continue to inspire and unite people, even long after their doors have closed.
A culmination of research gathered over many years, the Online Johannesburg Heritage Register is being launched on Nelson Mandela Day 18 July 2025.
Among the many heritage sites featured is Chancellor House, the downtown offices of Mandela and Tambo Attorneys in the 1950s. After having been vacant and shuttered for more than a decade, this iconic building is being revived and brought to life once again as offices for the Community Development Department, which oversees the City’s Arts, Culture & Heritage Services.
