With so many visitors here from other provinces as well as other countries, I couldn’t miss the opportunity to mention one of the Western Cape’s most beloved hidden gems – Evita’s se Peronn in Darling. Just 60km from Cape Town you would be doing yourself a great disservice if you didn’t make at least one trip up to this quaint little town and one of its most famous landmarks – the Darling Station, which is where you will find Evita’s se Peronn (peronn being the Afrikaans word for station platform) and of course Evita (or more commonly known as Evita Bezuidenhout, South Africa’s most famous white woman).
Essentially a theatre, Evita’s se Peronn also sports a restaurant and bar, arts and crafts activities, Darling Trust Craft Centre and Boerassic Park which is a garden of sorts which will have you giggling behind your hand and recognising some faces from the colourful South African political history.
The theatre is open from Tuesdays to Sundays with the main focus being on the weekend shows. These shows star Evita aka Pieter Dirk Uys who has been dazzling audiences with his quick wit and hilarious views/impersonations of South African politics since 1969. Although mostly funny, Pieter Dirk Uys’ shows have a very clear message – poking fun at serious issues not only raises awareness but also helps us see the lighter side of things which keeps us laughing even in the harsh times our country has been through.
Performances are at 14:00 every day and on Saturdays there is another one at 19:00. I would suggest taking a drive up to Darling and after poking around this quaint little town, heading to Evita’s se Peronn for some lunch (they are said to make the best curry in the Swatrland) and watching a show. You can see the program here, you need to book in advance so make sure you do so by calling Beryl at (022) 492 3930.
Candice focuses on travel, surfing, running, dark chocolate and uncovering gems hidden in the Cape outdoors.
Steve Bolnick is recognized as one of southern Africa’s outstanding safari guides. He grew-up with a deep love for the African bush and has spent the past 29 years living and guiding in southern Africa.
Lisa Griggs writes about the hidden vineyards and the undiscovered cultivars in the Western Cape.
Nicky Coenen looks for the secret hideaways and hidden gems in Cape Town and surrounds.
Steve Robertson tracks the off the beaten track action happening around Cape Town.
Fred Roed looks for the undiscovered coffee spots in the Western Cape and rates them.
Peter has worked in the wine and spirits industry for over 40 years and is an appreciator of fine things.