This event will be a first at the Hull Street Theatre to encourage more residents to join events and to see the renovation progress.

“We believe people will heal and renew their belief in the powers of nature and, we have to find renewed purposes for trees in our lives to preserve the natural purpose,” said Hull Street business managing director, Mogale Sedibe.

The upgrading of the building has only just begun while it awaits the final bill of quantities from the architects. It’s a document used in tendering in the construction industry in which materials, parts, and labour (and their costs) are itemised.

Sedibe said they wanted to renovate the theatre to have an alternative, intimate venue in the 150-year-old city with only one theatre. “This becomes the second theatre in the province but also a provincial monument. However, we mainly restore to preserve the heritage and the history of the diamond city that sparkles.”

The tree-hugging event won’t be the only initiative this weekend. The whole family is invited to enjoy the improved theatre with more activities than before.

“We are launching the love lock wall this weekend. We have big outdoor events on 7 and 8 December, with a historical lecture about the 129-year-old building housing the Hull Street Theatre,” added Sedibe.

The theatre will start hosting drama and dance in January. Details will be posted on its Facebook page.

OFM News/Casey-Lee Anthony