When he’s not firing up crowds with his sold-out, one-man comedy shows, actor and funnyman Kurt Schoonraad can usually be found firing up an engine. The District Six–born comedian has two great loves outside of the spotlight: a good laugh and a great car. And there’s no better place to enjoy both than Cape Town – the city he proudly calls home.
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“It’s an absolute privilege to live in Cape Town,” he says. “The people, the places, the stories… there’s so much to see and do.”
We asked Kurt to share his ultimate day out in Cape Town. Here’s how he’d spend it… and you can too…
District Six Museum
For Kurt, popping into the city’s museums isn’t just about looking at old photos. At the District Six Museum, it feels like stepping straight back into his childhood growing up in District Six. He remembers the area before the forced removals, when it was a colourful mix of people, music, neighbours who all knew each other and were a close-knit community.
The District Six Museum grew out of that history. It began to take shape in the late 1980s after the large Hands-Off District Six conference, and officially opened in 1994 with its inaugural exhibition, Streets: Retracing District Six.
“It’s a place filled with stories and memories of the people who once lived there. As one of the last residents, the characters who once lived here gave the place its soul,” he says.
“There’s something about going to a museum. There’s a vibe, an energy that reminds me of being a kid again.”
Location: 25A Buitenkant Street, District Six, Cape Town
Price: Self-guided walk: R60. With ex-resident guide: R75
Website: www.districtsix.co.za/
Laude Classic Cars
As a serious car lover and the proud owner of more than a few classic beauties, Kurt cannot resist a visit to Laude Classic Cars. The place is like a candy store for petrolheads, filled with everything from classic Rolls-Royces and Bentleys to Jaguars, Aston Martins and other vintage stunners sourced from all over the continent.
He usually grabs a coffee or something tasty at the Crankshaft Café Classic Coffee Bar, then wanders around the showroom taking in all the curves. “I am a big automotive fan. I think it is the coolest thing in the world. I am blown away by the automotive parts side of it, especially from the 50s, 60s and 70s,” he adds.
Location: 120 Buitengracht Street, City Centre
Price: Free entry. Café items are priced separately.
Website: www.laudeclassics.com/showroom/
Voom Voom Records & Vintage, Observatory
If you spot a vintage Vespa buzzing down Lower Main Road in Observatory, chances are it’s Kurt on his way to Voom Voom Records & Vintage. It’s one of his happy places, where you can flip through rare vinyl, CDs and tapes, or dig through racks of vintage clothing, from hats and jackets to sunglasses, dresses, and all sorts of retro gems.
“This is one of my favourite places in Obs,” he says.
Kurt lives in Observatory, and he loves soaking up the neighbourhood’s easy-going, artsy energy. He enjoys checking out the graffiti or catching up with friends at one of the many restaurants and bars.
Location: 15 Lower Main Rd, Observatory
Price: Various
Website: voomvoomrecords.com/
Newlands Forest
Kurt often starts or ends his day in Newlands Forest, tucked along the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. It’s easy to see why: the forest offers everything from quick strolls to tougher trails, picnic areas, and some of the most gorgeous views in the city.
Most days, he grabs coffee and meanders under the canopy. It’s his reset button.
“I find the colour green so relaxing,” he says. “Some of my best writing happens here. There’s solitude, there’s a vibe… it clears my head.”
Location: Table Mountain National Park, Cape Town
Price: Free entry, but permits are required from SANParks for cyclists and dog walkers.
Contact: Call 021 712 0527
