Dynamite under the stars

Feeling like the lead actor in a Cremora advert, I was blissfully relieved to blurt out the famous slogan, "Ah, it’s not inside, it's on top," as we approached the venue, appreciating the mystery of one of Cape Town’s hidden gems - a rooftop cinema overlooking Cape Town’s most renowned port.

The Galileo Open Air Cinema is situated on the roof of the covered parking. Market-type food stalls line the immaculately kept croquet lawns and is where visitors are able to choose between nachos, Argentinian sandwiches, hot dogs, popcorn and brownies, which were on sale before the show. There was also a large selection of beer, wine and drinks on offer, which fuelled the buzz and chatter of Cape Town’s socialites, as it filtered into the night sky.

As the sun sets, moviegoers find the perfect spot to spread out their rented blankets or set-up their low chairs on the lawn, before nestling into a cosy position under the stars.

The fading light heralds the start of the movie, with the lights from the city and glow from Cape Town’s Wheel of Excellence providing the perfect setting for an explosive night of entertainment.

We are treated to the odd humour of Napoleon Dynamite, but with shows running until April 2015 at four different venues; Hillcrest Quarry in Durbanville (Tuesdays), Kirstenbosch Gardens in Newlands (Wednesdays), V&A Waterfront (Thursdays) and the Cape Winelands (once a month on a Saturday), every film enthusiast is likely to find an all-time classic that tickles their fancy.

If it is a romantic date you are looking for, most evenings would do just fine. However, the team from The Galileo Open Air Cinema has put together a special treat for Valentine’s Day next year, to ensure Cupid’s arrow does not miss the mark. So book your place now for 14 February 2015, at Groot Constantia Wine Estate, and treat your loved one to a romantic, secret movie experience.

Ticket prices range from the ‘standard’ ticket of R70 to the ‘warm and comfy’ for R90, which includes a unique backrest and cosy blanket. Even in Cape Town’s summer months the evenings are notorious for becoming slightly chilly, as the ocean breeze captures the heat from the day. We had no regrets in selecting the pricier option, as we lay in comfort amongst our well-constructed bed of blankets, which kept the cold draft at bay.

For the film connoisseur, there is a lengthy schedule of endearing classic movies to choose from, so don’t miss out on this dazzling night out under the stars.