The Castle at 24 Old Main Road at Gillitts has a romantic history. It was built in the '60s by Heinrich Haape, a visiting Russian composer who fell in love with an opera singer called Martha. Long-time Durban music lovers will remember Martha Haape from her appearances in operas produced by the Natal Performing Arts Council.

Heinrich Haape designed and built the house for Martha to sing in. The acoustics in the small hall are excellent and he envisioned it as a rehearsal venue for NAPAC’s singers and musicians. Martha Haape is still alive and the sons have the building in trust for future heirs.

Well-known folk singer Mim Erasmus is presenting a series of monthly concerts at the Castle. The accent is on simplicity - with just voice and guitar and no sound equipment - and the music lends itself well to its surroundings.

As the next concert tkes place at 15h00 on March 16, close to St Patrick's Day, the programme will be titled The Gentler Side of Irish

Booking is essential as seating is limited. Tickets R30 (byob although there is a coffee bar). Contact 031 777 1669 or e-mail: mim1@telkomsa.net

The venue is available for hire for concerts, recitals, poetry readings, healing seminars etc. or for art displays. Contact Jean Gravett on 031 765 2683.