Designed by Jack Barnett, The Baxter Theatre opened on 1 August 1977, due in large part to a bequest from Dr. Duncan Baxter to the University of Cape Town. Dr. Baxter wish was that the University establish a theatre where the arts in Cape Town and its adjacent districts could be cultivated and developed.

The Baxter aspires to present and host the best of South African performing arts, and stages cutting edge and major works from South Africa and abroad. With three distinct spaces, the Theatre, Concert Hall and Studio Theatre, The Baxter provides a platform for all forms of professional entertainment, from music and drama to ballet, opera and intimate theatre.