The Rainbow Experience was opened by Shaun Johnson, author and head of the Mandela Rhodes Foundation, in Mandela Rhodes Place in the Cape Town city centre last night.

“Showcasing the creativity and enterprising spirit of the Rainbow Nation”, according to its brochure, the outlet is a coffee shop/restaurant, art gallery, bookshop, CD store, gift shop, craft shop, internet cafe, and functions venue, all in one space over three levels.   A documentary about Nelson Mandela can also be seen.   Regular jazz performances will be organised. 

The driving force of the new outlet is Alison (Mulhall) Mc Cutcheon, who owns the Rainbow Experiential Marketing company.

Mandela’s image dominates through paintings and a wall mural outside the shop, on Church Street. “The Rainbow Experience is a destination store … with a difference and welcomes visitors of all ages.   It is truly inspirational, a song for the soul, interesting, cultural, fun, educational, and a fascinating insight into the old and new South Africa.   It’s roots can be no better, set around the story of the life and leadership of Madiba.   Mr Mandela’s life and times are celebrated and illustrated in a beautiful way”, adds the brochure.

More details are available at www.therainbowexperience.co.za or tel 021 422 1428.

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