Designed to resemble the neo-Gothic lines of England’s Salisbury Cathedral, this is considered to be the finest church of its kind in the country. A priceless collection of Cape Dutch silver is housed in a vault in the vestry. The existing church is the final product of three previous attempts, the original church was built in 1792, but was destroyed by fire in 1799, the second church was erected in 1800,however due to the increase in the congregation, a third church was erected in 1823, and served the community for 60 years. The fourth and existing church was erected in 1886.

From the time of the establishment of Graaff-Reinet in 1786 until 1792 it had no minister.  As early as 1778 Governer van Plettenberg was petitioned by the inhabitants of this area, inter alia for the erection of a church.  The ecclesiastical silver still in use at the church is exceptionally valuable and comprises of Cape Silver Baptismal Font, donated to the church in 1839.

The John Rupert Theatre plays an active part in Graaff-Reinet's cultural life. It is run by a committee of volunteers, who screen two films every month – an evening show on the first Wednesday of the month, and a matinee on the third Saturday – as well as hosting regular plays, musical performances, comedy and dance. It also in demand as a venue for touring productions.

Formerly a Congregational Mission Church, with the original pulpit still in the foyer, the John Rupert Theatre is famous for being the only theatre in the Camdeboo region. The Theatre was founded when Dr Anton Rupert purchased and restored the old Coloured Missions Church – referred to as the “Groot London” - and handed it over to the town council for the community's use. Incidentally, this Congregational Mission Church was responsible for the founding of the first private school for the coloured community in 1801. The building is named after 
Dr Rupert's father, and was inaugurated as a theatre in January 1980.

The John Rupert Theatre is for hire as a venue for conferences or large meetings.

Contact Laura Knott-Craig for Venue hire @ 082 - 779 1044