SKIN WE ARE IN: A Thought-provoking play for the times we are in
The Windybrow Arts Centre and Turquoise Harmony Institute, in partnership with ASSITEJ SA and the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC), present the return of Skin We Are In, following its previous successful tours. This thought-provoking piece is set to start touring schools, festivals and community spaces from 10 March 2026, engaging young audiences in meaningful dialogue.
Originally performed by the Kwasha! Theatre Company, the production now features an all-new cast, bringing renewed energy and perspective to a story that remains deeply relevant.
It is directed by Mosie Mamaregane.
Skin We Are is based on the acclaimed children’s book of the same title, authored by Dr Sindiwe Magona and Professor Nina Jablonski and published by New Africa Books). The book, available in all 11 official South African languages, addresses the historical misuse of science to justify discrimination – particularly during apartheid – and reframes skin colour as something natural, meaningful, and often misunderstood.
Adapted for stage by award-winning playwright for young audiences, Omphile Molusi, the play offers an enriching theatrical experience designed to support conversations around race, belonging and shared humanity.
Through storytelling, music, and audience interaction, the piece introduces complex ideas in an age-appropriate and engaging way. Grounded in scientific research, the production challenges misconceptions about skin colour, emphasising that skin tone accounts for only 0.001% of human biological difference.
“Children are born with the innate ability to want to live, learn and adapt. If anyone can learn to look beyond small differences, to appreciate variety and value people for who they really are, it’s them,” says Dr Magona, on why the play continues to be an essential viewing for young audiences.
“Performances of Skin We Are In will allow more young people access to valuable research and ideas that already exist in the book,” she adds. “It can also inspire teachers to shift conversations around skin colour and help foster healthier attitudes.”
Gerard Bester, Head of The Windybrow Arts Centre, thanks Turquoise Harmony Institute and ASSITEJ South Africa for making sure this work reaches more audiences. “This project,” Bester continues, “will create public forums through theatre and post-performance workshops, engaging young audiences, teachers and parents, that will challenge social biases and discrimination, foster empathy and create a safe space for necessary dialogue on identity.”
For Turquoise Harmony Institute, the production forms part of its broader commitment to social cohesion and inclusive education across diverse communities. Through arts-based learning, the Institute seeks to create safe spaces for young people to explore identity, challenge prejudice, and build empathy. The 2026 tour reflects the Institute’s ongoing work with schools to nurture dignity, mutual respect and shared humanity.
“ASSITEJ SA is proud to partner with the production in order to reach more schools and youth in Gauteng. As an organisation, our work ensures access to the arts, supports artists, empowers education and connects and advocates for the role of the arts in the lives of children and young people,” says Yvette Hardie, Director: ASSITEJ South Africa and Honorary President: ASSITEJ International Association for Theatre and Performing Arts for Children and Young People.
Hardie adds that the play will also be promoted as part of ASSITEJ SA’s Take A Child (Teen) to the Theatre Today campaign, which celebrates the World Day of Theatre for Young Audiences on 20 March each year.
Tshepo Madlingozi, Commissioner: Anti-racism, Education and Equality Office at SAHRC, says “Skin We Are In” speaks directly to the Commission’s key programmes, such as calling out for the phasing out of state racial classification, sensitivity and diversity training, Schools’ Model Code of Conduct as well as the Rights and Responsibility Campaign.
“All of the above are anchored on and inspired by our National Question Campaign, which ultimately seeks to proactively create a South Africa where everyone has a sense of affective and material belongingness. The creative arts have a pivotal role to play in this regard. As an independent constitutional body, we are humbled and honoured to join this wonderful initiative,” concludes Commissioner Madlingozi.
Don’t miss this insightful, thought-provoking piece that equips young audiences with the skills, vocabulary and psychology to embrace difference.
ENDS
The Windybrow Arts Centre is a division of The Market Theatre Foundation, an agency of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture.
For media enquiries, please contact Bongiwe Potelwa (Publicist at The Market Theatre Foundation) at bongiwep@markettheatre.co.za or (011) 832 1641.
For reduced price block bookings and school groups, contact Anthony Ezeoke (Audience Development Specialist) at AnthonyE@markettheatre.co.za or 083 246 4950.
