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Blues in the Night

Blues in the Night

The Market Theatre in partnership with U.S-based Hattiloo Theatre presents, direct from Memphis Tennessee, the first performance of “Blues in the Night” in Africa. Running for a strictly limited season from 5 – 22 February 2026, this Tony-nominated musical celebrates blues, jazz and gospel classics and their connection with love, resilience and the emotional lives of Black women.

It is directed and choreographed by Emma Crystal, with musical direction by Dr. Ashley K. Davis.

Conceived by Tony Award winner, Sheldon Epps, “Blues in the Night” is a scorching, small-scale musical in which the soul of the blues wails out full and strong. Through 26 hot and torchy numbers, the show weaves the sweet, sexy, and sorrowful stories of three women entangled with a lying, cheating man, leaving audiences energised and inspired. Featuring glorious songs by legends such as Bessie Smith, Duke Ellington, Johnny Mercer, Harold Arlen, Alberta Hunter, Jimmy Cox, Ida Cox, and more, the musical captures the pain and heartache of life and love, as well as the resilience and determination that define the very essence of the blues.

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The show arrives at The Market Theatre as part of Black History Month, which marks its 100th year in 2026. The centenary calls for an honest reflection on memory, healing, culture, as well as the condition and position of Black bodies in an increasingly divided world.

Playing alongside South Africa’s musical theatre classic “Marabi”, this curated season of musical work at The Market Theatre celebrates the influence of song and sound across the USA and South Africa in confronting injustice and giving oppressed people a vocabulary of resistance and hope. 

In addition, arriving in South Africa in the 70th anniversary of the historic 9 August 1956 Women’s March, this production aims to put a much needed spotlight on Black women’s struggles across the world, highlighting the shared challenges we face.

Don’t miss this wonderful chance to enjoy the best of Memphis talent at The Market Theatre for a powerful celebration in February of music, history and heritage.