The Art Cave Returns to Curate the Kippies Fringe During The Market Theare’s 50th Year

The Market Theatre is proud to announce the return of the Kippies Fringe, curated for the second year running by The Art Cave (Philangezwi Nxumalo and Tebogo Malapane). The 2026 programme – which unfolds from July to December 2026 at Kippies – promises a bold and dynamic fringe offering that engages multiple generations, themes and communities.

This year’s iteration, in the 50th year of The Market Theatre, marks a significant milestone for The Art Cave, while reaffirming The Market Theatre’s commitment to bridging access, empowering up-and-coming storytellers and developing new audiences.

“For 50 years, The Market Theatre has proved itself to be a trusted home of the South African story—and continues to be a space in which diverse voices find expression. The Kippies Fringe sits within that objective of giving space to small-scale work, while amplifying rising voices,” states Greg Homann, Artistic Director at The Market Theatre Foundation.

“Our continued work with The Art Cave is not just a contract, but a decisive commitment to reimagining the next 50 years of live performance, curation and artistic direction. As we give new works on the fringe life, we have also integrated The Art Cave into our artistic and corporate functions for guided mentorship and practical experience across our day to day activities.”

In line with this commitment to growth and operational excellence, Tankiso Mamabolo also joins the team as an intern, offering administrative and project management support, while gaining practical experience.

For The Art Cave, having a return season as curators of the Kippies Fringe is exciting and deeply affirming, reflecting the trust placed in this trailblazing organisation’s ability to present a compelling artistic offering.

“Last year taught us the importance of balance between emerging and established voices, between experimentation and accessibility. This year, we have been more intentional in shaping a programme that not only challenges audiences, but also invites them in. We have improved on structure, diversity and thematic cohesion,” reflects Philangezwi Nxumalo, Artistic Director at The Art Cave.

Nxumalo continues: “We have broadened regional inclusion, strengthened youth participation, and continue to ensure a conscious gender balance across the programme. This is not just a programme, it is a micro reflection of where we are as a society, and where we are going.”

This year’s callout attracted more than 200 applications across the categories of live music, theatre, comedy and young audiences. The selection process focused on authenticity, urgency and artistic innovation.

“We were looking for work that is honest, relevant and bold in its storytelling. The selected productions stood out because they are not only artistically compelling, but they also speak to the times we are living in and align with the scale of the 50-seater fringe venue. There is a strong sense of identity, experimentation and intention across the programme,” shares The Art Cave’s Producer, Tebogo Malapane.

The Market Theatre Kippies Fringe Programme opens in July, with the programme honouring the spirit of legendary jazz icon Kippie Moeketsi through a curated Music Unplugged Weekend. This segment showcases emerging voices in South African soul and jazz, including Sanele Mfene’s Imanyano Yobuhlobo and S’nazo’s self-titled S’nazo Unplugged, offering a contemporary continuation of a rich musical legacy. The month concludes with Zweli and the Lemon Seed, a theatre production for young audiences that blends entertainment and education, focusing on environmental awareness and sustainability which is a clear investment in the next generation.

August explores themes of collaboration and shared space. The programme intentionally features works that centre and elevate women’s voices. Productions such as First Love and Voice of Women reflect a commitment to gender inclusivity, with women leading as directors and performers, while male creators serve to actively support a space for female narratives to thrive.

In September, the programme expands into a broader exploration of heritage and identity. Moving beyond a singular cultural lens, works such as Roti Queen and Sade in Hollandse kombuise spotlight Indian and Afrikaans cultural narratives. This curatorial choice reflects a commitment to unity and dialogue, embracing South Africa’s diversity while reimagining a shared future.

October serves as a space of transition and experimentation within the programme, featuring The Champion and Askies! Sorry. This month continues the programme’s commitment to bold and innovative storytelling that challenges form and expands theatrical language within the Kippies Fringe context.

November brings the programme into an intimate and emotionally charged space through Sense by Thato Moeng and Who Left the Fridge Open? by Botshelo Mmutle. These pieces are positioned to explore the pressures of everyday life and the complexity of human presence through small-scale, character-driven storytelling. This moment in the programme invites reflection, confrontation and recognition.

The programme concludes in December with the Soweto Comedy Festival curated by Kedibone Mulaudzi. This closing moment embraces comedy as both liberation and connection, celebrating voice, resilience and the power of storytelling to travel beyond its origins while remaining rooted in lived experience.

All productions are staged at the intimate 50-seater Kippies venue, located adjacent to The Market Theatre. Tickets for all shows sell for R100 and are available on Webtickets.

ENDS

The Market Theatre Kippies Fringe is an initiative of The Market Theatre, a division of The Market Theatre Foundation

For media enquiries, please contact Bongiwe Potelwa (Publicist at the Market Theatre Foundation) at bongiwep@markettheatre.co.za or (011) 832 1641.

A GOOD HOUSE

Prejudice and Privilege Collide in Amy Jephta’s A GOOD HOUSE

The Market Theatre presents A Good House, a thrilling and comedic hit play written and directed by award-winning contemporary playwright, writer and director, Amy Jephta.

The play first premiered at the Royal Court Theatre and Bristol Old Vic (United Kingdom) in 2025 in association with The Market Theatre, where it earned rave reviews for being a “superb social satire” (The Guardian) that is “excruciatingly funny” (Financial Times) in its “worthy exploration of prejudice and privilege” (LondonTheatre).

This internationally acclaimed South African play of biting satire now arrives in Jo’burg as a fully home-grown production, running from 6 – 30 August 2026 at The Market Theatre.

In the quaint suburban community of Stillwater, a mysterious shack springs up from the dust with the inhabitants nowhere to be seen. As speculation abounds, Black residents “Sihle” (portrayed by Nhlakanipho Manqele) and “Bonolo” (played by Lesoko Seabe) are recruited by their white neighbourhood to be the face of a campaign to demolish the shack.

Christine van Hees, Mary-Anne Barlow, José Domingos and Conrad Kemp complete the impressive cast of this piercing work.

At its core, A Good House is about a couple who discover the limits of good neighbourliness and what is required to fit in. This play – which Jephta was nominated for the prestigious international Susan Smith Blackburn Prize that honours women+writing for the stage – is full of wit, humour, insight and exhilarating tension.

Jephta describes the work as a provocative exploration of the meaning of place, the contradictions of belonging and definitions of community. While complex class dynamics and race relations play out behind high walls, the play raises questions of land, the housing crisis, transformation and racism with tongue-in-cheek honesty.

“These are the shifting terrains that my characters grapple with. The creation of the Black middle class is often spoken about as a post-apartheid policy success, gauged in terms of upward mobility, proximity to whiteness and by implication distance from their often haunted backgrounds. What we haven’t openly interrogated, at least theatrically, is what that kind of assimilation truly costs in the face of long-held prejudices and opportunities conditioned on polishing identities.”

Jephta hopes that the work will live beyond the gated community it’s set in, adding to the ongoing conversation about how the nascent Black middle class – like the couple in the play – find themselves constantly “negotiating their Blackness in spaces where they’re often the first, and indeed only, ones of their kind”.

The Market Theatre Foundation’s Artistic Director, Greg Homann, expresses great excitement and anticipation for A Good House’s South African premiere in the 50^th birthyear of The Market Theatre.

“For us, this work makes the key point that community cannot be understood simplistically. It is much more complex, storied and deeply interconnected in tense but also hearty ways. Through the lens of just one suburb, this play peels the layers off amid raging debates about place and belonging. This is the kind of work that questions who is deemed an outsider and who has the inherent right to claim a piece of land as their home,” Homann says.

Don’t miss this hilarious, joyful and richly themed story of how we live next to each other, how neighbourhoods become communities and how communities make societies. Catch A Good House from 6 – 30 August 2026 at The Market Theatre.

with special discounts for the preview performance, for groups of four or more, and with all Wednesdays at half-price.

Affordable, safe and secure underground parking is available at Newtown Junction.

ENDS.

The Market Theatre is a division of The Market Theatre Foundation, an agency of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture.

For reduced price block bookings (of 10 or more) and school groups, contact Anthony Ezeoke (Audience Development Specialist at The Market Theatre Foundation) atAnthonyE@markettheatre.co.za or 083 246 4950.

For media enquiries, please contact Bongiwe Potelwa (Publicist at The Market Theatre Foundation) at bongiwep@markettheatre.co.za or (011) 832 1641.

THE CRY OF WINNIE MANDELA

The critically acclaimed play, based on Njabulo S. Ndebele’s seminal novel of the same name, returns to The Market Theatre for 6 performances only, following its run at the National Arts Festival. It will sit in the John Kani Theatre between 08 – 12 July 2026.

Directed by MoMo Matsunyane, the much-loved play brings together four women bound by the shared experience of waiting for their husbands’ return. Through intimate moments of reflection and fellowship, they draw strength from – and locate themselves within – the legacy of Winnie Mandela. The women interrogate their waiting, and the emotional, psychological, and social impact it has had on their lives. These explorations unfold into layered, haunting, and deeply resonant conversations that connect the historical struggles of women to contemporary realities – highlighting how the past continues to live in the present.

All this is done with intense emotion and cleverly injected humour, weaving together the characters’ private accounts and exposing the shadows, isolation and complexities of their journeys against the backdrop of the life and times of Winnie Mandela. You are invited to join these resilient women as they gather, share their stories, sing, and metaphorically drink their “tea” – a potent blend of strength and vulnerability.

Award-winning TV actress, theatre practitioner and presenter, Thembisa Mdoda-Nxumalo, takes on the character of ‘Winnie’. Mdoda-Nxumalo joins the remarkable cast, comprising Warona Seane, Les Made, Momo Matsunyane, Nomonde Mbusi and Siyasanga Papu in this searing adaptation of Njabulo S. Ndebele’s seminal novel.

Matsunyane describes the work as a courageous story of endurance and emotional survival: “Winnie Mandela continues to be a powerful, multi-layered figure to explore. Her revolutionary spirit, resilient character and generous heart have become anchors for many women of all generations and identities. Indeed, she did not die; she multiplied.”

The Market Theatre’s 50th Birthday Weekend: A Celebration of the South African Story

The Market Theatre Foundation is excited to announce The Market Theatre’s 50^th birthday weekend celebrations, running from Friday, 19 June – Sunday, 21 June 2026 at The Market Theatre in Newtown. The anniversary festival will comprise a special performance entitled “Let’s Meet at The Market”, exhibitions, surprise appearances, a wall with the names of people who have shaped the Theatre, talks as well as a brand new play acknowledging the historic week in which the theatre opened in June, 1976.

Each of these activities stand as a touchpoint inviting audiences to feel and be a part of the Theatre’s 50-year-strong internationally renowned legacy.

Tshiamo Mokgadi, Chief Executive Officer at The Market Theatre Foundation, describes the 50^th birthday weekend as not just a calendar milestone, but a celebration of 50 years of culture-shifting storytelling, fearless resistance and giving a voice to authentic South African stories.

“As we look back, we reflect not only on the powerful works that have played on our stages, but the people who have turned our space into a dynamic, diverse and truly South African experience. This institution was not built by infrastructure alone; it has always stood on the unbending backs of many individuals, institutions and corporates whose names line the walls on the boards in our foyer.”

Artistic Director, Greg Homann, adds that the weekend programme is framed as a celebration of the South African story, complex and nuanced as it is.

“We have curated the whole birthday weekend experience not only in memory of the past, but as a commitment that The Market Theatre will always be home to the South African story in as authentic a way as possible, told by voices from all backgrounds. This is what has made The Market Theatre so resilient, so agile, and so important for us as a country, and the world, across the decades.”

Below is a full line-up of activities:

Let’s Meet at The Market – John Kani Theatre

Let’s Meet at The Market is a 90-minute multidisciplinary stage production created to celebrate the extraordinary legacy of The Market Theatre. It is a work told through music, movement, spoken word, archival imagery and live performance. Beginning in the old Indian Fruit Market of Newtown, the production journeys across five decades of artistic rebellion, resistance and reinvention, tracing how an abandoned market became one of the world’s most important theatres. The production is directed by Clive Mathibe.

Tickets for this once-off public performance on Sunday, 21 June 2026 are available at R50 from Webtickets.

50 Years Bold – Barney Simon Theatre

A series of five intergenerational conversations under the title, 50 Years Bold, will bring veteran actors, directors, writers, producers, designers, arts administrators and technical personnel into dialogue with the next generation of theatre-makers shaping the institution’s future. Curated by the Artistic Director, with guidance from Vanessa Cooke, Zane Meas, and Nthati Moshesh, the talks will reflect on the Theatre’s radical history, while engaging in conversations around artistic legacy, cultural activism, mentorship, storytelling, production innovation and the evolving role of theatre in contemporary South Africa.

The Company at The Market (Saturday 20 June: 11am)

Join Vanessa Cooke and Janice Honeyman alongside Momo Matsunyana for the first in a series of four FREE intergenerational conversations under the title, 50 Years Bold. This once-off talk shares the story of The Company – an independent group of theatre-makers – who found a home at the fruit market that grew into the internationally renowned Market Theatre that we know today.

Artistic Directors at The Market (Saturday 20 June: 13:45pm)

Join Malcolm Purkey, James Ngcobo, and Greg Homann facilitated by Mxolisi Masilela for the second in a series of four FREE intergenerational conversations under the title, 50 Years Bold. This once-off talk with the current and past Artistic Directors of The Market Theatre shares what it is like to lead the creative life of one of South Africa’s iconic cultural spaces.

Playwrights at The Market (Sunday 21 June: 11am)

Join John Kani, Paul Slabolepszy, and Gcina Mhlophe facilitated by Tiisetso Mashifane wa Noni for the third in a series of four FREE intergenerational conversations under the title, 50 Years Bold. In this once-off conversation with current and past playwrights who have premiered their work at The Market Theatre, they share their reflections on telling the South African story through the medium of theatre.

Actors at The Market (Sunday 21 June: 13:45pm)

Join Zane Meas, Motshabi Tyelele, Christo Davids and Kate Liquorish for the final talk in a series of four FREE intergenerational conversations under the title, 50 Years Bold. These celebrated actors of the stage and screen sit together to reflect on their journey of telling the South African story at The Market Theatre and beyond.

The Market Theatre Foundation Exhibition – Lindelani Buthelezi Gallery

The Market Theatre Foundation Exhibition in the Lindelani Buthelezi Gallery traces the 50-year evolution of the Foundation, charting its journey from the founding of The Market Theatre in 1976 to the growth of its wider creative family. Through archival material, posters, photography and rare images, the exhibition explores the emergence of The Market Photo Workshop, The Market Theatre Laboratory, and the addition of The Windybrow Arts Centre, revealing how each space and programme now contributes to shaping South Africa’s cultural landscape.

The exhibition is free. No reservation required.

Vision / Voice / Legacy Exhibition

This is a contemporary visual arts exhibition celebrating the icons, voices and cultural architects who continue to shape South Africa’s future. The exhibition brings together sixteen contemporary artists commissioned to create original works inspired by some of South Africa’s most influential cultural figures. The exhibition explores the intersection of legacy, identity, leadership, activism, sport, music, fashion and popular culture while creating an intergenerational conversation between the heroes of today and the dreamers of tomorrow. In partnership with the Riky Rick Foundation, the exhibition embraces the spirit of artivism—the intersection of art, culture and social impact. The featured icons include Ricky Rick, Thuso Mbedu, Anele Mdoda, Trevor Noah, Zozibini Tunzi, Julius Malema, Black Coffee and more.

The exhibition is free and open all day from 08 – 29 June 2026 at The Market Theatre.

RISE ’76 – Mannie Manim Theatre

The Market Theatre has teamed up with the Baxter Theatre to co-produce a brand new play, RISE ’76: The Story of June 16^th, that honours the 50^th anniversary of the Soweto Uprising – a milestone that coincides with the week in which The Market Theatre first opened its doors in 1976. It is written and directed by multi-award-winning playwright and director, Tiisetso Mashifane wa Noni.

People of The Market

People of The Market is a wall of names that honours the thousands of individuals who have shaped the life of The Market Theatre over the past five decades. From actors, directors, writers and designers to technicians, administrators, front-of-house staff and producers, the project recognises the many people whose work and presence helped build the Theatre’s legacy. The aim of the initiative is to create the most comprehensive record possible of all those who have worked for or at The Market Theatre across its 50-year history. During the birthday weekend launch and throughout the rest of 2026, digital pads will be available for the public, former staff, artists and collaborators to submit suggested names for inclusion.

The growing installation can be visited during the Theatre’s open hours.

The Market Theatre Tours

Guided tours across the birthday weekend will offer the public a rare behind-the-scenes journey through one of South Africa’s most iconic cultural spaces. Audiences will have the opportunity to explore rehearsal rooms, backstage corridors, dressing rooms, technical areas, and other hidden corners of the Theatre that many never get to see. The tours promise an intimate glimpse into the stories, creativity, and community that continue to define the theatre’s legacy.

Tours are ticketed at R20 on Webtickets and via the Box Office.

Food and Craft Market

An added part of our 50^th birthday weekend festivities is our two-day Food and Craft market, made possible thanks to the support of Proudly SA. Running from 10am to 9pm on Saturday and 10am to 6pm on Sunday, audiences can look forward to a variety of food and crafted items, adding flavour, colour and texture to our celebrations.

The Proudly SA-supported market enhances the festival feel of an exciting weekend line-up, which includes behind-the-scenes tours, special performances, surprise guest appearances, talks, exhibitions and more. Come join us!

The two-day Food and Craft market is also a preview of The Market Theatre Foundation’s upcoming regular market days which will follow in the coming weeks, aimed at bringing together artists, designers, crafters, storytellers, food vendors and social impact entrepreneurs.

For fifty years, our stages have been the home of the South African story, fearlessly centring the rich artistic life that has shaped a nation. Join us for a special weekend-long celebration as we journey across the decades that have forged this iconic space.

ENDS

The Market Theatre Foundation is 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.

WEEKEND PROGRAMME

Saturday 20^th June

10:30am to Close

MTF Exhibition (Lindelani Buthelezi Gallery)

People of the Market (wall of names)

June 16th Exhibition (Mannie Manim foyer)

11am – 12pm

TALK 1: 50 Years Bold – The Company at The Market

Vanessa Cooke & Janice Honeyman facilitated by Momo Matsunyana (Barney Simon Theatre)

12pm – 1pm

Children of the Buffalo Thorn Tree – Market Laboratory Student Production (Ramaloa Makhene Theatre)

12:15pm – 1:30pm

Guided Tour

1:45pm – 2:45pm

TALK 2: 50 Years Bold – Artistic Directors at The Market

Malcolm Purkey, James Ngcobo, and Greg Homann facilitated by Mxolisi Masilela (Barney Simon Theatre)

3pm – 5:30pm

Rise ’76: The Story of June 16^th (Mannie Manim Theatre)

7pm – 9:30pm

Rise ’76: The Story of June 16^th (Mannie Manim Theatre)

Sunday 21^st June

10:30am to Close

MTF Exhibition (Lindelani Buthelezi Gallery)

People of the Market (wall of names)

June 16th Exhibition (Mannie Manim foyer)

11am – 12pm

TALK 3: 50 Years Bold – Playwrights at The Market

John Kani, Paul Slabolepszy, and Gcina Mhlophe facilitated by Tiisetso Mashifane wa Noni (Barney Simon Theatre)

12:15pm – 1:30pm

Guided Tour

1:45pm – 2:45pm

TALK 4: 50 Years Bold – Actors at The Market

Zane Meas, Motshabi Tyelele, Christo Davids and Kate Liquorish (Barney Simon Theatre)

3pm – 4:30pm

Let’s Meet at The Market (John Kani Theatre)

3pm – 5:30pm

Rise ’76: The Story of June 16^th (Mannie Manim Theatre)

Bringing the Market Back to The Market

Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, The Market Theatre returns to its roots as a historic market that turned into an authentic space for human connection and a proud home to the South African story.

The market reimagines a historic site of exchange as a vibrant, contemporary cultural marketplace. More than a trading space, the market is a celebration of creativity, culture and community. It brings together artists, designers, crafters, storytellers, food vendors and social impact entrepreneurs from across South Africa and the broader African continent. Within this dynamic environment, makers engage directly with an audience of thinkers, activists and creatives, creating meaningful human connections beyond just transacting.

Beyond commerce, Bringing the Market Back to the Market is expected to activate the precinct as a thriving cultural hub. It creates an enabling environment for the production, exhibition and consumption of arts and culture, integrating a diverse mix of business trades with live performances and outdoor entertainment.

A Night With Mthunzi

Fresh off the massive success of collaborative hits like “Imithandazo” and “Amazwe”, award-winning vocalist Mthunzi is bringing his undeniable sound to the stage for “A Night With Mthunzi”. On Saturday, June 6, 2026, he’ll be taking over the John Kani stage at Johannesburg’s Market Theatre.

Trading the usual DJ decks for a full live band, Mthunzi is elevating his signature blend of soulful melodies and vibrant rhythms. The show is set up as an immersive journey through his catalogue, giving fans a chance to see the full depth of his artistry. You can expect to hear everything from his deep Afropop roots to the chart-topping Amapiano collaborations with Kabza Da Small that have been dominating the airwaves.

It’s a rare opportunity to experience Mthunzi’s music completely reimagined in a raw, live-instrument setting.

The Quick Details:

Event: A Night With Mthunzi
Date: Saturday, June 6, 2026
Time: 19:00
Venue: John Kani, Market Theatre, Johannesburg
Tickets: Available now on Webtickets

Secure your tickets early and come experience the music live!

Safe, secure and affordable underground parking available at Newtown Junction.

Tony Dayimane – The Big Boy Live Show

On Friday, June 5, 2026, Tony Dayimane is trading the usual heavy bass drops for something a bit more personal. He’s bringing The Big Boy Live Show to the John Kani stage at The Market Theatre for a unique, live-band experience.

Instead of just pressing play, Tony is breaking down his biggest hip-hop anthems and performing them raw and stripped back. Backed by a live band, the show is an intimate musical journey that gives fans a rare chance to hear the soul and artistry behind his multi-platinum catalogue.

Whether you’ve been a day-one supporter or are just getting into his music, this is about experiencing the tracks you know in a completely reimagined way.

Show Details:
● Event: The Big Boy Live Show
● Date: Friday, June 5, 2026
● Venue: John Kani, Market Theatre, Johannesburg
● Tickets: Available now on Webtickets
The Big Boy Live Show
Space is intimate, and tickets will go fast, so secure your spot and be part of the music!
Safe, secure and affordable underground parking available at Newtown Junction.

Tony Dayimane – The Big Boy Live Show

Dada Masilo’s Hamlet

The Market Theatre in association with Dada Masilo/The Dance Factory presents Dada Masilo’s Hamlet for two performances only, prior to an international tour. It will run on Saturday, 16 May at 19h30 and Sunday, 17 May at 15h00 in the John Kani Theatre. The internationally acclaimed piece first premiered at the Burgtheater, Vienna in 2024 as part of the ImPulsTanz International Festival, before touring to Kampnagel, Hamburg and deSingel, Antwerp.

Masilo – who is best known for reinventing classics and for fusing different dance forms to create a new and exciting language – has reimagined Shakespeare’s power play as an hour-long dance theatre piece. Through the eyes of the maiden, Ophelia, the audience is invited to explore what leads to her ultimate despair. Masilo’s interpretation explores misogyny and manipulation, and attempts to make sense of Ophelia’s madness. With references to classical ballet, African dance and period dance in both choreography and music, the work is accompanied by an original score by Thuthuka Sibisi, Ann Masina, Leroy Mapholo and Mpho Mothiba.

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This new version is led by Llewellyn Mnguni, choreographer and long-time colleague, who also plays the role of Hamlet’s mother. Aphiwe Dike continues in the role of Hamlet.

Mnguni aims to honour Masilo’s intent, while further developing the movement’s potential. He is joined by a cast of Johannesburg-based performers from the original cast and also by dancers seconded to this season by both Joburg Ballet and Moving into Dance: Tumelo Lekana, Thando Mgobhozi and David Maluleka from Joburg Ballet; Lesego Dihemo, Wesley Hlongwane, Lucracia Magoro and Nandi Zulu from Moving Into Dance. Newcomers December Skhosana and original cast members Thuso Lobeko and Lehlohonolo Madise (as Ophelia) join the company.

The late Masilo’s works have been performed in 30 countries and 176 cities around the world; and she received numerous accolades and awards. Her immense popularity stemmed from her ability to take inspiration from literature and ballet, and make performances accessible to all. Despite tempting offers, she chose to base herself in Johannesburg, saying it had an edge that flavoured her creations. In her Hamlet, audiences can expect less words, more dance.

Don’t miss this powerful, electric reimagination of the classic theatre piece, as Masilo intended and Mnguni furthered it. Tickets are out on Webtickets, starting from R170. Age restriction: PG12.

ENDS

The Market Theatre is a Division of The Market Theatre Foundation, an agency of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture.

For reduced price block bookings (of 10 or more) and school groups, contact Anthony Ezeoke (Audience Development) at AnthonyE@markettheatre.co.za or 083 246 4950.

For media enquiries, please contact Bongiwe Potelwa (Publicist at the Market Theatre Foundation) at bongiwep@markettheatre.co.za or (011) 832 1641.

Tony Dayimane – The Big Boy Live Show

Afropocalypse

Imaginative Play – “Afropocalypse” – Returns to The Market Theatre Before Touring to Sweden

The multi-award-winning ensemble from The Market Theatre Laboratory is geared up for a return season of “Afropocalypse” at The Market Theatre, after setting the stage on fire with energetic performances in 2025 with their professional debut. The play will show from 7 – 23 May 2026 in the Mannie Manim Theatre, promising renewed energy and exciting storytelling that has proved to be a joy for audiences of all ages.

This electric and hugely imaginative production follows the journey of a group of storytellers in an apocalyptic setting as they share their fables of hope and resilience.

In 2026, “Afropocalypse” scored six Naledi Theatre Awards nominations, winning Best Ensemble.

At the 2025 National Arts Festival in Makhanda, the production won the Festival’s highest Fringe accolade: the Standard Bank Gold Ovation Award.

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Following its return run this Africa Month, the critically acclaimed production will head to Sweden for a showcase at the bibu biennial festival in May. The bibu biennial festival is renowned for being a cultural melting pot in Sweden’s arts scene, bringing together a careful selection of Swedish and international performances for young audiences.

Cherae Halley, Head of The Market Theatre Laboratory, says that “Afropocalypse” being one of only four international productions at this year’s festival, selected from nearly 600 applications, is a notable milestone that speaks to the excellence of the production and the institution behind it.

“The Market Theatre Laboratory continues to build its reputation as a leading incubator for the development of skilled theatre-makers, while also producing bold, cutting-edge work. This international recognition is a testament to our brand and legacy. For most of the cast, which is made up of 14 graduates from The Lab’s full-time two-year programme, this marks their first international debut, and I could not be more thrilled for this ensemble,” Halley remarks.

Directed by Daniel Buckland, “Afropocalypse” was originally produced by The Market Theatre Laboratory as their student production in 2024, and has now grown into an award-winning professional production. The brilliantly entertaining work uses physical comedy and tragic magic realism to paint a vivid and vibrant picture of the past, present and speculative future. The stories they tell are inspired by a myriad of South African voices, from Credo Mutwa to Jan Rabie, to our shared collection of modern South African myths and fables, all interwoven in a comical tapestry of catastrophe and release.

“This is a mischievous and vibrant look at South African society through the lens of all the weird and wonderful ways it could come to an end. The show uses dynamic and joyous ensemble storytelling, with bucket loads of physical comedy, puppetry and storytelling, to paint a vivid picture of the fallibility of humankind, as well as the resilience and creativity of the human spirit,” states director, Daniel Buckland, continuing: “The story leans into joy and tragedy. The idea of an apocalypse is a dark subject matter and framing, the story itself is not only about that. It’s a fun, silly platform to poke fun at contemporary society and take all the delicate bits of South Africa and satirise them.”

Greg Homann, Artistic Director at The Market Theatre Foundation, adds: “This is a show young and old should look forward to watching. Its youthful energy combined with imaginative storytelling make for an entertaining tonic best enjoyed with loved ones and in groups. It’s a wonderful work, with an impressive balance of dark moments mixed in with pure joy, hope, and theatricality.”

Don’t miss this imaginative play as it returns for an unmissable set of performances before its international tour. By attending the production, you will also be helping this formidable ensemble with the costs of taking the show to other parts of the world.

Tickets are available on Webtickets with special discounts for preview performances, for groups of four or more, and with all Wednesdays at half-price.

Safe and secure underground parking is available at the Newtown Junction.

ENDS.

The Market Theatre is a Division of The Market Theatre Foundation, an agency of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture.

For reduced price block bookings (of 10 or more) and school groups, contact Anthony Ezeoke (Audience Development) at AnthonyE@markettheatre.co.za or 083 246 4950.

For media enquiries, please contact Bongiwe Potelwa (Publicist at the Market Theatre Foundation) at bongiwep@markettheatre.co.za or (011) 832 1641.