A Night With Mthunzi

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.

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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

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.

Buy Tickets

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.


Buy Tickets

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.

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.


Buy Tickets

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.

PRIMA FACIE by Suzie Miller 

PRIMA FACIE

How Now Brown Cow in association with The Market Theatre presents the South African premiere of Suzie Miller’s award-winning Prima Facie, directed by celebrated theatre maker Neil Coppen (Isidlamlilo/The Fire Eater; Animal Farm; Tin Bucket Drum).

It will run from 16 Sept – 4 Oct 2026 at The Market Theatre.

Danica De La Rey Jones (Hunting Jessica Brok; Unseen; For Colored Girls) performs the role of Tessa, a brilliant young barrister who climbs her way up from working class origins to the top of her game: defending, cross-examining and winning. Tessa believes in the legal system, until a brutal attack turns her world upside down as she navigates the very same system she once championed. Now put on trial herself, re-traumatised through her cross-examination, she finds herself questioning everything she believed about justice.

Prima Facie is a hard-hitting look at the “patriarchal power of the law” where the burden of proof and existing rules of evidence often work against victims of sexual violence. The 2022 London production of the show was nominated for five Laurence Olivier Awards, with wins for Best New Play and Best Actress for Jodie Comer, who subsequently won a Tony Award for the same role on Broadway in New York.

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“I’m honoured to be directing the South African premiere of this production, the themes of which matter deeply to me and all of us as South Africans who live with some of the highest and most horrific gender-based violence statistics in the world,” says Neil Coppen, director of Prima Facie, adding: “Suzie Miller’s play has had performances across the globe, and over the last few years has been translated into multiple languages. This will be the first time it’s being performed in South Africa, and I couldn’t imagine a more urgent and pertinent context to be presenting the play within.”

“Beyond merely presenting a gripping staging of Prima Facie on South African stages, I’m excited by the opportunity this creates to use the production strategically to deepen the discussion around its concerns and themes with our audiences,” Coppen concludes.

Don’t miss this powerful story of a woman scorned by the institutionalised bias of the law. Tickets for Prima Facie are available on Webtickets. Half-price Wednesdays and special discounts for groups (four or more) also apply.

Safe and affordable underground parking available at Newtown Junction.

ENDS

The Market Theatre is a Division of The Market Theatre Foundation, an agency of the Department of Sports, 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.

Rise 76: The Story of June 16th

RISE ’76 – Marks the 50th Anniversary of June 16th (Extended to 5 july 2026)

New Play – RISE ’76 – Marks the 50th Anniversary of June 16th  (extended to 5 July 2026)

The Market Theatre has teamed up with the Baxter Theatre to co-produce a brand new play, RISE ’76: The Story of June 16th,  that honours the 50th 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 contemporary playwright and director, Tiisetso Mashifane wa Noni.

The collaboration between the two landmark theatres marks a significant cultural moment, highlighting their shared commitment to impactful storytelling. 

This beautifully crafted, moving and powerful work of historical fiction will sit in the Mannie Manim Theatre from 5 June – 5 July 2026, with its run inclusive of two special commemorative performances on Youth Day and being a centrepiece of The Market Theatre’s 50th birthday weekend from 17 – 19 June 2026.

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RISE ‘76 transports audiences to Molefe Secondary, a fictional school in Soweto. As the mid-year exams loom, student leaders “Bafana Buthelezi” (played by Alex Sono) and “Kedibone Moloi” (Zilungile Mbombo) find themselves in a heated confrontation with their principal, “Mr Alfie Ndlovu” (Botlhale Mahlangu), over the imposition of Afrikaans as a medium of instruction. The disagreement quickly escalates into a tragic turning point, altering the course of history and exposing apartheid’s brutality.

Completing the cast are Deon Lotz, Mfuneli Ntumbuka, Sbuja Dywili and Ben Albertyn.

Since opening at the Baxter Theatre on 12 May 2026, the production has garnered widespread acclaim. Broadway World hailed it as “a haunting and powerfully human portrait of the Soweto uprising,” while legendary actress Thembi Mtshali-Jones praised its “emotional and historical weight”. Journalist and podcast host Nancy Richards described it as “worth seeing if only for the interpretation by the whole creative team and the power of the performers”.

For The Market Theatre, RISE ’76 intertwines the theatre’s legacy with the country’s liberation history. Opening its doors just three days after June 16th, The Market Theatre joined the struggle against apartheid through bold and fearless storytelling. Fifty years later, the space is still home to the South African story in its abundant complexity, contradiction and humanity.

“This gripping play locates itself within, and further enriches, The Market Theatre’s five decades-long legacy of reflecting the South African story—one of resilience, meaningful human connection and the fight for justice. It is an impeccably researched production, while also being a piercingly honest and deeply humanising piece of historical fiction that re-examines the events leading up to – and the immediate aftermath of – the historic day with compassion and care for the affected families and lost lives,” says Greg Homann, Artistic Director at The Market Theatre Foundation.

With this play, Mashifane wa Noni, a two-time Fleur du Cap-winning playwright-director, brings a uniquely intimate and compelling exploration of the individual and collective memory of June, 16 1976. The script derives from firsthand interviews, archival records and existing literature to ground the historical fiction in harrowing reality. Her artistic focus is on the ordinary and often overlooked details of the day; what she calls ‘the smaller ripple effects’ instead of the bigger narrative from history textbooks, important as that is.

“With an event of this magnitude, thousands of details can easily fall through the cracks. So, with this play, I have picked up what I think are only a couple of crumbs, but the crumbs do give us an idea of the various flavours of that terrible day,” she shares.

“What drew me to joining this project was not only the opportunity to reflect on something 50 years later with the hindsight of today, but also the challenge of telling a story that almost every South African knows, and finding ways to experience it anew. My philosophy in telling this very well-known story was to always remember that there is not one dominant ‘true’ voice. Rather, there are many different voices that can complement or contradict the greater historical narrative that we know.”

Don’t miss this fresh and captivating play by one of South Africa’s most exciting young voices, as told by a brilliant cast. Tickets for RISE ’76: The Story of June 16th are available on Webtickets from R110, including special half-price performances on 16 June and Wednesdays, discounts for preview performances and groups of four or more, and a further reduced price for school groups of 10 or more when booking directly with The Market Theatre.

Safe, secure and affordable 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) 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.

Dada Masilo’s Hamlet

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 19h00 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. 

Buy Tickets

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. 

AFROPOCALYPSE

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.

Buy Tickets

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.

Manana – Mending Broken Hearts Tour

Manana – Mending Broken Hearts Tour

MANANA ANNOUNCES THE MENDING BROKEN HEARTS TOUR — HIS FIRST EVER NATIONWIDE THEATRE TOUR 

A Love Letter to South Africa Spanning an Entire Career 

Johannesburg, South Africa: Soulful singer-songwriter and producer, Manana has announced his highly anticipated Mending Broken Hearts Tour, a landmark nationwide theatre experience that will see the acclaimed artist take the stage in six cities across South Africa. This marks Manana’s first ever theatre tour on a national scale and promises to be one of the most intimate and emotionally resonant live experiences the country has seen in years. 

The tour will touch down in Johannesburg, East London, Port Elizabeth, Durban, Cape Town, and Pretoria, offering fans across the nation the rare opportunity to witness Manana in the setting his artistry was made for: an intimate theatre, where every note and lyric can be felt in full. 

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The Mending Broken Hearts Tour is more than a concert series. It is a journey through the full arc of Manana’s career, from the raw vulnerability of his 2020 debut EP In the Beginning Was the End, through the tender longing of the 2022 EP But Could the Moments in Between, and culminating in the rich, healing soundscape of his 2024 debut album Our Broken Hearts Mend and extended 2025’s offering OBHM: Full Stop, the final chapter of his acclaimed romantic trilogy. Together, these projects trace the full emotional map of love: its beginning, its complexity and ultimately, its healing. 

“This trilogy has always been about the journey,” says Manana. “Heartbreak, intense love, everything in between and finally, mending. This tour is for everyone who has carried a broken heart. We’re going to mend it together.” 

In a deeply special moment for long-time fans, Manana will also perform a selection of songs he has not performed live in years and which he will perform for the very last time on this tour. These performances are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to hear the music that shaped Manana’s voice and marked the beginning of his story. 

The aim of this tour is simple and profound: healing. Whether you’re navigating heartbreak, rediscovering love or simply in need of a space to feel, the Mending Broken Hearts Tour is your invitation. 

Johannesburg: 17 April, 19:30pm | 18 April, 19:30pm | 19 April, 15:00 | John Kani Theatre, Market Theatre | Tickets @Webtickets 

Stay connected via @officialmanana across all platforms. 

Our broken hearts will mend.