As pop star Rachel Marron, played by Whitney Houston in the 1992 Hollywood hit film on which the musical is based (with Houston singing all the songs on the movie’s record-shattering soundtrack), Belinda Davids brings a four-octave singing voice and a wealth of experience as an interpreter of Houston’s songs, having performed them on stages all around the world as the lead in the Whitney Houston tribute show The Greatest Love Of All. She also reached the finals of Britain’s Got Talent: Season 14 and received a Golden Buzzer on the Spanish television show Got Talent: All-Stars. The Bodyguard marks her debut in musical theatre.

Opposite Davids, playing Rachel Marron’s bodyguard Frank Farmer (Kevin Costner in the film), the multi-award-winning Craig Urbani is arguably South African musical theatre’s pre-eminent performer, having appeared in lead roles in We Will Rock You, The Sound of Music, My Fair Lady and return runs of The Rocky Horror Show since 2023 alone as well as in Chicago The Musical, Rock of Ages, West Side Story, Saturday Night Fever, Hair, Grease, Kiss Me Kate and The Buddy Holly Story.

Stephanie Baartman plays Rachel Marron’s sister Nicki. Baartman is a popular music, television and theatre presence with over two decades of experience, including a long-running starring role on KykNET’s Getroud Met Rugby; the powerful one-woman show Hoort, which earned her the Outstanding Contribution to Contemporary Music award at Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees, plus a Kanna nomination; and playing Edith Piaf opposite André Schwartz in the much-loved production Brel and Piaf.

Other featured roles see an exciting array of talent take the stage. Jock Kleynhans (MAMMA MIA!, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The Dumb Waiter) plays the Stalker; Sandi Dlangalala (Hlakanyana The Musical, My Fair Lady, Pretty Woman The Musical) plays Sy Spector/Mr Klingman; and Russel Savadier (The Good White, The Murder Of Roger Ackroyd, Waiting For Godot) plays Bill Devaney. Boris Petrenko (Hairspray, Sweeney Todd, Othello) stars as Tony Scibelli; Matt Newman (MAMMA MIA!, Betrayal, Sweet Phoebe) plays Ray Court, and Matthew Vey (Metamorphoses, I Can’t Speak For Freddy, The Cravy) does triple duty as Douglas/Jimmy/Bobby.

The rest of the cast comprises backing vocalists Hope Mkhway (Dirty Dancing: The Celebration, Hall Of Fame) and Siya Makakane (We Will Rock You, Peter Pan); dancers Tamsyn Leigh Dexter (Xcode, Unthinkable), Golda Rabe (So You Think You Can Dance SA, The Masked Singer SA), Janelle Mitchell (Ignite, Afrikaans Is Groot), Shannon Bester (Messiah Minerva Woven, Carmen), Jayden Ockhuis (Paper + Roses, Majika), Yaseen Manuel (Porgy And Bess, Melting Truth), Chichi Nwoha (Pretty Woman The Musical, Mamma Mia!),  Lee Miller (Boogie Boogie, Afrikaans is 100 Jaar Groot), Jordan Rogers (Beauty And The Beast, MAMMA MIA!), Yethu Kibi (Joseph And The Technicolor Dream Coat, Heathers), Danny Meaker (Pretty Woman The Musical, Alice In Wonderland) and Liam Gillespie (Little Shop Of Horrors, The Craving) – who also serves as Dance Captain.

The Bodyguard brings together theatre professionals from around the world and South Africa. The international team includes Kim Ace Nielseon (Associate Director), Ryan-Lee Seager (Choreography), Jeppe Laweatz (Lighting Designer/ Tech Supervisor), and Lasse Storm Jensen (Tech Supervisor). In South Africa, Hazel Feldman and Tony Feldman are the producers, and Darren Greeff is Associate Producer and Resident Director. The local team comprises Alistair Kilbee (Technical Director), David Classens (Sound Designer) and Daniel Geddes (Music Director).

Hazel Feldman cannot wait to get going with this sterling cast and team, saying, “To be able to assemble such a strong cast and to be working with our international colleagues and brilliant local production team is such a thrill. Debuting a major musical in South Africa is a massive enterprise, but we know we have the best people involved and we can’t wait to bring this powerful story to the stage.”

With its combination of chart-topping music, glamorous superstar energy, romance and edge-of-your-seat drama, The Bodyguard is a spectacular theatrical experience for Whitney Houston fans and musical theatre audiences alike. It’s an unforgettable love story that sees a former Secret Service agent, Frank Farmer, hired as a private bodyguard to protect global singing superstar Rachel Marron from a mystery stalker, struggling to balance his duty to protect her and her family with his growing feelings for his client. Fame, danger and desire collide, and an unexpected romance unfolds – backed by some of Whitney Houston’s biggest hits, including “I Will Always Love You,” “I Wanna Dance with Somebody,” “Queen of the Night,” “I Have Nothing,” “Run to You” and “So Emotional.”

Get your tickets now! Note: This production has a PG rating 12+ owing to adult themes, language, and content. Parental guidance is advised. Terrific Tuesday discounts available. Ts and Cs apply. A 20% block booking discount is offered on groups of 20+ on selected shows for specific price categories. Contact sales@showtime.co.za. Book today at ticketmaster.co.za. Ticketmaster is the ONLY official exclusive ticketing agent, and tickets should not be purchased from any other supplier or outlets.

The post Superb Cast Announced for The Bodyguard: The Musical’s SA Debut appeared first on Stage and Screen.

Based on Charles Dickens’ timeless Oliver Twist, the much-loved musical tells the story of a young orphan’s search for family, friendship and a place to call home, set to unforgettable songs including “Food, Glorious Food”, “Consider Yourself” and “Reviewing the Situation”.

Sharing the title role is Lucas Hau (12) from Rondebosch, who has dreamed of performing for as long as he can remember; James Touze (12) from Paarl, who discovered his love of musical theatre while playing Joseph in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at Artscape; and Sam Lamond (10) from Noordhoek, who made his professional theatre debut as Bruce Bogtrotter in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Chinese touring production of Matilda the Musical, performing more than 80 shows across 10 cities in China. For all three, playing Oliver is an exciting new chapter in their fledgling stage career journeys.

Leading the cast as the charismatic Fagin is Jonathan Roxmouth (A Little Night Music, Key Change, Chicago the Musical), with Bethany Dickson (The Addams Family, BUDDY, The Buddy Holly Story) as the courageous Nancy and Graham Hopkins (Agatha Christie’s The Murder of Roger Ackroyd, My Fair Lady) as Mr Brownlow. William Berger (The Barber of Seville, The Sound of Music, Bluebeard’s Castle) plays Mr Bumble, Richard Gau (One Piece, Martyrs) is the notorious Bill Sikes, and Daniel Anderson (The Tramp, Die Siel van Eugene Marais) takes on the irrepressible Artful Dodger. Chris van Rensburg (The Addams Family, 7de Laan) appears as Mr Sowerberry/Grimwig, Diane Simpson as Mrs Sowerberry/Bedwin, Megan Spencer (The Royal Countess Zingara, My Fair Lady) as Mrs Corney and Sunny Yoon (Mamma Mia!, One Piece) as Bet. They’ll be joined by a talented ensemble and 25 children who bring the bustling streets and colourful characters of Victorian London to life.

With its memorable music, lively choreography, wonderful costumes and a story that continues to resonate across generations, OLIVER! promises a theatrical treat for the whole family. The production brings together some of South Africa’s finest musical theatre talent in a world where hardship meets hope, and kindness can change a young life.

Opening at the magnificent Teatro at Montecasino in Johannesburg on Sunday 31 January at 4pm, with previews on Friday 29 January at 7:30 pm and Saturday 30 January at 2:30 pm & 7:30 pm.

Tickets cost from R220 per person, and booking is through Webtickets and the theatre box office (011) 511 1988

Book your tickets for OLIVER! through Webtickets and secure your seats.

The post Meet the Olivers: Three Boys, One Iconic Role and an Unforgettable Musical! appeared first on Stage and Screen.

The reviews are in, and audiences agree — MAMMA MIA! is sensational! Hailed by Stage & Screen as “a vibrant South African production that breathes fresh life into the beloved ABBA musical” and described by Netwerk24 as “sexy, speelse”, this spectacular production is winning hearts and earning rave reviews. From “exceptional mind-blowing performance” to a “totally deserved” standing ovation of more than 10 minutes, audiences are calling it “Simply the Best!” and urging everyone to go and see it — even if they’ve seen it before.  Get ready to dance, jive and have the time of your life with MAMMA MIA! at Montecasino’s Teatro!

The irresistible combination of fun, friendship, romance and unforgettable ABBA hits ensures that MAMMA MIA! remains a firm favourite with musical theatre fans of all ages. Jozi audiences are reconnecting with the much-loved characters at the heart of the story, led by SA’s Broadway star, Amra-Faye Wright as Donna Sheridan, alongside her hilarious friends Tanya, played by Samantha Peo, and Rosie, played by Lindy Abromowitz Sachs. Leah Mari stars as Sophie, the bride-to-be seeking her father before her wedding to Sky, played by Jock Kleynhans. Paul du Toit, Tiaan Rautenbach and Matt Newman star as the three potential dads, with Michelle Juncker as Lisa and Angelica Hattingh as Ali.  Packed with laughter, romance and toe-tapping tunes, this vibrant all-South African production brings the beloved story to life at Montecasino’s Teatro.

MAMMA MIA! with all its sensational music, sublime star-studded cast and fun vibes, is musical entertainment for the whole family with a broad appeal to audiences of all ages. Book now at Ticketmaster.co.za.  Enjoy reduced ticket prices every Terrific Tuesday, as well as discounted group bookings for groups of 20+ tickets, available via sales@showtime.co.za.

Ticketmaster is the ONLY official exclusive ticketing agent, and tickets should not be purchased from any other supplier or outlets. #mammamiaSA

The post MAMMA MIA! Extends Montecasino Run to 29 November appeared first on Stage and Screen.

The African Premiere of Sleeping Beauty The Musical will be on stage at Peoples Theatre from 3 November – 24 December 2026, giving Joburgers the ideal way to end the year with a bang…. And with some exhilarating theatre magic!

Meet Princess Aurora and Prince Perrault

Gabrielle De Gama (Princess Aurora) is a versatile young South African performer, singer and actress with a passion for musical theatre, storytelling and dance. Her performance journey began at an early age, with theatre credits including Annie Jnr and Seussical the Musical at Peoples Theatre, alongside musical theatre studies and extensive vocal, acting and dance training.

On screen, Gabrielle played young Reyka in the Emmy-nominated South African crime drama Reyka, and has also appeared in Netflix’s Soccer Season: Playmaker.

As a recording artist, Gabrielle is signed to Virgin Music under her stage name Jaydn Elle, with several music-video releases including Sithandane and Do 4 Love, further showcasing her talents as a vocalist and performer.

With a mezzo-soprano vocal range and experience across stage, screen, music and dance, Gabrielle is thrilled to bring her love of performance, warmth and imagination to the enchanting role of Princess Aurora in Sleeping Beauty The Musical.

Tumelo Mogashoa (Prince Perrault) was raised as a somewhat young amateur actor in the USA, went through training at the Round House Theatre workshops and had his first amateur performance in The King and I.

He returned to South Africa to complete high school at the National School of Arts in Johannesburg. He recently graduated with a diploma from the Luitingh Alexander Musical Theatre Academy (LAMTA) in Cape Town and, trained as a triple threat, Tumelo has performed in LAMTA’s productions Mephisto, COSI and Being Steve, among others. Tumelo has also just finished the successful run of LAMTA’s Spring Awakening.

He was also cast in the international touring production of Disney’s The Magic Box, playing the lovable old Goofy.

Since then, Tumelo has become a freelance artist and has enjoyed working in both community theatre and the professional stage.

Now he’s excited to make his debut on the Peoples Theatre stage as the Prince in Sleeping Beauty The Musical.

“Sometimes, very rarely, someone walks into an audition room and magic happens and they are just perfect for the role. This time, two dazzling young talented actors arrived within 15 minutes of each other and I knew we had found our Princess Aurora and her handsome Prince! Now let the magic begin!”

Jill Girard, Producer and Director

Joining Gabrielle and Tumelo to complete the adult lead roles are Donae Brazer as Queen Catherine, Gamelihle “Game” Bovana as King Henry, Luciano Zuppa as Hellisent and Priyanka Bandu as Fairy Tulip.

Get Ready for a Magical Adventure With Sleeping Beauty The Musical

Sleeping Beauty The Musical brings a brand-new spin to the traditional fairy-tale we all know and love.

With all original songs, Sleeping Beauty The Musical follows Princess Aurora on her journey of self-discovery. Cursed as a child, the princess is raised in hiding, then a chance meeting with Prince Perrault sets the wheels in motion for an exciting but dangerous adventure in this ultimate tale of good vs. evil.

Hunted by the wicked Hellisent, Princess Aurora must find her own path and navigate the responsibilities of royal duty and the pursuit of her own dreams. Will Hellisent steal the throne from King Henry, or will Princess Aurora reclaim her rightful place in the Kingdom of Australis?

Step inside a world of magical fairies, raven spies and a whole host of wonderful characters.

Sleeping Beauty The Musical has been casting more than a ‘little bit of magic’ in theatres all over the world.

Now, this charming musical is bringing the magic to Africa for the very first time, transforming the stage into an enchanted kingdom, offering the perfect holiday treat for the young and the young at heart.

“I am very excited for the African premiere of Sleeping Beauty The Musical. To see families come together and experience the warmth and magic of this show is always so special, and now to have this incredible cast bring my words to life so beautifully on the stage in a brand new production in South Africa is a true gift.”

• Ian Curran – Writer and Lyricist of Sleeping Beauty The Musical

This brand-new production of Sleeping Beauty The Musical is packed with laughter and magical moments, making it perfect for school groups, families and children of all ages. With plenty of audience participation, everyone can join in the fun, boys and girls alike!

Sleeping Beauty The Musical teaches us that good will always triumph over evil, and that true love, patience and resilience can overcome even the most wicked curse cast by the Evil Fairy. At its heart, the story reminds us that kindness and love will always prevail.

Sleeping Beauty The Musical is produced by Peoples Productions in collaboration with Joburg Theatre and presented by arrangement with Curran Media Group Ltd.

Book and Lyrics by Ian Curran and Music by Simon Hanson & Peter Vint.

Whether you’re cheering on the prince or watching the colourful fairies weave their spells, this endearing adventure reminds us all that love and bravery can conquer any darkness.

Sleeping Beauty The Musical

• Performances are from Tuesday, 3 November – Thursday, 24 December 2026.
• Show times for schools are Tuesday to Friday at 09:00 am and 11:00 am.
• Show times for the public are 10h30 and 14h30 – Saturdays & Sundays and during school holidays.

Ticket Prices

• R180 per person for members of the public
• R145 if you are a member of the Peoples Theatre Kids Club
• R155 for public accompanying members

School Bookings are now OPEN and filling up quickly!

For school group rates, please contact the theatre directly.

Bookings and Enquiries

PLEASE BOOK EARLY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT

Call 011 877 6841 or email info@peoplestheatre.co.za for bookings or enquiries.

You can also book online at www.joburgtheatre.com or via Webtickets.

Sleeping Beauty The Musical Creative Team

• Produced by Peoples Pre Productions
• Directed by Jill Girard
• Set Design by Grant Knottenbelt
• Costumes by Luciano Zuppa
• Choreography by Owen Lonzar
• Musical Direction by Coenraad Rall

The Kids’ Club

Children who join the Kids’ Club for just R155.00 a year receive discounted rates on tickets and also get to enjoy free entrance to the show that is allocated to their birthday month and falls closest to their birthday. Kids Club members receive fun newsletters and stand to win fabulous prizes in exciting competitions. So why not come and spend some quality time at the PEOPLES THEATRE? Come as you are, come dressed up, but whatever you do, don’t miss this exciting show!

With grateful thanks to Joburg Theatre for their wonderful support.

The post Peoples Theatre Finds Its Sleeping Beauty and Prince as Rehearsals Begin appeared first on Stage and Screen.

Johannesburg — 12 October 2026: Theatre on the Square proudly presents, by arrangement with DALRO (Pty) Limited, a revival of Tuesdays with Morrie, starring Michael Richard and Jeremy Richards.

Theatre on the Square is proud to announce that the all-time theatre favourite will be returning to its stage in a moving and inspirational revival — Tuesdays with Morrie.

The new production, an adaptation of Mitch Albom’s bestselling memoir, dramatizes the actual visits between journalist Mitch Albom and his former sociology professor, Morrie Schwartz. It is a beautiful story of friendship, love, and the lessons that matter in life.

Leading South African actor Michael Richard will star as Morrie, alongside his talented son, actor Jeremy Richard, as Mitch. A real-life father and son duo!

The brand new production will be directed by award-winning Alan Swerdlow, who also directed the acclaimed production by Theatre on the Square in 2010 with Graham Hopkins and Asher Stoltz. The set and lighting will be designed by Wilhelm Disbergen.

This intimate production promises laughter, tears and plenty of food for thought. It’s a heart-warming theatre treat about living, loving and learning — a story for everyone. The central moral of the story is that confronting your mortality helps you learn how to truly live.

Tuesdays with Morrie, the novel, has sold nearly 18 million copies globally and has been translated into 48 languages. It is one of the best-selling memoirs in the history of publishing. The stage adaptation by Mitch Albom and Jeffrey Hatcher has been playing worldwide since 2002.

Showtimes for the new production will be nightly from Tuesday to Friday at 7.30, Saturdays at 4pm and 8 pm, and Sunday matinees at 3pm. It is the perfect end-of-year entertainment filled with humour and heart to appeal to families, schools, corporates and special interest groups. Dinner/show packages can be arranged.

For further information and group booking arrangements, call Daphne Kuhn at Theatre on the Square on tell. 083 377 4969 or 011 883 8606.

For online bookings, head over to WEBTICKETS.

Production Details

Tuesdays with Morrie

• 4th – 21st November 2026
• Starring Michael Richard and Jeremy Richards
• Directed by Alan Swerdlow
• Set and lighting designed by Wilhelm Disbergen

The post Theatre on the Square Revives Tuesdays With Morrie in November appeared first on Stage and Screen.

Producers Showtime Management are proud to announce the casting of Port Elizabeth-born Belinda Davids, who has toured around the world in the highly rated The Greatest Love Of All.

THE BODYGUARD The Musical opens at Artscape in Cape Town on 12 March 2027 before transferring to the Teatro at Montecasino in Johannesburg on 24 April 2027. Tickets are on sale through Ticketmaster, the exclusive ticketing agent.

Davids, whose four-octave vocal range mirrors Houston’s – an extraordinary gift – moves from being a soloist into her first role in musical theatre as superstar singer Rachel Marron. Houston played the role in the Hollywood film, opposite Kevin Costner as Frank Farmer, the eponymous bodyguard.

The story sees fame, danger and desire collide as an unexpected romance unfolds, backed by some of Whitney Houston’s biggest hits, including “I Will Always Love You,” “I Wanna Dance with Somebody,” “Queen of the Night,” “I Have Nothing,” “Run to You” and “So Emotional.”

Belinda Davids is supremely familiar with this music through her successful performance career to date, with no less than Simon Cowell being a huge fan of her talent.

In 2020, she reached the finals of Series 14 of Britain’s Got Talent. Before her audition, on hearing that she would be covering Whitney Houston material, Cowell suggested that those would be “tough shoes to fill”.

Davids then delivered a powerful rendition of “One Moment in Time”, inspiring a standing ovation from Cowell, who commented: “That was the audition we’d been waiting for all season.”

She received similar acclaim in Spain in 2023, receiving a Golden Buzzer on Got Talent: All-Stars and advancing to the final in a moment aired on television across Europe.

As she adds acting and dancing to her repertoire in The Bodyguard, Davids will be supported by an all-South African cast, crew and band – details are soon to be announced.

Showtime Management has a record of successfully bringing musicals based on hit Hollywood films to South African stages, recently introducing local audiences to PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL and mounting a return season of the much-loved MAMMA MIA!, currently entrancing Cape Town audiences until 11 October, followed by an extended season at Montecasino’s Teatro from 16 October.

Hazel Feldman of Showtime Management is thrilled to have Belinda Davids on board as the show’s lead.

“This is such a huge, challenging vocal role, and Belinda has built a reputation around the world as one of the best in the business when it comes to giving Whitney Houston’s songs the same incredible power as the originals,” she says. “And the rest of the cast is just as exciting – watch this space!”

Belinda Davids cannot wait to follow, once again, in her heroine’s footsteps.

“I have loved Whitney Houston since I was a child, so to have this new opportunity – and fresh, exciting challenges! – is a wonderful blessing. I’m so grateful.”

The Bodyguard became the 10th highest-grossing film in history when it was released in 1992, while its soundtrack, with 45 million copies sold worldwide, became the top-selling soundtrack album ever and won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year.

“I Have Nothing” and “Run to You” were both nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Song.

The stage musical features chart-topping music, glamorous superstar energy, romance and edge-of-your-seat drama, while reviews have also praised its superb sets and spectacular design.

Early Bird Offers

Early Bird specials are available for both seasons, offering a 20% discount for Wednesday 17 March and Thursday 18 March at Artscape, Cape Town, and Wednesday 28 April and Thursday 29 April at the Teatro at Montecasino, Johannesburg.

A maximum of six tickets applies per customer, with limited Early Bird tickets available until 31 October 2026.

Only valid tickets purchased through the exclusively appointed Ticketmaster will be honoured.

The production carries a PG 12+ rating owing to adult themes, language and content. Parental guidance is advised.

Terrific Tuesday discounts are available. Terms and conditions apply. A 20% block-booking discount is offered for groups of 20 or more on selected shows for specific price categories. Contact sales@showtime.co.za.

Book today through Ticketmaster.

The post Belinda Davids Cast As Lead Role In The Bodyguard! appeared first on Stage and Screen.

Johannesburg – October 8th, 2026: Following a sold-out Cape Town season and a triumphant return to the United States of America, Janni Younge Productions’ spectacular The Firebird comes to The Teatro, Montecasino, for its Johannesburg premiere from 4th –6th December 2026.

Directed by award-winning South African puppet theatre artist Janni Younge and choreographed by acclaimed choreographer and director Jay Pather, The Firebird sets Stravinsky’s electrifying score within a contemporary South African fusion of larger-than-life puppetry and powerful dance.

At its heart is the Seeker, a young woman on a quest to unleash her creative power. Drawn into a vivid and shifting world, she encounters forces that challenge her to discover her own capacity for transformation. Towering puppet creatures, dynamic choreography and Stravinsky’s remarkable music combine in a theatrical landscape that moves between intimacy and spectacle, building towards a rousing climax as the magnificent Firebird takes flight.

First created by Younge and Pather in 2016, The Firebird has received standing ovations at major international venues including the Hollywood Bowl, Ravinia, The Mann Center and Wolf Trap.

The production returned to South Africa in 2026 for a sold-out season at the Artscape Opera House in Cape Town, followed by performances with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra in the United States. In 2027, it continues its global journey with performances in San Francisco.

Bringing The Firebird to Johannesburg

For Janni Younge, bringing the production to Johannesburg for the first time is particularly significant.

“We are enormously excited to bring The Firebird to Johannesburg,” states Younge. “This is a South African production that has travelled to some remarkable stages internationally, so there is something very special about bringing it home and sharing it with Johannesburg audiences for the first time. At its heart, it is a story about our capacity to transform, to imagine and ultimately to take flight.”

Younge describes the production as an experience that can speak across generations.

“Puppetry has this unique ability to reach adults and children simultaneously. A child can be completely absorbed by the scale, movement, creatures and sheer magic of what they are seeing, while an adult can encounter the deeper emotional journey and symbolism within the same images. The Firebird doesn’t require you to understand dance, puppetry or classical music beforehand. It invites you into an imaginative world and allows each person to encounter it in their own way.”

The Relationship Between Puppetry, Dance and Music

For choreographer Jay Pather, the relationship between puppetry, dance and Stravinsky’s complex score has been central to the evolution of the work.

“Working with Janni Younge has been both a wonderful and rare experience, bringing a clarity and confidence to the rehearsal floor. Our Firebird, responding to Stravinsky’s complex score, has brought the beautiful, enduring and moving narrative increasingly into focus. The performers, all of whom navigate both puppetry and dance, have been a joy to work with, moving from epic athleticism to the most subtle intimacies.

“The production draws from the powerful but dark forces that exist within us, below our belly, to the lighter, forgiving, sometimes naive parts that reside somewhere in our heart and chest. I loved being able to find these emotions while keeping the action and structure of the piece. The Firebird is ultimately a heart-wrenching work about the choices we face in love, in our work and in our quest for freedom. I believe audiences will be transfixed by the masterful puppetry and dance, but above all by performers who give so generously to this glorious, moving beast of a story,” says Pather.

The Performers

That generosity is embodied in a richly diverse ensemble of 15 performers, combining substantial international experience with an exciting new generation of South African artists.

Crystal Finck, who takes the central role of the Seeker, has built a wide-ranging international career across contemporary dance, musicals and film, including performances with Garage Dance Ensemble and Robin Orlin.

Elvis Sibeko, who performs the powerful role of Kashai, is the artistic director of Elvis Sibeko Studios. An accomplished choreographer, composer and director, Sibeko has worked with leading artists including Gregory Maqoma, Brett Bailey and Dizu Plaatjies, and has collaborated extensively with Younge, developing a distinctive fusion of dance and puppetry.

Equally skilled, the lead puppeteers bring a wealth of experience to the production. Siyamthanda Sinani, who manipulates the dragon with a 12-meter wingspan, was nominated for a Fleur du Cap Theatre Award for Best Supporting Actor for his work in Janni Younge’s Hamlet.

Nkosinathi Mngomezulu’s international credits include Handspring Puppet Company’s Life & Times of Michael K, the War Horse puppets and Younge’s Aci, Galatea e Polifemo, a Handel cantata choreographed by Sibeko.

Samkelo Zihlangu is a specialist puppeteer who has worked with Handspring Puppet Company’s War Horse puppets and performed in Younge’s Hamlet.

The cast also includes Jacqueline Manyaapelo, the Seeker from the original Firebird ensemble and one of Cape Town’s respected dance teachers and mentors. A former Artistic Director of Jazzart Dance Theatre and now a lecturer at UCT, Manyaapelo has helped train and nurture generations of young dancers, including Finck herself. In the 2026 version of The Firebird, that real relationship finds an echo on stage, with Manyaapelo inhabiting Bird Woman, a mentor figure to Finck’s Seeker.

The ensemble therefore unites not only established and emerging performers, but generations of artists who have taught, mentored and performed alongside one another, giving the production a depth of connection that extends beyond the stage.

The Creative Team

Janni Younge is an award-winning South African director and designer whose distinctive visual theatre practice draws on puppetry, performance and animated form. Among her honours, she was the recipient of the prestigious Standard Bank Young Artist Award for Theatre in 2010, while her productions have received numerous awards for direction, design and performance both in South Africa and internationally.

Jay Pather is a leading South African choreographer, director and curator whose practice across dance, theatre and interdisciplinary performance has been recognised nationally and internationally. Their long-standing collaboration places the physical languages of puppetry and dance in a dynamic conversation.

Described by Cathy Cahill, President and CEO of The Mann, as “an artistic triumph and game changer,” The Firebird fuses some of South Africa’s most exciting theatrical forms with one of the great orchestral scores of the twentieth century. Now, for the first time, Johannesburg audiences have the opportunity to experience this internationally celebrated South African production on home soil.

THE FIREBIRD

Teatro Montecasino, Johannesburg

4–6 December 2026

• Friday 4th December at 19h30
• Saturday 5th December at 11h00, 15h00 & 19h30
• Sunday 6th December at 11h00 & 15h00
• Tickets range from R150 – R580 per person and can be booked via Webtickets
• Early Bird Specials are available until the end of October.

There are Family Specials available throughout the season, with tickets from R150 per person when booking a minimum of four tickets. Limited seats available.

The Firebird runs for one hour in duration and is recommended for children 6 and older.

The post The Firebird Takes Flight at The Teatro, Montecasino appeared first on Stage and Screen.

This brand new production featuring the stories of acclaimed author and storyteller Dr Gcina Mhlophe runs at Peoples Theatre for a limited season until 4 October 2026. The official opening will be taking place on Saturday, 19 September.

Director Jill Girard captures the experiences of the first audiences yesterday:

“The children absolutely loved getting involved! They were quick to play multiple parts – from warriors to crocodiles to bees and more. Seeing how totally engaged they were in the telling of these wonderful African stories was so heartwarming to see, and we look forward to a wonderful season of this brand new show this Heritage Month!”

There is a special significance to bringing these vibrant narratives to life. Audiences will be treated to Dr Gcina Mhlophe’s captivating tales, including beloved classics like Golden Windows, How the Lion Got His Roar and Horns Only, alongside a dynamic selection of popular music.

These literary treasures in Imagine Africa: Our Stories Brought to Life celebrate our rich heritage and the timeless oral tradition of Africa. There is no better time than Heritage Month in September to give these literary gems the spotlight.

Brought to life through pure imagination, clever props, vibrant costumes and expertly chosen music, the production will have audiences singing along throughout the show.

An exceptional cast guides audiences into a world filled with magical wonder, rhythm, African wildlife and a delightful array of characters.

Through a signature style of theatre-in-education and active audience participation, theatre-goers do not just watch the performance; they step directly into the stories as the characters themselves.

By helping characters navigate challenges and solve problems in real time, children will learn firsthand that even the smallest heroes can make a massive impact.

This interactive experience offers profound educational benefits that champion community, language development, and teamwork, making it an unforgettable journey across the continent that will inspire the next generation of African storytellers.

Get ready to step into a world where imagination takes centre stage!

Meet the Cast

• Bethany-Joy Jiyane
• Boikie Mogorosi
• Khosi Mkhonza
• Luciano Zuppa

IMAGINE AFRICA: Our Stories Brought to Life – Creative Team

• Produced by Peoples Pre Productions
• Directed by Jill Girard
• Set Design by Grant Knottenbelt
• Costumes by Luciano Zuppa
• Choreography by Sandy Dyer Richardson
• Musical Direction by Coenraad Rall
• Publicity by Collett Dawson of The CoLab Network

Performance Information

Performances: Tuesday, 15 September – Sunday, 4 October 2026

Show times for schools are Tuesday to Friday at 09:00 and 11:00.

Show times for the public are 10:30 and 14:30 on Saturdays and Sundays and during school holidays.

Ticket Prices

R180 per person for members of the public

R145 if you are a member of the Peoples Theatre Kids Club

R155 for public accompanying members

For school group rates, please contact the theatre directly.

The Kids’ Club

Children who join the Kids’ Club for just R155.00 a year receive discounted rates on tickets and also get to enjoy free entrance to the show that is allocated to their birthday month and falls closest to their birthday.

Kids’ Club members receive fun newsletters and stand to win fabulous prizes in exciting competitions. So why not come and spend some quality time at the Peoples Theatre? Come as you are, come dressed up, but whatever you do, don’t miss Imagine Africa – Our Stories Brought to Life!

PLEASE BOOK EARLY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT

Call 011 877 6841 or email info@peoplestheatre.co.za for bookings or enquiries.

You can also book online at joburgtheatre.com or via Webtickets.

Follow Peoples Theatre

Follow Peoples Theatre on Facebook and Instagram for updates.

For interview requests, contact Collett Dawson of The CoLab Network via email.

With grateful thanks to Joburg Theatre for its continued support.

Upcoming Award for Dr Gcina Mhlophe

In October 2026, Dr Gcina Mhlophe will receive the Poetry Africa Lifetime Achievement Award at the 30th edition of their Festival.

This is to honour her for over four decades of work in South African oral tradition, literature and theatre, to be presented at the Durban Playhouse Theatre.

About Dr Gcina Mhlophe

Dr Gcina Mhlophe is a celebrated author, storyteller and the founding director of the Gcinamasiko Arts & Heritage Trust. Her works have been translated into numerous languages, including all official South African languages as well as isiSwahili, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Japanese and even Braille.

Dr Mhlophe’s accolades include a SAMA for her CD Stories of Africa, the OBBIE and Joseph Jefferson Awards in the USA, the Fringe First at the Edinburgh Festival, the MultiChoice AFRICA Legend Storyteller Award, the USIBA Cultural Legend Award, the SA Children’s Laureate Award and, most recently, the SAFTA Lifetime Achievement Award for her acting and contributions to film in South Africa.

As a leading figure in South African storytelling, her birthday, October 24, has been designated National Storytelling Day since 2019, celebrated at her own venue, The Storytelling Tree, in Durban.

The post Experience the Magic of African Storytelling Live on Stage! appeared first on Stage and Screen.

This season builds on the momentum of a compelling one-night-only interactive showcase held in East London on 22 August 2026 at Legends Showcase Exclusive Venue, where audiences were invited into an interactive theatrical experience that moved beyond passive viewing into active dialogue and reflection.

Created by theatre-maker Zimkitha Kumbaca, Confessions of a Blacklisted Woman: She Bellows remains a provocative and socially urgent work that continues to resonate deeply with contemporary audiences. Powered by the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture, this reimagined, full-length staging brings the production to life with renewed intensity, drawing audiences into the complex themes at its core.

The Alexander Playhouse season will be brought to life by a dynamic ensemble of emerging performers from the Sonwa Sakuba Institute for the Performing Arts: Zintle Mtwa, Sinenlanhla Ngema, Siphesihle Khathali, Anusha Maaotla, Ricky Ncukana, Masande Blenjana, Asibonge Mthethwa, Siyabonga Temba and Princé Jay Jacob who are given a powerful platform to engage with a significant South African theatre text. They are joined by original cast members Dineo Komane, Kgaogelo Monama and Idabeth Ranake, whose continued presence brings both continuity and depth to the production’s evolving performance journey, while introducing audiences to fresh, dynamic voices.

“I am deeply grateful for the overwhelming response and support the production has received during its first run,” says Kumbaca. “It’s been powerful to witness how audiences are connecting with the work. We now look forward to welcoming even more people to The Alexander Playhouse. I hope audiences come in their numbers to experience, engage with, and carry these conversations forward.”

Originally written by Kumbaca, the production is a sharp, satirical, and deeply unsettling exploration of Black womanhood, patriarchy, and systemic gender-based violence. Set in a haunting Doll Factory Expo, the play follows five life-sized dolls on a quest to become “real” African women, raising piercing questions: What does it take to become an African woman? And at what cost?

Through the character of the Doll Master, a symbolic and controlling force, Kumbaca exposes the pervasive voice of patriarchy, while the dolls themselves embody women navigating cycles of societal policing, submission, censorship, and identity erasure. The use of dark humour and surrealism draws audiences in, only to confront them with increasingly raw and uncomfortable truths.

The urgency of the work has only intensified over time. Originally written before widespread public discourse on gender-based violence and consent culture, the play now returns within a context where these issues remain critically unresolved across South Africa and beyond.

Audiences are invited to experience Confessions of a Blacklisted Woman: She Bellows not just as a performance, but as a space for collective engagement, critical dialogue, and reflection. Tickets are available via Webtickets.

Confessions of a Blacklisted Woman: She Bellows is more than theatre; it is a call to witness, to engage, and to act.

The post She Bellows Returns for a Powerful East London Theatre Season appeared first on Stage and Screen.

A drag queen who needs little introduction, Tollie has become one of the country’s most recognisable performers. With a personality that refuses to enter a room quietly, she has built a devoted following by owning exactly who she is, boldly, brilliantly, and with a wicked sense of humour. Now, she steps into the fantastical realm of La Dolce Royal, where she is threading her irreverent magic through the production, weaving together the show’s characters, stories and spectacular moments.

“Tollie is wonderfully outrageous with the rare ability to command a room while making everyone feel part of the joke. She is warm, naughty, and completely herself, and we love that. about her,” says Creative Director Richard Griffin.

La Dolce Royal, which opened at Melrose Arch in June this year, is the latest lavish creation from visionary producer Richard Griffin and co-directed by Craig Leo and Valentina Leo. It is a decadent feast for the senses, where the timeless enchantment of Countess Zingara collides with contemporary circque, theatrical storytelling, marvellous cuisine and world-class acts.

Housed within a plush Spiegeltent, audiences enter a dreamlike realm where music, movement, comedy and artistry shimmer together, blurring the line between fantasy and reality. And with Tollie now part of the experience, the evening delivers even more mischief, mayhem, and surprise.

La Dolce Royal runs from Tuesday to Sunday at the Melrose Arch Pavilion. Guests are encouraged to arrive from 5pm to explore the grounds, browse the Bijoux Boutique, have their tarot read or indulge in a little theatrical face painting before the show commences at 7:30pm.

Tickets start at R1,360 per person and include a welcome drink, a sumptuous four-course dinner, and the show.

End-of-year functions and special occasions are now open for bookings, with enchanting VIP experiences also available. The show carries an age restriction of PG12.

The post Tollie Parton Joins The Royal Countess Zingara appeared first on Stage and Screen.