Mzansi Unbound is a vibrant new concert celebrating the energy, versatility and boundary-crossing spirit of contemporary South African performance.

It brings together the musical excellence, movement and storytelling that have become hallmarks of the choir’s work in a programme that moves boldly across genres and traditions.

Rooted in South African musical identity yet fully alive to global influences, the production weaves together township rhythms, Gospel, Reggae, African music, global anthems and contemporary favourites in a concert experience that is unmistakably South African while having universal appeal.

Audiences can look forward to fresh Mzansi Youth Choir interpretations of iconic songs including Bohemian Rhapsody, Paradise and One Love, alongside South African favourites such as Angimbonanga and Ijele. The result is a programme that moves confidently across all genres, delivering contemporary South African sounds that are unmistakably Mzansi.

Sidumo Nyamezele, Music Director, says, “Mzansi Unbound captures the range of who we are as a choir right now — musically ambitious, proudly South African and full of energy. It’s a programme that allows us to move across styles while staying rooted in the spirit of live performance.”

“Mzansi Unbound marks an exciting new chapter for the choir — one that honours the legacy behind us while looking ahead with fresh creative energy and a deep commitment to the young artists at the heart of this work.”

Mzansi Unbound promises an unforgettable evening of music, movement and celebration from one of South Africa’s most compelling live ensembles.

Performance Details

Production: Mzansi Unbound

Dates:
Friday, 7 August 2026
Saturday, 8 August 2026

Time:
19:00

Venue:
Soweto Theatre

Tickets:
R200

Bookings:
Available through Webtickets or by contacting Soweto Theatre on 010 446 1462 or 0861 670 670.

Mzansi Unbound is presented with the valued support of BBA Liminal and the Soweto Theatre, whose partnership has helped make this production possible.

“A choir is where a community rehearses its own becoming. Anthropologists call that threshold betwixt and between — and a choir is where it’s given a shape and a sound. A held space for young voices to reach toward who they might become. That is why BBA Liminal is proud to sponsor Mzansi Unbound, this year’s concert by the Mzansi Youth Choir.” – Eben Keun, Co-founder and Chief Brand Architect, BBA Liminal.

Connect with Mzansi Youth Choir: Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube.
Bookings & Enquiries: bookings@mzansiyouthchoir.co.za

The post Mzansi Youth Choir Returns With a Powerful New Show appeared first on Stage and Screen.

Founded in 1989 and resident at Joburg Theatre since 2000, Peoples Theatre has staged over 200 productions and brought joy, magic and wonder into the lives of well over 1,2 million children since then….

And today’s special announcement is proof there’s no stopping them!

As it celebrates its 37th birthday, Peoples Theatre has unveiled an exciting milestone, securing the rights to stage the African premiere of Sleeping Beauty The Musical. The production will run from 3 November to 24 December 2026 as part of the theatre’s end-of-year season.

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.

“The show has been staged in the UK and across America, but it has never been staged in Africa… until now.

I am very excited to announce that the African Premiere Production of Sleeping Beauty The Musical will be staged at Peoples Theatre in Johannesburg, South Africa, through November and December of 2026.

Sleeping Beauty The Musical is based on the traditional fairy tale, but it has a very modern spin on the old tale.

It features all original songs and follows Princess Aurora on her journey of self-discovery. It is a heart-warming tale suitable for children from 3 to 103.

I hope you enjoy experiencing it for the first time as much as I enjoyed writing it and that the show brings a little bit of magic to you and your family.” – Ian Curran – Writer and Lyricist of Sleeping Beauty The Musical

The Disney version of Sleeping Beauty was staged at Peoples Theatre in the early 2000s, but the show has not been staged there since then, so it’s especially exhilarating for Peoples Theatre to be presenting this modern adaptation of the timeless classic, performing for a whole new generation.

“I’m absolutely excited to be directing and producing this thrilling new version of Sleeping Beauty The Musical in Johannesburg! This brand-new production is packed with laughter and magical moments, making it perfect for 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.

Interactive family fun, that’s what Peoples Theatre is all about, and we can’t wait to welcome audiences to share in the magic of this timeless fairy tale.” – Jill Girard – Producer/Director

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.

Showtimes 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!
For school group rates, contact the theatre directly.

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

The post Sleeping Beauty The Musical heads to the People’s Theatre this November appeared first on Stage and Screen.

At over 650 sqm in size, the giant inflatable park will be the first indoor activation of its kind in South Africa, bringing bouncing, climbing, crawling, sliding and racing together in one action-packed course. Open daily from 9 am to 6 pm, The Gauntlet will form the centrepiece of Fourways Mall’s winter school holiday entertainment programme, giving children, teenagers, young adults and families a fresh way to burn off holiday energy.

A Giant Challenge for the Holidays

Designed for active play and friendly competition, The Gauntlet invites visitors to take on a series of inflatable challenges as they race towards the finish line. It is the kind of activity that works just as well for siblings competing against each other, friends looking for a laugh or parents brave enough to join the action.

The experience is ideal for families and groups looking for something different during the winter break, with the added advantage of being indoors and weather-proof. With limited daily capacity, advance booking is recommended. Tickets start at R 100 per person, and are now available via Howler.

More Ways to Play, Climb, Jump and Race

Beyond The Gauntlet, Fourways Mall offers an exciting line-up of holiday attractions for toddlers, children, teenagers and adults. Families can tee off at Adventure Golf, one of Johannesburg’s most established adventure golf attractions, with three themed 9-hole courses set among waterfalls, streams, caves and landscaped gardens.

For more active play, BOUNCE INC offers freestyle jumping, dodgeball, slam dunk zones, obstacle challenges, Clip ’n Climb walls and miniBOUNCE for younger children. Total Ninja Interactive brings together movement and digital gaming through interactive projections and sensors, whereas Bloc 11 offers indoor climbing and bouldering with classes and coaching.

The Fourways Mall Ster-Kinekor includes a dedicated Kids Cinema experience where blockbuster films like Minions & Monsters and Toy Story 5 will be showing. The Fun Company offers arcade games, redemption games and 10-pin bowling, while Shooters provides a social gaming environment that is family-friendly until 6 pm.

For visitors who want more speed, skills or competition, Xtreme Go Karting delivers indoor racing, and Urban Playground brings together a skate park, e-gaming, indoor soccer and other recreational activities.

An All-In-One Holiday Outing

With so many options under one roof, families can combine The Gauntlet with lunch, a movie, bowling, go-karting, climbing or arcade games to create a full school holiday outing. Family-friendly dining options include Spur and Panarottis, both offering dedicated children’s play areas.

Fourways Mall’s extended trading hours also make holiday planning easier. Most stores are open from 9 am to 8 pm from Monday to Saturday and from 9 am to 7 pm on Sundays and public holidays. Free parking is available after 5 pm every day.

For more information, visit fourwaysmall.com or follow the mall on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X for the latest updates.

The post Families Invited to Tackle The Gauntlet at Fourways Mall This Winter appeared first on Stage and Screen.

Running from Friday 3 to Monday 13 July in the Food Court, the immersive play experience will transform this part of the mall into an interactive soccer-themed activity zone where children, teens and even competitive parents can put their skills to the test across seven exciting challenges. Open daily from 10 am to 8 pm, tickets will be available at the activation area for R50 per participant.

Visitors will stand a chance to win incredible prizes, including 1 of 5 official Bafana Bafana jerseys, 5 x R1 000 Studio 88 vouchers and spot prizes from EL&N, Honor, Lego, McDonalds, New Balance, Spur, Totalsports and Toy Kingdom. The first 100 participants through The Goal Zone will have the opportunity to customise a Krispy Kreme Original glazed doughnut.

Winter Holiday Fun with a Competitive Twist

Created as a high-energy school holiday attraction, The Goal Zone activities will include a mix of football skills, speed, coordination and playful rivalry, giving young fans the chance to celebrate the game, test their skills and soak up the excitement of the World Cup.

Whether visitors are showing off fancy footwork or simply trying something new, the experience is designed to entertain a wide range of ages, with selected challenges designed for the whole family to enjoy, while bringing a lively, sporty atmosphere to the winter break.

Visitors will be able to test their power in Speed Kick, take aim in Beat the Keeper, sharpen reaction times at the Reflex Wall, or put their accuracy to the test in Through the Hoops. Those looking for something a little different will be able to try their hand at Footgolf, challenge friends and family in Sit Down Soccer, or see how long they can keep the ball in the air during Keepie Uppies.

Created to mimic an indoor astroturf-style arena complete with playful sporting touches, The Goal Zone will bring all the excitement of a match-day atmosphere into a fun, family-friendly holiday experience.

A School Holiday Outing With Extra Energy

As cooler weather settles in, The Goal Zone will offer families an indoor activity that encourages children to stay active while adding something different to the school holiday calendar. Positioned in the heart of the mall, the football experience will also make it easy for families to pair the experience with lunch, shopping or a full day out.

Whether it is siblings competing for bragging rights, friends challenging one another to beat the leaderboard or parents quietly proving they still have a winning kick, The Goal Zone is all about getting involved, having fun and making winter holiday memories.

The Goal Zone will run from 3 – 13 July 2026 in the Mall of Africa Food Court. Tickets are available onsite for R50 per participant. For more information and regular updates on Mall of Africa, its stores and events, follow the mall on social media at Instagram: @_themallofafrica or visit the mall’s website: mallofafrica.co.za.

The post Game On: School Holiday Fun Kicks Off at Mall of Africa appeared first on Stage and Screen.

• Friday, April 30 – Cape Town at The Ostrich
• Saturday, May 1 – Johannesburg at Expo Centre at Nasrec 

PRE-SALE REGISTRATION FOR TICKETS TO ULTRA SOUTH AFRICA 2027 IS NOW OPEN

Johannesburg, 28 April 2026 | ULTRA South Africa proudly celebrated its landmark 11th edition this weekend, delivering two unforgettable days of world-class electronic music, high-energy performances, and cultural unity across Johannesburg and Cape Town.

The festival kicked off in Johannesburg on Saturday, April 25, at the Expo Centre, Nasrec, before heading to Cape Town on Sunday, April 26, at The Ostrich, transforming the long weekend into a nationwide celebration of dance music.

Fans turned out in full force for both shows, packing the venues from early afternoon through to the final beat at 2 a.m. Building on more than a decade of ULTRA South Africa legacy, the 11th edition raised the bar once again with spectacular production, immersive stage design, and a dynamic blend of international superstars and homegrown talent.

The main stage delivered one unforgettable moment after another. Multi-award-winning and platinum-record-selling artist Afrojack and Dutch DJ/producer R3hab set the tone with a high-energy back-to-back set, seamlessly blending their biggest hits and signature sounds. Swedish House Mafia icon Axwell followed with a commanding performance that balanced nostalgia with fresh energy, keeping the crowd locked in throughout.

In one of the weekend’s standout moments, French powerhouse and international superstar DJ Snake surprised fans by bringing out Zimbabwean-born artist Bantu to perform their brand-new collaboration ‘Company’ alongside a run of his global chart-topping hits. Closing the night in style, Experts Only label boss and Beatport chart-topper John Summit, fresh off the release of his album CTRL, delivered a world-class set that kept fans moving well into the early hours.

The RESISTANCE Stage maintained its reputation for deeper, darker underground sounds, led by New York house legend Dennis Ferrer and South African titan Shimza, delivering intricate sets that fused melodic techno, progressive house, and Afro-house. Full support across all stages included standout performances from Apashe, Kyle Watson, DJ Kent, TiMO ODV b2b Kyle Cassim, Indigo, Kitty Amor, Major League DJz, Caiiro b3b Enoo Napa b3b Da Capo, Mpho.Wav, Mila Rose, Baby Whitz, Headroom b2b Geometric Flux, Niskerone b2b Dakota, Kurt April, Dwson, Leighton Moody b2b Cassiem, and Roz.

A defining moment of the weekend came in Johannesburg, when Afrojack joined Shimza for a surprise back-to-back set. Fresh off their debut collaboration at Coachella, the duo delivered a genre-blending performance that captivated the crowd from start to finish.

In Johannesburg, the festival showcased four stages. Alongside the Main Stage and RESISTANCE, The Groove Room returned to celebrate the continent’s most influential sounds with a stacked Amapiano and Afrobeats lineup featuring Liquideep, Scorpion Kings, DBN Gogo, Zee Nxumalo, Oscar Mbo, Que DJ x DJ Lag, Sun-El Musician, 2shoes, Lelowhatsgood, and Slow Poison. The brand-new Confessions Stage ZA takeover of the UMF Radio Stage pushed boundaries with cutting-edge sounds from Dean Fuel, CINIMIN, Chunda Munki, Vimo, Connie, Aidin Caye, Mia, Skelm, Jevan Binder, and Threemanweave.

Now in its 11th year, ULTRA South Africa continues to evolve while staying true to its core: bringing people together through music. This year’s edition stood as a powerful celebration of culture, connection, and the growing global influence of South Africa’s electronic music scene.

2027 DATES ANNOUNCED

As the dust settles on another unforgettable edition, ULTRA South Africa has already confirmed its return in 2027 — #UltraSA2027 is coming!

Next year, ULTRA South Africa will return across two days:

• Friday, April 30, 2027 – The Ostrich, Cape Town
• Saturday, May 1, 2027 – Expo Centre, Nasrec, Johannesburg

Stay connected with ULTRA South Africa on Instagram, Facebook, and X for lineup announcements and exciting updates as the festival gears up for ULTRA South Africa 2027.

The post Ultra South Africa 2026 Showcases Global and Local DJ Powerhouses appeared first on Stage and Screen.

In the build-up to Minions & Monsters, releasing in cinemas nationwide on Friday 26 June 2026, two of the franchise’s most playful troublemakers, Henry and James, will be making a special appearance at The Magical Marble Family Fest on 9 and 10 May at James & Ethel Gray Park.

This marks their debut appearance in Gauteng, giving fans an early taste of the fun ahead. Expect plenty of laughs, a little chaos and the kind of cheeky playfulness that only the Minions can get away with.

The pair will be based at the Minions hangout near the amazing Magical Marble Family Fest double-decker carousel, where festivalgoers can meet them between 11 AM and 6 PM on both days. It is a chance to step into their world for a moment, snap a photo and enjoy the playful spirit they are known for. The first day of the festival is already sold out, and with Henry and James in the mix, the weekend promises to be jam-packed with magical mischief.

Taking the Fun Across the Country

After their Johannesburg appearance, Henry and James will embark on a nationwide tour from Friday, 26 June onwards, bringing the Minions experience to malls and cinemas around South Africa.

In Gauteng, they will visit Eastgate, Mall of Africa, Menlyn Park, The Glen, The Grove and The Zone @ Rosebank. The Western Cape will see appearances at Blue Route, Canal Walk, Somerset Mall, Tyger Valley and V & A Waterfront. In KwaZulu-Natal, fans can catch them at Cornubia, Gateway, Galleria and Pavilion, while Mpumalanga will host them at Ilanga Mall, and Limpopo at Mall of the North.

Minions & Monsters continues the story of the world’s most loveable troublemakers, taking them on a new adventure filled with big personalities and unexpected twists. What begins as a quest for movie stardom quickly unravels into full-blown chaos, as the Minions accidentally unleash a wave of monsters onto the world. It is then up to them to pull together, face the mayhem they have created and attempt to save the day in their own wonderfully unpredictable way.

From The Magical Marble Family Fest to the big screen, Henry and James are ready to bring their unmistakable brand of fun to fans across the country.

The post Minions Set to Cause Mayhem at the Magical Marble Family Fest appeared first on Stage and Screen.

Johannesburg, 15 April 2026 | As anticipation builds for ULTRA South Africa, globally celebrated DJ and producer Kitty Amor is gearing up to deliver a set that promises to be as powerful as it is deeply rooted in the culture that helped shape her sound.

Ahead of the festival, Kitty speaks about her deep connection to South Africa, tailoring her sets for local crowds, her latest single, and what fans can expect when she takes over the ULTRA stage later this month.

We’re so excited about your upcoming ULTRA South Africa performance. How excited are you to perform to South African fans this month?

“South Africa is like a second home to me, as I have spent the last 8 years travelling to the country for shows, in addition to absorbing and learning the ever-evolving musical landscape of the country. Being able to perform for South African fans is a true honour, as I always feel inspired by their infectious energy and zest for music.”

How differently do you prepare a Kitty Amor show for a London-based crowd, for example, than a South African-based one?

“I always take it back to the foundation and its roots when I am preparing to play for a South African crowd. Paying homage to the early years of electronic music and how the country helped shape what is globally recognised as Afro House today. London receives an educational approach from me, where South Africa receives acknowledgement and respect.”

There are many African influences in your music. Where did you initially fall in love with these elements?

“Although I learned about the music through my own research and was pulled into the sound whilst I was in university in London, I fell in love with it on a deeper level when I first visited Johannesburg 8 years ago. Seeing how Electronic Music is deeply ingrained in the daily lives of South African people was so breathtaking. That trip forever changed the relationship I have with African Electronic Music for sure.”

ULTRA South Africa audiences are known for their energy and diversity. How does that kind of crowd influence the way you approach your set?

“It is always interesting learning the different points of entry that the South African audience has with my sets or music. The diversity in my fanbase across Johannesburg and Cape Town speaks for itself, however, the crowd really do give me the freedom in artistic flow and allows me to sonically take them on a journey.”

Electronic music is constantly evolving. How do you stay inspired and continue pushing your sound forward?

“Travelling worldwide, spreading the music allows me to remain inspired. Different countries absorb different facets of Afro House or African Electronic Music, therefore it is important to keep an ear to the ground to learn what works where and what form of education you can provide to best connect with their local audience.”

Tell us a little bit about your new single ‘Mean 2 Me’ with Skyla Tylaa and Ruger.

“It’s dope! The track came about from an impromptu studio session with Skyla Tylaa and Ruger. I learned a lot from Ruger as I was inspired by how he comes up with melodies and his confidence in his songwriting skills. I wanted to give Skyla an element of Afro House whilst taking a commercial approach that comfortably leans into the Afrobeat and Amapiano sounds.”

Can you give us a hint of what fans can expect from your ULTRA set?

“Immense energy, intensity and a deeply rooted audio journey is what people can expect from me. Keeping Afro House at the core, however, taking fans on a journey from its tribal roots to the modern-day melodic and techno influences is important for me. People should just expect to dance nonstop as I know I will be.”

What else do you have up your sleeve for the remainder of 2026?

“Not one to speak too much on what is ahead, as I love to allow the universe to open me up to all good things. However, speaking intentionally, there is A LOT of music to come this year. I am remarkably increasing my solo output as I’ve struck a good balance between touring and studio sessions. More headline shows worldwide, as well as South Africa, and I will continue to curate my own parties at important musical events such as ADE.”

Tickets Selling Fast

As excitement for the 11th edition of ULTRA South Africa builds, tickets have been selling fast, and Ultranauts are encouraged to get their tickets before they sell out.

ULTRA SOUTH AFRICA 2026 TICKETING INFO

Don’t miss out—tickets are selling fast! Secure yours before prices increase.

• General Access: From R1,095 (limited availability)
• VIP: From R2,500 (limited availability)
• VVIP (Johannesburg only): From R5,500
• For those wanting to elevate their ULTRA South Africa experience and book an exclusive VVIP table, please email tables@ultrasouthafrica.com

Tickets are on sale now at Ultra South Africa.

Stay connected with ULTRA South Africa on Instagram, Facebook, and X.

The post Kitty Amor Promises Fans A Deeply Rooted Audio Journey At ULTRA South Africa This Year appeared first on Stage and Screen.

Across a tightly curated week, creators, cultural leaders, media voices, and corporate decision-makers gathered to explore a pressing truth: creativity is no longer a peripheral conversation—it is an economic engine. CWA positioned itself at the centre of this evolution, convening honest, strategic dialogue on how culture drives growth, relevance, and long-term value in a global market increasingly shaped by African influence.

Where Culture Meets Strategy

At the heart of CWA is a clear belief: culture and commerce are no longer parallel tracks. The 2026 edition leaned decisively into this intersection, balancing artistic integrity with business sustainability. With the inclusion of international voices such as Leila Fataar, Andrew Nocker, and Sean Brown, the platform underscored Africa’s growing role not as an emerging market, but as an active contributor shaping global creative economies.

Conversations That Moved the Industry Forward

Rather than surface-level inspiration, CWA’s panels focused on lived realities and practical insight. Discussions spanned art, design, music, and corporate culture—interrogating ownership, authorship, and longevity. A standout all-female music panel reframed influence beyond charts, while the corporate conversation addressed a growing boardroom reality: culture is no longer a branding layer, but a strategic driver of growth and connection.

A Holistic View of Creative Sustainability

Beyond dialogue, CWA embraced the human side of creativity. The week opened with a VSC® x Rexona x
CR8TOR WEEK AFRICA community run in Sandton, blending wellness, community, and brand purpose, and closed with a Wellness Reset in partnership with the Remi Foundation—reinforcing that balance and sustainability are central to long-term creative success.

More Than Dialogue: A 360° Cultural Experience

While CWA 2026 was anchored in rigorous conversation, it was equally a celebration of creativity in motion. The week unfolded as a fully immersive cultural experience, where running activations, pilates and wellness sessions, curated parties, DJs, music, and considered food and beverage moments became connective tissue between ideas and people. These experiences weren’t peripheral; they were intentional spaces for exchange, collaboration, and community. In bringing together movement, sound, taste, and dialogue, CR8TOR WEEK AFRICA delivered a truly 360-degree ecosystem of conversation—one that reflected how culture is lived, not just discussed.

Building Platforms, Not Moments

Founder Jay Kayembe has consistently framed CR8TOR WEEK AFRICA as more than an event. It is a meeting point, where ideas turn into collaborations and conversations translate into measurable impact. That ethos was evident not only in the programming, but in the intentional design of the room and the cross-sector leaders it attracted, leading with stated ‘Our focus isn’t trends, its craft, CWA is here to document the innovators, cr8tors, thinkers and cultural architects, the platform champions work that means something, voices that move the conversation forward.’

As Africa’s creative industries continue to scale across fashion, music, design, film, and digital culture, platforms like CWA are helping move the sector from visibility to value. CR8TOR WEEK AFRICA 2026 delivered a clear message: Africa’s creative economy is no longer asking for a seat at the table; it is building its own and inviting the world to engage on new terms.

Looking into 2027, CWA’s influence is set to extend far beyond, continuing to bridge conversations across creative and business culture, on the continent and globally.

The post CR8TOR Week Africa 2026: Bridging Culture and Commerce appeared first on Stage and Screen.

Hosted in collaboration with the Johannesburg Succulent Society, the show reflects the shared passion for cultivating knowledge, encouraging conservation and celebrating South Africa’s rich indigenous plant life. Visitors are invited to wander, pause and engage with plants that thrive quietly yet confidently, often in the most unexpected spaces.

Plants With Personality

The show will take place on the centre’s lower level, close to Pick n Pay. From sculptural succulents to interesting cacti, the displays will showcase the natural diversity of these living collections.

Each section has been thoughtfully curated to spark ideas and show how greenery can bring calm, texture and colour into everyday environments, whether in a small apartment or a larger home.

Shared knowledge and Thoughtful Finds

Throughout the weekend, visitors will have the opportunity to engage directly with knowledgeable growers and succulent specialists, asking questions, exchanging ideas, and picking up practical advice on plant care and cultivation. With experts on hand throughout the show, there will be plenty of scope to learn more about caring for succulents, discover new growing techniques, and deepen an appreciation for these remarkable plants through informal conversations and shared experience. A selection of local suppliers will also be available, offering a wide variety of succulents for those looking to take a piece of the show home with them.

The Succulent Show will be open from 9 AM to 5 PM on Saturday, 28 March and from 9 AM to 3 PM on Sunday, 29 March. Entrance is free. With ticketless parking available, Bedford Shopping Centre once again offers a welcoming setting for a show that continues to grow in popularity. The centre is also home to numerous dining and entertainment offerings, making it the perfect spot for a family day out.

For more information about the Bedford Succulent Show, visit Bedford Shopping Centre’s website or follow @bedfordcentre on social media for updates.

The post The Succulent Show Returns to Bedford in 2026 appeared first on Stage and Screen.

Here’s what you need to know:

WHAT’S NEW AND UNMISSABLE

• NAG Retro LAN: A plug-and-play throwback zone – no rigs needed. Comes with meals, gear, gifts, and exclusive seating inside the BYOC. Get your tickets here from NAG
• zaLUG Live Build: Help build a 9,023-piece LEGO Star Wars Death Star
• Alien: Earth – Disney Activation: Explore a crashed spaceship in a dark walkthrough with surprise moments and atmospheric effects
• Lightsaber-Building Workshop: Star Wars fans can assemble their own sabers with cosplay guides and an expanded parts range

COMPETE, CHALLENGE AND WIN

• Win an iPhone 17 in the Call of Duty Mobile Arena by Carry1st — global first play of DMZ Mode
• Beat the pros in the “Challenge the Pro” zone and join daily King of the Hill battles with 5FM
• Set the fastest lap on the Kyalami circuit in the Project Motor Racing sim at Koodoo’s stand — prize: VEX Smart Glasses worth R5,000
• Escape to win with Hashtag Escapes’ mini escape rooms — top times win trophies, LEGO art, and vouchers
• Join the Monster Hot Laps Challenge, top the leaderboard, and score free merch daily
• Show off your skills in ACGL’s fighting cups, EAFC matches, and daily racing tournaments
• Snap to win: take a selfie at PXR to score anime figurines or enter Royal Ink’s tattoo competition (R6,000 value)
• Daily LEGO build challenges in the LEGO scratch patch
• Bouldering Competition: Pull up, chalk up and show your strength at Bloc11 – tap the boulder and win prizes

WHAT TO PLAY

• Battlefield 6 Free-to-Play Zone (NAG Stand): Test the latest Battlefield title and relive the nostalgia of Battlefield 1942
• Carry1st COD Mobile Arena: Global first! Play the new DMZ mode before anyone else
• VR and Sim Rigs Everywhere: Join Apex in the Razer zone for 1v1 battles and the Turtle Beach zone to try racing and flight simulators; visit BT Games for their biggest expo showing to date with activations, simulators and builds; Citroën, and Monster racing setups—most have prizes for leaderboard winners
• Play local indie games in Home_Coded, including chaotic chickens (Mighty Peckers) and the horror-action epic OMEN and more
• Try the ROG Ally X and Rokid AR glasses at NAG’s demo zones
• Experience cloud gaming and 120” floating displays with Viture One AR Glasses from PDC
• Test the latest peripherals from Razer, TITAN, Redragon, and Turtle Beach

WHAT TO WIN

• Golden Ticket Giveaway (NAG): Each NAG Magazine could score you a modded MSI PC worth R45,000
• Anime Figurine Vouchers (PXR): Pre-show and post-show R1,000 giveaways. Take a selfie at the stand to enter
• Tattoos Worth R6,000: Snap a pic at Royal Ink and enter to win a full-day session
• Find the Character (Citroën): Spot the unique graphic on the Citroën wrap to win a car hamper
• Instant-win prizes at BT Games, NAG, Apex, and Monster
• Daily raffles and surprise merch drops
• CineCentre movie tickets, Evetech bundles, and signed comics at Anime After Hours

COSPLAY, ANIME, ART AND CULTURE

• Join over 60 artists in Artist Alley — from tattoos and trinkets to commissions and crafts
• Explore the Anime After Hours stage: J-pop/K-pop idols, quizzes, karaoke, and fan art
• Witness the cosplay showdowns on stage — novice and expert competitions, photo challenges, and kid-friendly parades

STREAM, SOCIALISE AND SHOW OFF

• Go live with SPACE.tm’s TikTok booth: creator-style sets, livestreams, and podcast interviews all weekend
• Catch 5FM’s live broadcasts with Lula Odiba and Harrison Mkhize direct from the expo floor
• Hang in the Mettlestate Lounge with free coffee, fragrance giveaways, and gaming pods
• Step into the Smash Room, and blow off steam

WHAT TO LEARN AND SEE

• Anime Industry Panels: Learn about global licensing and study and careers in Japan from JETRO, StyIP, and the Japanese Embassy
• Home_Coded Indie Zone: Meet South African game devs, test unreleased builds and score demo access before public release

SHOW SPECIALS

• The VanguardPC x Takealot stand is bringing serious gaming firepower with next-gen hardware, custom-built rigs, and exclusive show-only deals offering up to 40% off select gear. There will also be a full lineup of prebuilt and custom gaming rigs ranging from R16,999 to R89,999. Whether upgrading or building from scratch, it’s the ultimate chance to gear up for less
• BT Games will have a host of exclusive rAge Expo-only deals available at their stand. Don’t miss out – once they’re gone, they’re gone

AND ESPORTS?

• Call of Duty Finals – Powered by Monster
  Game: Call of Duty Black Ops 7
  • SA’s top 4 CoD teams invited
  • Grand final on Sunday
• Varsity Esports Finals
  Games: EA Sports FC25, Rocket League, Valorant
  • R90,000 in prize money
  • University teams from across SA
• Mamelodi Sundowns Championship
  Game: FC26
  • R200,000 prize pool
  • Qualifiers held at Puma stores + online
• Kasi Flare 2025
  Game: EA Sports FC25
  • R60,000 prize pool
  • Showcases grassroots township gaming talent
• Mastercard Nedbank Summoner Tournament
  Game: League of Legends
  • R100,000 prize
  • Grand Final on Sunday
• RGB Gaming Schools and Student Tournaments
  Games: Minecraft, Rocket League, The Finals, Overwatch 2
  • 162 students, 32 schools, 5 new champions
• Challenge the Pro and King of the Hill Zone (5FM × Goliath Gaming)
  • Daily face-offs against Goliath Gaming pros
  • Public bragging rights and prize giveaways
• ACGL Fighting Cups and EAFC Matches
  • Fighting game tournaments + football matches
  • Public competitions with daily prizes

TICKETS

Get yours now via Howler

📍 5–7 December 2025
📍 Fourways Mall Level 8, Johannesburg
📍 rageexpo.co.za.

The post rAge Expo 2025 – All you need to know appeared first on Stage and Screen.