The Centurion Theatre’s 2026 Lineup
Scenario Productions has announced its 2026 theatre season at Centurion Theatre, unveiling a bold, ambitious programme that reinforces its long-term commitment to artist development, large-scale theatrical productions, national touring and the strengthening of South Africa’s live performance ecosystem.
Presented under the banner “Dreaming Bigger, Continuing the Magic — World-Class Theatre in the Heart of the Community,” the 2026 season reflects a clear strategic intent: to grow audiences while building a sustainable theatre industry.
From enchanting children’s theatre and youth-driven musical productions to the return of a major Broadway blockbuster, the lineup balances accessibility with artistic ambition. The season is anchored by two flagship productions: Hairspray – The Broadway Musical and Peter Pan Jr.
“Every year we ask ourselves how we can raise the bar,” says executive producer Tiaan Kirsten-Lubbe. “In 2026, we’re doing exactly that—dreaming bigger, continuing the magic, maintaining momentum and building on an enduring vision. This is not only about unforgettable productions and showcasing exceptional talent, both emerging and established. It is about creating experiences that remain with audiences long after the curtain falls. That is what theatre does best.”
Hairspray – The Broadway Musical
23 October – 7 November 2026
In October 2026, Scenario Productions returns Hairspray to the professional stage at the Centurion Theatre for the first time in more than a decade.
Set in 1960s Baltimore, the high-energy musical follows Tracy Turnblad as she dances her way onto national television while challenging deeply rooted social barriers. Featuring a Tony Award-winning score, explosive choreography and enduring themes of inclusion and visibility, Hairspray positions itself as one of the defining theatrical events of the year.
“Hairspray is not simply a feel-good musical,” Kirsten-Lubbe says. “It is about visibility. It is about voice. Its themes remain relevant globally. Bringing this production back to a South African stage after more than a decade is both a privilege and a statement of intent.”
The production reunites the creative team behind Cabaret (2024) and Sweeney Todd – The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2025), signalling renewed confidence in large-scale musical theatre.
The full cast will be announced in July 2026.
Peter Pan Jr. — Scenario Youth Production
Auditions: 21 March 2026
Performances: 13–15 August 2026
This internationally celebrated musical takes flight as Scenario’s annual youth production, performed by the young artists of Scenario Youth.
Peter Pan Jr. forms part of the company’s broader mandate to train and showcase emerging talent within a professional production framework.
“You do not build an industry by waiting for talent to appear,” says executive producer Lian Sachse. “You build it by giving young performers real stages, real standards and real responsibility. This production is part of that vision.”
Open auditions for Grades 4–12 will take place on 21 March 2026, with registrations opening on 23 February 2026.
“We are looking for dedicated young performers with strong vocal ability, confidence and a genuine passion for theatre,” Sachse says. “This is youth musical theatre with scale, discipline and meaningful stage experience.”
Registration opens on 23 February 2026 at scenarioproductions.co.za or via email at info@scenarioproductions.co.za.
The Adventures of Pinocchio
28 & 31 March 2026
Return Season: 10–11 July 2026
Adventure begins with a single wish.
In 2026, Scenario Productions presents a vibrant new stage adaptation of The Adventures of Pinocchio, an imaginative and energetic family production designed to engage first-time theatre audiences and seasoned theatre-goers alike.
When Geppetto’s wish is granted, and a wooden puppet springs to life, Pinocchio embarks on a journey filled with circus encounters, risky detours and choices with real consequences. His story becomes one of transformation, exploring integrity, courage and what it truly means to become “real.”
The production is created by the team behind sold-out children’s successe,s including Goldilocks – Fairy Tale Detective, Adventures of Oz and Jack and the Beanstalk – The Pantomime, continuing Scenario’s focus on elevating children’s theatre through strong visual storytelling and purposeful narratives.
Hansel & Gretel
1–2 April 2026
Return Season: 3–4 July 2026
Scenario reimagines the classic fairytale with a contemporary twist. In this interpretation, Hansel and Gretel’s mother guards a legendary secret recipe—and the Witch wants it. Not the children. The recipe.
Fast-paced, humorous and layered with music and theatrical precision, the production offers suspense and family-friendly entertainment with a modern edge.
Touring and Educational Productions
Scenario’s original production, Ingrid – A Flame in the Snow, continues its national tour in 2026 following sold-out seasons across the country, with confirmed appearances at the Oppiwater Arts Festival and the Clarence Arts Festival. Additional tour dates will be announced.
In partnership with the ATKV, Scenario also presents B Is for Bully, an original educational production addressing bullying. The production will tour schools nationally and appear at the Innibos Arts Festival, extending the company’s impact beyond the theatre space and into communities nationwide.
A Growing Theatre Ecosystem
The 2026 season reflects Scenario Productions’ continued evolution as a production house and creative ecosystem, balancing large-scale musical theatre, nationally touring original works and structured youth development.
“Our objective has always extended beyond individual productions,” the executive team says. “We are building an ecosystem—where young audiences grow into performers, performers grow into professionals, and professional work reaches far beyond our walls.”
Tickets for all productions go on sale on 20 February 2026.
Bookings via: centurionteater.co.za | scenarioproductions.co.za
2026 Production Timeline
- The Adventures of Pinocchio
28 & 31 March 2026 - Hansel & Gretel
1–2 April 2026 - Hansel & Gretel (Return Season)
3–4 July 2026 - The Adventures of Pinocchio (Return Season)
10–11 July 2026 - Peter Pan Jr.
13–15 August 2026 - Hairspray – The Broadway Musical
23 October – 7 November 2026
As theatre companies increasingly compete for attention in a crowded cultural economy, the question is not whether ambition matters—but whether audiences are ready to support institutions that invest in both scale and substance. In 2026, will Centurion’s community rise to meet that vision?