July is Peoples Theatre’s birthday month! And they have exciting news!
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