Mzansi Theatre Review

The cast of pantomime, Pinocchio, on stage at the Joburg Theatre. Credit: enroC  If you heard loud laughter, saw a suspicious number of pointy noses, or spotted a grown adult arguing with a cricket this weekend, don’t panic— Pinocchio has officially returned to Joburg Theatre, and the city may never recover. South Africa’s most cherished holiday theatre tradition is back, brighter and more mischievous than ever. Legendary theatre maker Janice Honeyman returns for her 38th annual pantomime, bringing an all-new, laugh-loaded production of Pinocchio . This year’s production is a spectacular carnival of stagecraft—packed with music, dance, circus magic, puppet shows, techno-trains, pirate ships, and an unforgettable cast of characters. From the gentle Papa Geppetto to the mischievous Pussy Galore and the wise, ever-patient Jiminy Cricket, audiences will journey alongside Pinocchio through wonder, temptation and transformation. The holiday favourite has burst back onto the stage in a s...

Multi-talented artist, Lerato Mvelase, performing music from the Sophiatown era during the Jazz, Thearre and the Spirit of Sophiatown, which primiered at the Market Theatre on Tuesday. Picture: Supplied When dance icon Gregory Maqoma announced his retirement in 2023, many, including myself, felt a pang of sadness. The stage would lose his magnetic presence, his artistry that had, for years, redefined the boundaries of dance. Yet, in one of our conversations, Maqoma revealed his deeper calling: to return to his first love, nurturing the next generation of talent. That promise was fulfilled in his latest world-class production, Jazz, Theatre and the Spirit of Sophiatown , which premiered at the Market Theatre on Tuesday, September 16. It reminded us, once again, why Maqoma remains in a league of his own. " It’s about the memories. It’s about the movement, and it’s about the meaning." This one-night-only production was specially curated as a prelude to the 2025 Standard Bank Joy...

Veteran actor Themba Ndaba plays the lead in "Breakfast with Mugabe" at The Market Theatre. Picture: Ngoma. Robert Mugabe, the former President of Zimbabwe, is perhaps one of the most polarising political figures of recent African history. His journey from an esteemed independence leader to a controversial tyrant is a story interwoven with policy, power struggles, and persistent criticism. Mugabe's legacy remains a topic of vigorous debate, especially when scrutinised through the lens of Western perspectives that often found him more enigmatic than amenable. Inspired by accounts that Mugabe once privately consulted a white psychiatrist, Breakfast with Mugabe is a fictionalised narrative that weaves a compelling dialogue between the fictional Dr Andrew Peric and the formidable Mugabe. This striking production marks a significant moment for multitalented director Calvin Ratladi, the 2025 Standard Young Artists Award winner for Theatre, as he steps into new creative realms...

Aldo Brincat performing his solo production at The Market Theatre, The Moon Looks Delicious From Here. Picture: Hoek Swaratlhe In a vibrant celebration of storytelling, the highly anticipated theatre production The Moon Looks Delicious From Here made its debut at The Market Theatre last week, captivating audiences with its moving exploration of identity, heritage, and sexuality.  This acclaimed piece has garnered attention both locally and internationally, drawing theatre enthusiasts into the intricate tapestry woven by renowned actor Aldo Brincat, who channels his personal experiences as a first-generation South African amidst the political upheaval of the 70s and 80s. Directed by the talented Sjaka Septembir, this multi-award-winning production juxtaposes profound contemporary themes with Brincat’s emotional depth and distinct narratorial flair, set against a backdrop of South Africa’s tumultuous history. The addition of soulful music composed by celebrated singer-songwriter Bon...