The attractive Soweto Theatre, which boasts state-of-the-art architecture with its three gleaming cubes, one red, blue, and yellow, is situated in the heart of the emerging Jabulani commercial node.

In its 10-year history, the Soweto Theatre has hosted legends in the arts, including Yvonne Chaka-Chaka, Sello Maake-ka-Ncube, Hugh Masekela, Blondie Makhene, Sipho HotStix Mabuse, the award-winning Zakes Bantwini, Thandiswa Mazwai, Mzwakhe Mbuli, Sibongile Khumalo, and many more.

The adaptation of Es’Kia Mphahlele’s “The Suitcase” was the first play to be staged under the direction of South African stage, television, and film director and actor, James Ngcobo. The first musical performance to bring the Soweto Theatre stage to life was an offering by South African artists Gloria Bosman and Concord Nkabinde, followed by Malian singer-songwriter Salif Keita.

The theatre is now set to mark its 10th anniversary with an array of special insights into the history of this monumental theatre. Festivities will begin on Friday, May 27 with the Soweto Comedy Festival, which will keep audiences in stitches with performances by J-Boogy, Pele-Pele, Kedibone Mulaudzi, and Zicco Sithole.

Saturday, 28 May will experience the Africa Day Groove festival with performances by Sjava, Nomfundo Moh, Peanut Butter and Jam, Malcom Jiyane, BCUC, and Crazey Black Dudes, The Brothers Move On, Nathi B, DJ Mofaya and many more.

Performances will close on a major note on Sunday, 29 May with Soweto’s most loved Seven Colours’ Sunday event. Locals are invited to visit the theatre to feed their senses with flavoursome food, aromas, music, as well as arts and crafts, as the theatre delivers a delightful celebration.

Vincent Motau, the Soweto Theatre’s General Manager, says the festivities are designed to celebrate African heritage.

“As we celebrate a decade, we invite everyone to play a role. By working together, we can improve professional development and opportunities for artists, promote quality and shared values across the arts spectrum, and create the conditions within which change can continue to take place on the continent,” Motau notes.

Since its inception, the Soweto Theatre has evolved into a cultural complex that includes theatre, music, poetry, dance, and allied arts. Today, it remains at the forefront of the South African entertainment landscape, actively encouraging new works that continue to reach international stages.

The theatre has dedicated celebrations beyond May, with productions and events lined up, including Hophethehile (Clap & Tap), In His Presence with Benjamin Dube, a Soweto Uprising Production – Insights Innovation 16 June 1976, and the Soweto Theatre Music Tuition Programme Showcase.

Other productions on the theatre’s annual calendar include the Holiday Fun Fest, Her Story International Festival, the 2022 Cultural Festival, and the Soweto Economy Acceleration Summit, amongst others. All upcoming productions are carefully selected to commemorate certain themed events within the year and to celebrate the theatre’s 10th anniversary.

“The potential for the creative industry to contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s economy through tourism and direct job creation is immense. The City of Joburg is playing its part in reviving the cultural industry that was hit heavily by the Covid-19 pandemic,” says Councillor Ronald Harris, the Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Development.

Motau says the Soweto Theatre will continue to be an art space that is engaging, inspiring, and entertaining while contributing to the growth of creatives, artists, entrepreneurs, and innovators.

For more information on the 10th-anniversary celebration, go to https://www.sowetotheatre.com/ or call 0861 670 670 for tickets.

Written by Bongiwe Radebe
26.5.2022