There is a lot to be excited about this year as the City of Johannesburg’s theaters will be unpacking world-class entertainment in the next few months. Joburg Theatre, Soweto Theatre and Roodepoort Theatre will present returning and new audiences with an immersive encounter of stage productions from major musicals, drama, to opera productions.

One of the most exciting plays is August Wilson’s Fences directed by Ricardo Khan, which is expected to take the audience on a perspective of evolving African American experience, race relations and other themes that resonate with what South Africa experienced during apartheid.

“I’m very excited to be directing this stellar cast and look forward to playing to Joburg audiences. Rehearsals are on track with the cast in high spirit as we prepare to start previews on the second of February and an official opening on the fifth of February,” says Khan.

Unfortunately, the star of the show, veteran actor John Kani, had to withdraw at the last minute due to ill health. 

Another play at the Joburg Theatre starts on 4 February and features the exceptional work of musician and producer Billy Monama in collaboration with SAMPRA in Back To The Future, which reflects on Monama’s musical journey and looking into the future.

In March, Dr Sipho Ngwenya will do a live recording of his fifth Intimate Worship series at Soweto Theatre featuring Keke Phoofolo, Vuyo Mathumbu, Musawenkosi Vilakazi and Nomfusi.

A show set against the themes of spirituality MOYA Consociates directed by prolific artistic director and choreographer Gregory Maqoma will be staged at the iconic Mandela Stage from 3 to 5 March 2023.

Soweto Spiritual Singers perform will also take the audiences on a spiritual journey in celebration of diverse spiritual songs and those that represents South African spirit to the world.

After a successful performance in 2022, the return of the International Music Sensation by Belinda David’s  will yet again transport the audience on a journey of experiencing Whitney Houston’s greatest hits from 22 August to 19 September.

Joburg Theatre CEO Xoliswa Ngema says they are pleased to see growth in theatre spaces after technical equipment contributed to creative ways of telling authentic stories in theatre. 

“We look forward to opening the doors this year as we unlock 2023 with thrilling and captivating theatre productions,” she adds.