The theatre scene in Joburg offers diverse productions, including solo dramas, political satire, and family fantasies.
'Once Upon a Teacup' Production
Acclaimed actress Jessica Haynes, previously known for working with John Malkovich in the film 'Disgrace', has returned to the stage with her solo performance 'Once Upon a Teacup'. This 70-minute production, which received high praise at last year's Hilton Arts Festival, is written and performed by Haynes herself, with direction by James Cunningham.
The plot centers on a young girl named Violet who grows up in Africa and contemplates the complexities of the modern world through the lens of her childhood imagination. Haynes explains that the play begins on a farm in KZN and explores the power of imagination and how it is influenced by pop culture, social media, and the pressure of growing up.
The actress notes that Violet's mental health deteriorates, leading her into a dark and unpredictable state, but she is then saved by the idea of home and childhood memories. She hopes the story will awaken in everyone the ability to play, create, and fully immerse themselves in the world of imagination, which is often blurred by the speed of adult life. The show runs at the Theatre on the Square in Sandton until August 2nd at 7:30 PM.
Return of 'Woza Albert!'
The production 'Woza Albert!', created by Mbongeni Ngema, Percy Mtwa, and Barney Simon, was first staged in this same venue in 1981. It is a blend of sharp satire and frightening truth, exploring the hypothetical return of Moren in racist and oppressive apartheid South Africa.
As part of the theatre's 50th anniversary celebration, this iconic production returns to the Market Theatre for a limited two-week period. Tulanie Mtsveni and Hamilton Dlamini, who also serves as director, participate in it. The actors skillfully switch between characters to convey the daily lives of Black people under apartheid.
Artistic Director Greg Homann emphasized that 'Woza Albert!' is an integral part of The Market Theatre's DNA, as it was created here in the early years of the theatre and is considered one of the foundational works that shaped both the scene and the history of South Africa over the past five decades. The return of this work serves as a reminder of the nation's origins and how it continues to evolve. The production is available at Barney Simon, Market Theatre, until August 2nd at 7:00 PM.
Family Fantasy 'Aladdin'
The family show 'Aladdin' is designed for the enjoyment of young audiences. It tells the story of the chaos caused by Aladdin's eccentric mother, Twanky, and his thief brother. Aladdin's life improves after he finds a mysterious lamp from which a luxurious genie emerges.
Aladdin embarks on an exciting adventure with an indispensable new friend who helps him fulfill three wishes. Simultaneously, he tries to win the princess's heart while thwarting the schemes of an evil sorcerer. This production takes place at DRAMA at SA State Theatre in Pretoria and runs until August 9th; showtimes vary.
