From gripping South African drama to global musical favourites, theatre lovers have a strong lineup to choose from in Johannesburg and Cape Town this holiday season.
Man with No Surname – Joburg Theatre
Starring Bonko Khoza and Phakamisa Zwedala, Man with No Surname is a powerful new South African stage production written by veteran creator Mfundi Vundla and directed by acclaimed theatre director James Ngcobo.
A man in search of kinship and a place to call home loses his moral centre after the woman he loves falls prey to a sexual predator. MAN WITH NO SURNAME resonates with the call for moral rectitude by the people of South Africa. A powerful, intimate play about Thabo, a doctor and former freedom fighter Moruti, a writer returning from exile in America. Set against the ocean and brought to life with jazz, classical music, and ancestral presence, the story explores memory, identity, masculinity, and the lasting impact of political struggle.
Now showing at Joburg Theatre, the play has been praised for its strong performances and emotionally charged storytelling.
Pretty Woman: The Musical – Artscape, Cape Town
At the Artscape Theatre Centre, audiences can catch the stage adaptation of the beloved Hollywood classic Pretty Woman.
Based on the iconic 1990 film starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, Pretty Woman: The Musical brings the Cinderella-style romance of Vivian Ward and Edward Lewis to the stage. The story follows Vivian, a spirited young woman navigating survival in Los Angeles, whose chance encounter with a wealthy businessman changes both their lives in unexpected ways.
Featuring music by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance, the production delivers a lively score packed with emotional solos and big ensemble numbers, combining nostalgia, humour, and high-energy choreography.
The all-South African cast includes standout performances from award-winning theatre talent, adding local depth to an international favourite. Audiences have responded strongly, with tickets selling fast for the Cape Town run until 19 March.
Produced by Showtime Management in association with Crossroads Live North America, the production carries a PG 12 rating due to mature themes and is recommended for older audiences.
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