Woza Albert! Returns to the Market Theatre Where It First Made History |
One of South Africa's most influential plays returns to the stage where it first premiered, giving audiences the chance to experience a landmark production that remains as powerful today as it was more than 40 years ago. |
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Some productions entertain audiences for a season. Others leave a lasting mark on a country's cultural history. Woza Albert! belongs firmly in the second category.
From 15 to 26 July 2026, the acclaimed production returns to the Barney Simon Theatre at the Market Theatre in Newtown as part of the theatre's 50th anniversary celebrations. It's a fitting homecoming for a play that helped establish the Market Theatre as one of South Africa's most important cultural institutions.
A Story That Still Resonates
Created by Mbongeni Ngema, Percy Mtwa, and Barney Simon, Woza Albert! premiered in 1981 during apartheid.
Using humour, satire and powerful storytelling, the play imagines what would happen if Morena returned to apartheid South Africa. As he travels through the country, he encounters ordinary people whose lives have been shaped by inequality, hardship, and resilience. While rooted in a specific moment in history, the themes continue to resonate with audiences today.
Two Actors, Countless Characters
This revival is directed by Hamilton Dhlamini, who also performs alongside Thulani Mtsweni.
Using only a handful of simple props, the two actors move seamlessly between dozens of characters, bringing to life the humour, humanity and struggles of everyday South Africans. Their performances showcase the creativity and energy that have made Woza Albert! one of the country's most celebrated theatrical works.
A Fitting Anniversary Celebration
The Market Theatre is widely recognised for the important role it played in South African protest theatre, and few productions are more closely associated with its legacy than Woza Albert!.
Bringing the play back to the Barney Simon Theatre during the venue's 50th anniversary celebrations gives audiences the opportunity to experience an iconic South African production in the place where its remarkable journey began.
Before You Go
Dates: 15 to 26 July 2026 Venue: Barney Simon Theatre, Market Theatre, Newtown Tickets: R110 to R220 Bookings: Webtickets and selected Pick n Pay stores
The Bottom Line
More than four decades after it first captivated audiences, Woza Albert! remains one of South Africa's defining theatrical productions. Whether you're seeing it for the first time or introducing it to a new generation, this limited run offers a rare opportunity to experience a landmark work of South African theatre where it all began. |