The nation's theatre stages are bringing plenty of energy this week, with something for almost every kind of theatregoer.
You can expect sharp humour and tension, outrageous rock ’n’ roll, or an a dramatic exploration of justice, power, and sexual violence.
Cape Town
Prima Facie
What happens when the person who knows the legal system inside out finds herself on the other side of it? "Prima Facie", the Olivier and Tony Award-winning play by Suzie Miller, follows Tessa, a successful barrister who has built her career defending men accused of sexual offences.
Her confidence in the justice system is shaken when she becomes a victim of sexual assault herself. The questions, procedures and rules she once knew so well now take on a very different meaning.
Performed by Danica De La Rey Jones and directed by Neil Coppen, the South African premiere explores justice, power, sexual violence and what happens when the system you trust is tested personally.
Where: Baxter Studio - Baxter Theatre Centre.
When: Tuesday, August 11 to Saturday, August 29 at 3pm and 8pm.
Rescue Remedy
There are few relationships as complicated as the one between a child and their parent, and "Rescue Remedy" takes that familiar territory and puts it quite literally on the N2.
Written and performed by Roland du Preez, the one-person comedy-drama follows a queer child trying to make sense of their relationship with their forceful father after a car breakdown leaves them needing his help.
As the journey unfolds, memories of love, anger, misunderstanding and family expectations come into the picture. The play also touches on queer identity in contemporary South Africa, the trauma carried by a former soldier and mental health.
Where: Waterfront Theatre School.
When: Friday, August 14 and Saturday, August 15 at 8pm and 6.45pm.
Peace Train
Before Yusuf Islam became known by that name, the world knew him as Cat Stevens, the British singer-songwriter behind classics such as "Peace Train, Wild World, Father and Son and Morning Has Broken".
His music became part of the soundtrack of the 1970s before he stepped away from the spotlight and later embraced Islam, changing his name to Yusuf Islam.
"Peace Train" brings that story to the stage through a three-artist production combining live music and scenes from his life.
Award-winning singer-songwriter Nur Felix takes on the role of Stevens/Islam, joined by Vincent Meyburgh and Lynne Poulsen. Directed by Fleur du Cap recipient Brent Palmer, the production looks at the musician's journey, transformation and the songs that have continued to find new audiences decades later.
Where: The Masque Theatre.
When: Thursday, August 13 and Saturday, August 15 at 7pm and 8.35pm.
Johannesburg
A Good House
Cape Town-born writer and director Amy Jephta brings her acclaimed play “A Good House” to the Market Theatre.
The play follows three couples living in a gated South African community whose lives are turned upside down when a mysterious shack suddenly appears.
What starts as a strange discovery soon leads to funny, tense and revealing encounters between the residents. The production combines humour with a closer look at the people and issues hiding behind the walls of a seemingly perfect community.
Where: Mannie Manim, Market Theatre, Johannesburg
When: Runs until August 30, 7pm. Times differ over the weekend.
The Rocky Horror Show
Get ready for a night of outrageous humour, memorable music and plenty of audience participation with “The Rocky Horror Show”.
Presented by Pieter Toerien with The Luitingh Alexander Musical Theatre Academy, the production brings Richard O’Brien’s iconic rock musical back to the stage.
The show features a new cast, bold costumes and plenty of energy, with Craig Urbani taking on the famous role of Dr Frank-N-Furter.
Where: Pieter Toerien Montecasino Main Theatre, Johannesburg
When: Runs until August 16, 7.30pm. Times differ over the weekend.
Maison De La Dance present Renaissance Dance Festival
Young dancers take centre stage at the Renaissance Dance Festival 2026, presented by Maison De La Dance Project.
The showcase brings together performers from the Johannesburg Academy for Theatre Arts, Joburg Ballet Youth, National School of the Arts, Zintle School of Dance and Romoova.
Audiences can expect a celebration of ballet, jazz, contemporary and modern dance as young performers showcase their talent, creativity and passion for the arts.
Where: The Lesedi at Joburg Theatre
When: August 15 and 16, 6pm and 3pm.
Durban
From Stage to Screen Part 2:
Following the tremendous success of "From Screen to Stage", the Durban City Orchestra presents their second concert series of the year. The programme will include music from film and stage, featuring favourites from "Harry Potter", "The Lord of the Rings" and beloved Disney classics, together with iconic themes audiences know and love.
Where: Milkwood Theatre, Danville Park Girls' High School, Durban North
When: Sunday, August 16 at 3.30pm
Where: The Junction @ St Agnes Anglican Church in Kloof
When: Sunday, August 23 at 3.30pm
Where: St Thomas Church in Musgrave
When: Sunday, August 30 at 3pm
My Cape Town by Pat Pillai with Melvin Peters:
The good old days of the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s are remembered in this comedy-drama, written and performed by Pat Pillai. "My Cape Town" is an ode to courage and the triumph of life.
A journey of stories, music and song. The heartwarming and hilarious stories are inspired by Rylands, Athlone on the Cape Flats. The characters are brought to life by Pillai, with Melvin Peters (on piano).
Where: The Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre, University of KwaZulu-Natal
When: August 14 to 16.
Elvis & The Legends – The Story of Rock & Roll:
Audiences will be treated to an immersive audio-visual journey into the golden era of rock & roll. The electrifying two-part live experience is a celebration of Elvis Presley - the King of Rock & Roll - performed by acclaimed tribute artist Andrea Giglio, capturing the sound, spirit, and swagger of the hits that defined a generation.
This show is more than a tribute. It’s a journey through the roots of rock & roll, honouring the legends who inspired Elvis and ignited a cultural movement. Expect energy, nostalgia, and an unforgettable soundtrack to the 20th century.
Where: Rhumbelow Northlands, 50 Margaret Maytom Ave, Durban North
When: August 15
AMANDLA – PHUMELELA:
An original South African musical theatre production developed through the eThekwini Municipality's Theatre Residency Programme.
"AMANDLA – PHUMELELA" is a powerful and thought-provoking musical that confronts the realities facing South African youth today—including addiction, abandonment, loss of identity, and the search for love, purpose, and belonging.
Where: The Stable Theatre, 115 Johannes Nkosi Street, Greyville, Durban
When: Currently showing until August 16.
culture_thenational@nationalmg.co.za