Joburg stages shine with a mix of magic, music and moving drama

Wow, theatregoers are truly spoilt for choice at the moment. From Janice Honeyman’s “Pinocchio” to the infectious musical “Private Presley - The Ballet”, tapping into the holiday spirit around the corner becomes easier. 

In the meantime, here’s what else is on offer.

Madagascar - A Musical Adventure Jr

I don’t need to tell you this, but the kids will take much delight in this fabulous year-end production at the Peoples Theatre. 

A feel-good musical, it is based on the hit DreamWorks animated feature, centred on a group of friends at New York’s Central Park Zoo making a break for it, only to find themselves navigating a treacherous world outside of their sanctuary. 

The key characters include Alex the Lion, who is the main attraction as the king of the jungle, his best friends Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the “Hip Hip Hippo”, and those four fugitive penguins. 

And the cast depicting them are: Thokozani Jiyane (Alex the lion), Junior Geel (Marty the Zebra), Bethany Jiyane (Gloria the Hippo), Lwazi Pinyana (Melman the Giraffe), Raymond Skinner (King Julian and various roles) and Amelia Stephens (news reporter and various roles).

“We’re so thrilled to have the opportunity to stage ‘Madagascar – A Musical Adventure Jr’. Everyone will fall in love with the wonderful characters from the movie and dance to the catchy music. It’s the best way to end the year,” added director Jill Girard.

Where: Peoples Theatre. 

When: November 4 to December 24, Tuesday to Friday at 9am and 11am. Times differ on public holidays and the weekend.

The Fatherland

This poignant production tells the story of centenarian Dr TT Cholo. 

Now living modestly in Soshanguve Township, Cholo shares the remarkable journey of his life. 

In 1962, he left South Africa for exile, driven by a desire to fight for his homeland. Following four years of training and strategic planning, he embarked on a journey back to his country, travelling through Botswana. Regrettably, he was apprehended and imprisoned for three years.

Upon his release, he returned to exile, training further in Russia and China. 

In 1971, he and his comrades attempted to return home aboard the Aventura. Their mission was unsuccessful. A year later, they tried again. However, this time, they were arrested and sent to Robben Island. 

After 13 years behind bars, Cholo was released in June 1988. 

Where: Opera Theatre, State Theatre, Pretoria.

When: Runs until November 9, 7pm. Weekend times differ.

Mad Man Tales

This production centres on Mkhululi, who is found guilty of killing over 895 people.

As such, he is sent to a psychiatric prison hospital where he meets Dr Vutali.

Their sessions uncover a disturbing narrative where Mkhululi opens up about his childhood and being abused by his father. 

In his mind, Mkhululi believes he’s being silenced by powerful political parties, refusing to concede any involvement in the murders he stands accused of. 

Where: space.com at Joburg Theatre.

When: Runs until November 9, 7pm.