Age: 6+
Duration: 30 minutes
Language: English, IsiXhosa
Golden Arrow Studio

“Vula” is a beautiful puppet theatre show for our youngest audience members and a fantastic life lesson about friendship, the pursuit of one’s dreams and the power of arts. The story revolves around schoolboy Dimpho who rather helps out in a tuck shop than doing his homework. To him it appears like a life dream to become a shopkeeper like his boss Jila. But why does everybody else in the neighbourhood seem to pity the old man? And what’s inside all those boxes Jila guards like a secret? When the two get into an argument, Dimpho is tempted to cross a line…

Written by: Mandiseli Maseti
Directed by: Samkelo Zihlangu
Performed by: Mandiseli Maseti, Zizipho Quluba, Sindile Msebenzi

Book here

Also performed on March 27 and 29.

Pandemic

Age: 13+ (No under 13s)
Duration: 25 min
Language: English, isiXhosa
Concert Hall

Luveni pretends to be strong at a women’s prison by bullying new inmates, that is until she meets Margarete who blesses everyone with song and prayers. But this newfound energy doesn’t stop the ugliness of the prison world as rape is still prevalent in its cold corridors. Will justice prevail or is justice just a word for those outside the four corners of prison.

Presented by: Spairo Art Foundation
Directed and written by: Nicky Spiwo Mlanjana
Stage Manager: Onke Mcofane, Jimlongo luvo Jimlongo
Cast: Busisiwe Ludwangu, Yonela Sentse, Khanya Moshani, Natasha Steinveld, Esihle Badlati, Nolundi Nonolo, Lorna Nonkwenkwe, Alude Tilato

Delwersdorp

Age: 13+ (No under 13s)
Duration: 25 min
Language: English, Afrikaans
Concert Hall

Through gold we are divided by Race and Class, those were the words the late Isaac fed into the head of Salomie since she was a child. A small town in Witwatersrand is her home well known for its mines. Everyone worked at the mines, even Willie should follow the family legacy but in his soul he feels for change. His brother Pieter wants nothing to do with Willie and outlandish ideas. But is change good or Willie find out that fate sometimes has its own journey.

Presented by: Art Attack
Directed by: Gashmea Harrison
Written by: Michaela Whaites
Cast: Llewellyn Bond, Heinrich Pienaar, Marveen Charles, Jameline Whaites & Jaydene September.

Book here for both shows

Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: Afrikaans
Masambe

Oorwinings Reis is 'n eenman vertoning wat sê "Die lewe is 'n reis alleen." Daar is egter 'n reis tussen sonsopkoms en sonsondergang, die volledige omstyging van die aarde om die son, en die half-tot-volmaan. In hierdie blitsvinnige toneelstuk vertel die 23-jarige Tina Naidoo van haar triomfantlike sowel as haar lewensreis. Soos baie ander wat uit twee godsdienstige gesinne kom, was Tina se lewe nie maklik nie. Vir hierdie gelukkige jong dame was dit nie 'n sprokie om die groot skuif van die klein plaasdorpie na die moederstad te maak nie.

’n Hartseer reis na oorwinning solank sy haar passie kan uitleef.

Presented by: Patwill Titus
Written by: Patwill Titus
Directed by: Patwill Titus
Performed by: Chantell Makok.

Book here

Also performed on March 28 and 30.

Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: English, IsiXhosa
Golden Arrow Studio

Lamentations explores the journey of a young girl Nobuhle who gets kidnapped and forced into an arranged marriage. Her cries are dismissed by both the birth family and the one she enters involuntarily. Her childhood is lost forever when she is expected to produce offspring for her new family. With her life making this turn overnight, she has no option but to cry.

Presented by: Uyilo Arts Academy
Written by: Rhorho Mnyamana
Directed by: Samkelo Zihlangu
Performed by: Ayakha Gwadela

Book here

Also performed on March 30.

Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: English, IsiXhosa
Golden Arrow Studio

A newly engaged couple, full of aspirations and dreams, is put to the test when the man steps into the footsteps of his fiancé’s father. Caught up by childhood memories, all insecurities from the past come back to the surface and strain the relationship. Will they manage to find their own way of living with each other, respectfully and affectionately, without their parents’ intervention? And what can be done if they fall back to the power structures of the parents?

Written by: Buhle Sam
Directed by: Buhle Sam
Presented by: Silumko Theatre
Performed by: Buhle Sam, Yongisipho Mtimkhulu

Book here

Also performed on March 27.

Age: All
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: English
Golden Arrow Studio

A box appears on an empty stage. What could be inside? AHA! Wool. Pulling out a thread the actors weave themselves and the audience into a wondrous world of wool. This playful performance explores what wool can do, what we can make from it, how we can play with it and how the shapes that it makes can stimulate the imagination end with shattered lives?

Presented by: The Company of AHA!
Written by: Nwabisa Plaatjie and company 
Directed by: Nwabisa Plaatjie
Performed by: Luthando Mvandaba, Beviol Swartz, Emmanuel Nstamba,

Book here

Also performed on March 27 and 29.

Studio Rehearsal Room

This year, the festival will pay tribute to writer, actor, director and mentor, Khayalethu Anthony, who passed away in 2022, with a screening of his award-winning production, The Champion. The production won the Best of Zabalaza award in 2013 and the Fresh Award for Writing in the 2017 Cape Town Fringe Festival.

Ticket entry will go as a donation towards the family of Khayelethu Anthony.

Book here

Also screened on March 31.

Musical poetry event
The Baxter Garden
Free entry

with: Kitso Seti, Internet Athi, Blaze the poet, Enkosi Simelane, Zusiphe Mtsitshe, Lwanda Sindaphi, Thapelo Tharaga

Age: open to families
Language: English, Afrikaans
The Pam Golding Theatre

RAW presents a one of a kind theatre production entitled "The RAW Experience". A high energy and magical production showcasing a mixture of the best emerging and established talent from the Mother City.

with Amy Jones

Supported by Patty Monroe, Robyn Ex, Hersh, Chaise Williams
Poet: Gracia Nicholls
Dance Cres: Xo Empire
Rapper: Leiche
Comedian: Zachary Esau
Singers: Keenan Kittas, Kelkasso, Kelsey Paige, Robyn Reid, Vozier
Hosed by CJ Benson
DJ: Muffinman
Band: Perfect Fifth
Wild Card: Lee James

Book here

Age: No under 16’s
Language: English
The Pam Golding Theatre

The Portjiekos stand up comedy presented by Mashinga Management

Hosted by: Sivuyile Dunjwa
Ft:
Choice Mtshixa
Kate Pinchuck
Altaaf Sayed
Ayabona Kene
Dylan Mccabe

Book here

Age:3+
Duration: 30 minutes
Language: English, Afrikaans, IsiXhosa
Masambe

The Bongi Bird performance involves a fun and energetic bird character called Bongi with a creative bird beak mask and wings. Through interactive clapping and singing the children are inspired to be like Bongi Bird, to eat healthy, plant seeds, do exercise and boost their immune systems.

Written by : Vincent Meyburgh
Directed by: Vincent Meyburgh
Presented by: Jungle Theatre Company
Performed by: Vincent Meyburgh, Naledi Tlailane

Book here

Also performed on March 29.

No under 13’s.
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: English, IsiXhosa
Golden Arrow Studio

What kind of farewell do you expect to receive at the end of your life? How would you choose to shape the last stage of this journey? When Zolile’s father becomes seriously sick, he feels compelled as a son to move from the Eastern Cape to Cape Town leaving his wife behind. Zolile’s messages become rarer and then suddenly there is no sign of him anymore.

Written by: Liveni Ntsobololo
Directed by: Liveni Ntsobololo
Presented by: Imbono Theatre
Performed by: Liveni Tsobololo, Asiphe Mangqasana, Abongile Khule, Qhawekazi Beleni, Lindile Bhunga, Thinathi Bukhulu

Book here

Also performed on March 30.

Age: 6+
Duration: 30 minutes
Language: English, IsiXhosa
The Pam Golding Theatre

“Vula” is a beautiful puppet theatre show for our youngest audience members and a fantastic life lesson about friendship, the pursuit of one’s dreams and the power of arts. The story revolves around schoolboy Dimpho who rather helps out in a tuck shop than doing his homework. To him it appears like a life dream to become a shopkeeper like his boss Jila. But why does everybody else in the neighbourhood seem to pity the old man? And what’s inside all those boxes Jila guards like a secret? When the two get into an argument, Dimpho is tempted to cross a line…

Written by: Mandiseli Maseti
Directed by: Samkelo Zihlangu
Performed by: Mandiseli Maseti, Zizipho Quluba, Sindile Msebenzi

Book here

Also performed on March 25 and 29.

Age 13+
Language: IsiXhosa
Masambe

To find work and make a living the young couple Zandisile and Zukiswa relocate from their rural home area to the province of Gauteng. As they embark on a path which has been chosen by many other South Africans before them, they experience a slew of difficulties. How can one keep control over one’s own future when conflicts like land occupation, loadshedding, drug abuse and cultural and religious fights are rife in the country? Within the current political times “Enyanyeni” is a story of the tenacity of the South African youth.

Presented by: Uyilo Arts Academy
Written by: Rhorho Mnyamana
Directed by: Samkelo Zihlangu
Performed by: Ayakha Gwadela

Book here

Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: English, IsiXhosa
Concert Hall

What will a father say to his children when he finally faces them again after 12 years? And how will the children react to this person who once turned his back to them? When the mother of two children dies suddenly of a heart attack, their father returns from Johannesburg to take care of his kids. Suddenly he’s there as their provider expecting to be part of their life again.

Written by: Lukhanyo Langa
Directed by: Lukhanyo Langa
Presented by: Ikhwezilesizwe Primary
Performed by: Zipho Mrwata, Thabang Yantolo, Oluthando Fantu, Chulumanco Bonga, Chulumanco Tengani, Sivenathi Kopies

Book here

Age: All
Duration: 30 minutes
Language: English
The Pam Golding Theatre

A box appears on an empty stage. What could be inside? AHA! Wool. Pulling out a thread the actors weave themselves and the audience into a wondrous world of wool. This playful performance explores what wool can do, what we can make from it, how we can play with it and how the shapes that it makes can stimulate the imagination end with shattered lives

Written by: Nwabisa Plaatjie and company
Directed by: Nwabisa Plaatjie
Presented by: The Company of AHA!
Performed by: Luthando Mvandaba, Beviol Swartz, Emmanuel Nstamba

Book here

Also performed on March 29.

Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: IsiXhosa
Golden Arrow Studio

Three sisters who could not be more different are challenged as a family, when the underage daughter of one of them unintentionally gets pregnant. Set in Langa township, “Landitshonela emini” is a family drama which revolves around the weakest in the family. Will the elders be on the daughter’s side and help her raise the baby? Will they agree to take care of the vulnerable infant?

Presented by: Teachmaling Women’s ProjectWritten by : Nontembiso NdwadweDirected by : Mava Silumko Performed: Sivenathi Sibahle Macibela, Luxolo Rapula Mboso, Sibusiso Moni, Thando Suselo, Zikhona Ja-Paul

Book here

Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: English, IsiXhosa
Golden Arrow Studio

A newly engaged couple, full of aspirations and dreams, is put to the test when the man steps into the footsteps of his fiancé’s father. Caught up by childhood memories, all insecurities from the past come back to the surface and strain the relationship. Will they manage to find their own way of living with each other, respectfully and affectionately, without their parents’ intervention? And what can be done if they fall back to the power structures of the parents?

Written by: Buhle Sam
Directed by: Buhle Sam
Presented by: Silumko Theatre
Performed by: Buhle Sam, Yongisipho Mtimkhulu

Book here

Also performed on March 25.

Age: +13
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: IsiXhosa
The Pam Golding Theatre

A father is meant to be fearless and strong, caring and understanding. He is meant to protect his kids from all evil in the world. What happens when the father is less of what he is supposed to be?

Written by: Simphiwe Sefali
Directed by : Simphiwe Sefali
Performed by: Sifundo Ndude, Nanga Tsali, Likhona Ntside, Sipho Dyapi, Masonwabe Goso, Siyathemba, Dyapi Ahluma Mngxuma, Usanda Mthsashe, Sifiso Shwana, Lisakhanya Gcera, Yongama Sohuma, Lisakhanya Phokwana, Lerato Manjati, Iviwe Thomas, Maria Siphango, Sinazo Ndesi.

Book here

Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: English
Golden Arrow Studio

“Earth, open up and swallow me. Perhaps, I may meet my forebears and they may wipe my tears”. In the face of colonial threat many fearless people in Africa were ready to give their lives for resistance. The one-hander “Tiro’s Toughloop Testimony” zooms in on the life of one of them, Onkgopotse Tiro, who became the first across the border victim of the malicious Apartheid regime. Moving from documentary to poetry and from history to the present time, the contribution of this important figure of the Black Consciousness Movement is remembered in a touching and enlightening one-hander.

Written by: Ayanda ka Nobakabona
Directed by: Mfundo Zono
Presented by: Okwamanzi Arts Junction
Performed by: Ayanda Nobakabona

Book here

Also performed on March 29.

Age: 16+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: English, isiXhosa
Masambe

After Melissa is sexually assaulted by her ex-boyfriend Sandile, she decides not to be silent but to speak openly and lay charges against him. When the prosecutor sets out on an uncompromisable search for the truth, Melissa is forced to relive her trauma.

Presented by: Nosiphiwo Ndabeni
Written by: Nosiphiwo Ndabeni
Directed by : Wendy Mrali

Book here

Also performed on March 29 and 31.

Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: IsiXhosa
Golden Arrow Studio

Lomdlalo ubeka inqgwalasela kungquzulwano lwenkolo. uAsanda umama wabantwana abathathu oligqirhakazi uthi azimnye ngeqhina lomtshato nendoda elikholwa, othi abenempatho gadalala kusapho lonke de abantwana bathathe isigqibo sokusidisa ubomi buka mama wabo.

Presented by: Bholokondlela
Written by: Adadume Ngxaki
Directed by: Bulelwa Mbalo

Book here

Also performed on March 30.

Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: English & IsiXhosa
The Pam Golding Theatre

Sometimes one emotional decision is enough to change our lives forever. When Mzwanele gets into an argument with his wife, his life changes forever, children have questions, can he answer them?

Presented by: Imvelaphi Arts
Written by: Aviwe Nose
Directed by: Bandile Skweyiya

Book here

Also performed on March 29.

Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: IsiXhosa
Concert Hall

How did we get to the point where we are today? How did we come to be who we are now? In “Ndize ndize” (“I will come”) we follow the story of the Fana family where the parents live their lives through their children and the children’s lives are shaped by their parents’ past. Ukuthwalwa…is it a crime?

Presented by: The Ark
Written by : Nasiphi Ngxikixa
Directed by: Buhle Potela

Book now

Also performed on March 31.

Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: Afrikaans
Golden Arrow Studio

Set in the cruel times of Apartheid, three brothers are forced to take their place in society at an early age when their mother becomes terribly sick. Under pressure to raise money for her treatment, they cross over into the wrong part of town, where breaking into a house is considered a daily routine rather than a crime. Once you get into it, it’s hard to get out. Will their debts be paid off and at what cost?

Presented by: Rowmonique Kayser & Northlink College
Written by: Rowmonique Kayser
Directed by: Rowmonique Kayser

Book now

Also performed on March 29th.

Age: 16+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: Afrikaans
The Pam Golding Theatre

“Unfiltered thoughts” is a story about six adolescents whose daily lives are filled with betrayal, fears, bullying, difficult decision making, and their struggle to understand where they belong. The expectations set out for them do not allow them to pursue what they truly want out of life. The only place where they can be honest about their dreams and self-images is in their minds

Presented by: Nekita Hill
Written and directed by: Nekita Hill

Book here

Also performed on March 31.

Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: Afrikaans
Masambe

Oorwinings Reis is 'n eenman vertoning wat sê "Die lewe is 'n reis alleen." Daar is egter 'n reis tussen sonsopkoms en sonsondergang, die volledige omstyging van die aarde om die son, en die half-tot-volmaan. In hierdie blitsvinnige toneelstuk vertel die 23-jarige Tina Naidoo van haar triomfantlike sowel as haar lewensreis. Soos baie ander wat uit twee godsdienstige gesinne kom, was Tina se lewe nie maklik nie. Vir hierdie gelukkige jong dame was dit nie 'n sprokie om die groot skuif van die klein plaasdorpie na die moederstad te maak nie.

’n Hartseer reis na oorwinning solank sy haar passie kan uitleef.

Presented by: Patwill Titus
Written and directed by: Patwill Titus

Book here

Also performed on March 25 and 30.

Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: isiXhosa
Concert Hall

A heart wrenching physical theatre piece about the life of Sabelo and Sandiswa, two lovers who seem to be the perfect match. Carved from the same wood their love grows from equality instead of disparity, but an unspeakable truth threatens to destroy everything.

Presented by: Ingqiqo
Written by : Sinobabalo Dlokova
Directed by: Awonke Sityata

Book here

Age:13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: Afrikaans
The Pam Golding Theatre

Rina is 'n eienaardige en eksentrieke middeljarige vrou. Sy en haar man, Dominee Koos Enslin, het 15 jaar gelede Moorresburg toe getrek. Selfs na soveel jare, sukkel sy nogsteeds om in te pas by die gehegte gemeenskap van Moorreesburg. Ten minste hou haar skilderye haar besig. Skilder is vir haar 'n magiese ontvlugting.

Vir jare lank sukkel Rina om swanger te word. Sy en Koos wil graag 'n baba van hul eie hê., maar na vele terugslae het Rina opgegee en aanvaar dat moederskap nie vir haar beskore is nie. Totdat Soufie in hul lewe gekom het.

Presented by: Chester Miggels & Northlink College
Written by : Chester Miggels
Directed by: Chester Miggels

Book here

Also performed on March 31.

Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: Afrikaans, English
Golden Arrow Studio

When Alex is sad, he goes to the beach, a place where he can escape from all challenges in his life and forget the invisible fractures inside him. From the outside everything seems normal. After his mother passed away, his father remarried a beautiful woman, but how can everything be whole again when left alone like this? With the waves of the sea washing up on the beach, unpleasant memories return.

Presented by: Nicole Speek
Written and directed by: Nicole Speek

Book here

Also performed on March 29.

Age: No under 16
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: English, isiXhosa
Masambe

After Melissa is sexually assaulted by her ex-boyfriend Sandile, she decides not to be silent but to speak openly and lay charges against him. When the prosecutor sets out on an uncompromisable search for the truth, Melissa is forced to relive her trauma.

Presented by: Nosiphiwo Ndabeni
Written by: Nosiphiwo Ndabeni
Directed by : Wendy Mrali
Performed by: Nosiphiwo Ndabeni, Buhle Stefane

Book here

Also performed on March 28 and 31.

Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: Afrikaans, English
Golden Arrow Studio

When Alex is sad, he goes to the beach, a place where he can escape from all challenges in his life and forget the invisible fractures inside him. From the outside everything seems normal. After his mother passed away, his father remarried a beautiful woman, but how can everything be whole again when left alone like this? With the waves of the sea washing up on the beach, unpleasant memories return.

Presented by: Nicole Speek
Written and directed by: Nicole Speek
Performed by: Chad Baai, Kay-dee Griebelaar

Book here

Also performed on March 28.

Age: 3+
Duration: 30 minutes
Language: English, Afrikaans and IsiXhosa
Concert Hall

The Bongi Bird performance involves a fun and energetic bird character called Bongi with a creative bird beak mask and wings. Through interactive clapping and singing the children are inspired to be like Bongi Bird, to eat healthy, plant seeds, do exercise and boost their immune systems.

Presented by: Jungle Theatre Company
Written by : Vincent Meyburgh
Directed by: Vincent Meyburgh

Book here

Also performed on March 27.

Age: 6+
Duration: 30 minutes
Language: isiXhosa, English
The Pam Golding Theatre

“Vula” is a beautiful puppet theatre show for our youngest audience members and a fantastic life lesson about friendship, the pursuit of one’s dreams and the power of arts. The story revolves around schoolboy Dimpho who rather helps out in a tuck shop than doing his homework. To him it appears like a life dream to become a shopkeeper like his boss Jila. But why does everybody else in the neighbourhood seem to pity the old man? And what’s inside all those boxes Jila guards like a secret? When the two get into an argument, Dimpho is tempted to cross a line…

Written by: Mandiseli Maseti
Directed by: Samkelo Zihlangu
Performed by: Mandiseli Maseti, Zizipho Quluba, Sindile Msebenzi

Book here

Also performed on March 25 and 27.

Age: No under 13
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: IsiXhosa
Masambe

Betrayal is a story about two twin brothers from Mozambique who broke contact with each other. With Sedrick having settled in South Africa, they haven’t seen each other in years. When Derick makes a travel to the country, their paths cross again, but in the most unexpected and unlikely way, the same issue that tore them apart initially finds them again. The fraternal feud is reignited.

Presented by: Black Moses
Written and directed by: Sifiso Nkosi
Performed by: Raymond Eric Mlaza, Esam Gugu, Dinwa Oyisa, Derick Koti

Book here

Age: No under 13
Language: English & IsiXhosa
Duration: 55 minutes
Golden Arrow Studio

At a train station in De Aar trains are coming and going, but three women remain standing on the platform. All of them are in love and waiting for somebody who is supposed to change their lives forever: a rich man who will rescue them from poverty. But the arrival is delayed again and again and soon suspicion turns into certainty.

Presented by: Ithemba Labantu
Written by: Nonhlanhla Duda
Directed by: Nonhlanhla Duda
Performed by: Nonhlanhla Duda, Palesa Moiloa, Lilitha Mzolisa

Book here

Also performed on March 31.

Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: IsiXhosa
Concert Hall

As each day unfolds in a rural town in the Eastern Cape, a young couple proves that it takes more than love to turn a relationship into a fairy tale. Above all, in a proper story like that there’s space only for two instead of three, at least this is how we learned it from childhood on. Like a cursed box which is opened and can't be closed anymore, betrayal, violence and gossip enter the couple’s lives, once this rule is broken.

Presented by: Ubomi Bomdlao Weqonga art organisation
Written by: Sive Mafungwa
Directed by: Sive Mafungwa
Performed by: Nomawethu Nulwa, Kamva Mzongwana, Onele Mafalala, Sinaye Loli, Limanye Zono, Liyabona Mafungwa, Sivenathi Mzongwana, Isiphile Woji, Liso Komani, Sibusiso Mzongwana.

Book here

Age: No under 13
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: English & Isixhosa
The Pam Golding Theatre

Sometimes one emotional decision is enough to change our lives forever. When Mzwanele gets into an argument with his wife, his life changes forever, children have questions, can he answer them?

Presented by: Imvelaphi Arts
Written by: Aviwe Nose
Directed by: Bandile Skweyiya
Performed by: Aviwe Nose, Sihle Mdleleni, Ndimphiwe Koloti, Azanathi Kwetani

Book here

Also performed on March 28.

Age: No under 13
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: IsiXhosa
Masambe

To find work and make a living the young couple Zandisile and Zukiswa relocate from their rural home area to the province of Gauteng. As they embark on a path which has been chosen by many other South Africans before them, they experience a slew of difficulties. How can one keep control over one’s own future when conflicts like land occupation, loadshedding, drug abuse and cultural and religious fights are rife in the country? Within the current political times “Enyanyeni” is a story of the tenacity of the South African youth.

Presented by: Ntsikelelo Qhinga
Written by: Ntsikelelo Qhinga
Directed by: Buhle Qhinga
Performed by: Zintle Lufefe, Asithandile Baleni

Book here

Also performed on March 27.

Age: All
Duration: 30 minutes
Language: English
The Pam Golding Theatre

A box appears on an empty stage. What could be inside? AHA! Wool. Pulling out a thread the actors weave themselves and the audience into a wondrous world of wool. This playful performance explores what wool can do, what we can make from it, how we can play with it and how the shapes that it makes can stimulate the imagination end with shattered lives?

Presented by: The Company of AHA!
Written by: Nwabisa Plaatjie and company
Directed by: Nwabisa Plaatjie
Performed by: Luthando Mvandaba, Beviol Swartz, Emmanuel Nstamba,

Book here

Also performed on March 25 and 27.

Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: Afrikaans
Golden Arrow Studio

Set in the cruel times of Apartheid, three brothers are forced to take their place in society at an early age when their mother becomes terribly sick. Under pressure to raise money for her treatment, they cross over into the wrong part of town, where breaking into a house is considered a daily routine rather than a crime. Once you get into it, it’s hard to get out. Will their debts be paid off and at what cost?

Presented by: Rowmonique Kayser & Northlink College
Written and directed by: Rowmonique Kayser
Performed by: Chester Miggels, Amber Jonas, Thea Cottee, Raynardt Fortuin

Book here

Also performed on March 28.

Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: Afrikaans
Masambe

Oorwinings Reis is 'n eenman vertoning wat sê "Die lewe is 'n reis alleen." Daar is egter 'n reis tussen sonsopkoms en sonsondergang, die volledige omstyging van die aarde om die son, en die half-tot-volmaan. In hierdie blitsvinnige toneelstuk vertel die 23-jarige Tina Naidoo van haar triomfantlike sowel as haar lewensreis. Soos baie ander wat uit twee godsdienstige gesinne kom, was Tina se lewe nie maklik nie. Vir hierdie gelukkige jong dame was dit nie 'n sprokie om die groot skuif van die klein plaasdorpie na die moederstad te maak nie.

’n Hartseer reis na oorwinning solank sy haar passie kan uitleef.

Presented by: Patwill Titus
Written and directed by: Patwill Titus
Performed by: Chantell Makok

Book here

Also performed on March 28 and 25.

Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: English
Golden Arrow Studio

“Earth, open up and swallow me. Perhaps, I may meet my forebears and they may wipe my tears”. In the face of colonial threat many fearless people in Africa were ready to give their lives for resistance. The one-hander “Tiro’s Toughloop Testimony” zooms in on the life of one of them, Onkgopotse Tiro, who became the first across the border victim of the malicious Apartheid regime. Moving from documentary to poetry and from history to the present time, the contribution of this important figure of the Black Consciousness Movement is remembered in a touching and enlightening one-hander.

Written by: Ayanda ka NobakabonaDirected by: Mfundo ZonoPresented by: Okwamanzi Arts JunctionPerformed by: Ayanda Nobakabona

Book here

Also performed on March 27.

Age: No under 16
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: English & Isixhosa
The Pam Golding Theatre

Inyala follows the life of two star-crossed lovers from rival families, a Xhosa prince soon to be king and a coloured girl, Megan. As the chosen one is introduced to the royal family, a long-forgotten conflict is revealed which unveils not only the family‘s deepest secrets, but also questions its legitimacy to the African throne. How will the prince decide if he is given the choice between love and duty? Does their love have the power to unite two cultures?

Presented by: Blackkfuture
Written and directed by: Hlumelo Titi
Performed by: Amile Nkota, Aphiwe Faleni, Tesha Titus, Mihle Nxoyi, Siyolisiwe Jibane, Asanda Makaluza, Kamva Bobi, Lisa Xhamela, Hlumelo Titi

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Age: No under 16
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: Afrikaans
Golden Arrow Studio

“Die verlede” is a story about four men who are hard workers, some of them work on a farm in the Cape Winelands, others on a construction site. All of them battle with the conditions of their labour and with their relationships to their supervisor, a black man. While they work on the fields, helping the soil to be fertile, something else emerges: Underneath the surface they find the violent past of their country and the still smoldering conflict between coloured and black people which they just cannot forget.

Presented by: BP Productions
Written and directed by: Solomon Bosman
Performed by: Solomon Bosman, Andre Sameuls, Lee Roodr, Rushin Brinkhyus, Ivan Abrahams, Keenan Herman

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Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: IsiXhosa
Concert Hall

Three sisters who could not be more different are challenged as a family, when the underage daughter of one of them unintentionally gets pregnant. Set in Langa township, “Landitshonela emini” is a family drama which revolves around the weakest in the family. Will the elders be on the daughter’s side and help her raise the baby? Will they agree to take care of the vulnerable infant?

Presented by: Teachmaling Women’s Project
Written by : Nontembiso Ndwadwe
Directed by : Mava Silumko
Performed: Sivenathi Sibahle Macibela, Luxolo Rapula Mboso, Sibusiso Moni, Thando Suselo, Zikhona Ja-Paul

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Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: Isixhosa
The Pam Golding Theatre

Ever since Nomaswazi married a tribal village king, she and her son Sizwesamanzi have found themselves at the centre of religious and traditional interests. Having a tribal village king as his father, Sizwesamanzi is meant to be raised by the elders, apart from his mother. When she escapes with him from the village to live a life together, misfortune follows. Sizwesamanzi falls into the hands of a childless woman who claims to be his new mother. Will Nomaswazi ever see him again and which side will the ancestors take in the face of injustice?

Presented by: Ithemba Labantu
Written and directed by: Palesa Moiloa
Performed by: Sinothando Maso, Likhona Dotwana, Alish Lekiso, Onele Phikwana, AnitaSiteto, Lukholwethu Kasmeni, Asiphe Aleni, Nqobile Siswana, Siyanda Mazomba, Ilitha Mzolisa, Simphiwe Kekana, Endinako Magwebelele, Yibanathi Mbambisa, Kamva Ngcwabane, Oyama Mbali, Esona Mihlali Kuwane, Mbalentle Ntezo, Palesa Moiloa.

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Age: No under 13
Duration: 55 min
Language: IsiXhosa
Concert Hall

An innocent child who is almost killed and buried. A woman who almost takes her life. Ithanda is about a broken family split between village and the city. It’s about people who have gone to the extreme and about others who rush to their assistance. Because where’s shadow, there will also be light. And only because memories have the power to catch up with us, we should not let them take control, should we?

Presented by: Heart of Arts
Written and directed by: Dumisani Siziba

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Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: English & Isixhosa
Golden Arrow Studio

What kind of farewell do you expect to receive at the end of your life? How would you choose to shape the last stage of this journey? When Zolile’s father becomes seriously sick, he feels compelled as a son to move from the Eastern Cape to Cape Town leaving his wife behind. Zolile’s messages become rarer and then suddenly there is no sign of him anymore.

Presented by: Imbono Theatre
Directed and written by: Liveni Ntsobololo
Performed by: Liveni Tsobololo, Asiphe Mangqasana, Abongile Khule, Qhawekazi Beleni, Lindile Bhunga, Thinathi Bukhulu

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Also performed on March 27.

Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: IsiXhosa
The Pam Golding Theatre

At the peak of his success, the young businessman Thulani returns to his home village to conduct the construction of a new bridge over the village's river. According to him the project shall be of historic significance and bring economic well-fare to everybody. But the only area where the foundation can be built is at the village's grave site. Who should be owning the soil that we’re standing on – the dead, the living or the yet unborn?

Presented by: PoniTale Production
Directed by: Sindile Msebenzi
Written by: Siyamthanda Poni

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Also performed on March 31.

Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: English & Isixhosa
Golden Arrow Studio

Lamentations explores the journey of a young girl Nobuhle who gets kidnapped and forced into an arranged marriage. Her cries are dismissed by both the birth family and the one she enters involuntarily. Her childhood is lost forever when she is expected to produce offspring for her new family. With her life making this turn overnight, she has no option but to cry.

Presented by: Uyilo Arts Academy
Written by: Rhorho Mnyamana
Directed by: Samkelo Zihlangu
Performed by: Ayakha Gwadela

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Also performed on March 25.

Age: No under 13
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: IsiXhosa
Golden Arrow Studio

Lomdlalo ubeka inqgwalasela kungquzulwano lwenkolo. uAsanda umama wabantwana abathathu oligqirhakazi uthi azimnye ngeqhina lomtshato nendoda elikholwa, othi abenempatho gadalala kusapho lonke de abantwana bathathe isigqibo sokusidisa ubomi buka mama wabo.

Presented by: Bholokondlela
Written by: Adadume Ngxaki
Directed by: Bulelwa Mbalo
Performed by: Olwethu Qavile, Ayabonga Bebe, Simnikiwe Bilikwa, Adadume Ngxaki, Siyamthanda Poni

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Age: 16+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: English, IsiXhosa
Golden Arrow Studio

After Melissa is sexually assaulted by her ex-boyfriend Sandile, she decides not to be silent but to speak openly and lay charges against him. When the prosecutor sets out on an uncompromisable search for the truth, Melissa is forced to relive her trauma.

Presented by: Nosiphiwo Ndabeni
Written by: Nosiphiwo Ndabeni
Directed by: Wendy Mrali
Performed by: Nosiphiwo Ndabeni, Buhle Stefane

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Also performed on March 28 and 29.

Age: No under 13
Duration: 55 min
Language: IsiXhosa
Masambe

An innocent child who is almost killed and buried. A woman who almost takes her life. Ithanda is about a broken family split between village and the city. It’s about people who have gone to the extreme and about others who rush to their assistance. Because where’s shadow, there will also be light. And only because memories have the power to catch up with us, we should not let them take control, should we?

Presented by: Heart of Arts
Written and directed by: Dumisani Siziba

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Age: No under 13
Duration: 30 minutes
Language: English, Afrikaans and IsiXhosa
The Pam Golding Theatre

River Of Life is an African fairy tale about a rural tribe and a special princess, who live by a beautiful river full of magical creatures. A glittering dancing trader comes from the city to sell the villagers strange items that cause problems for the river. The princess finds the courage to travel a path alone. She faces a hot dry desert, a teaming jungle and climbs the tallest mountain, all to save the life of the

Presented by: Jungle Theatre Company
Written and directed by: Mfundo Hashe
Performed by : Zizipho Gcasamba, Mario Matiya, Siyawandisa Badi, Noxolo Magadla

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Age: 16+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: isiXhosa
Golden Arrow Studio

A boy is raised by his single mother and violent uncle, but when she dies, he decides to leave his hometown. On his journey he is adopted by a generous lady and presented with new opportunities. Without having planned it, his search brings him not only closer to himself, but also nearer to his lost father.

Presented by : Lwamvila theatre organisation
Written by: Thinathi Bukhulu
Directed by: Sive Lingani
Performed by: Sive Lingani, Sipho Mahlakatha, Thinathi Bukhulu

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Age: 10+
Duration: 45 minutes
Language: English, Afrikaans, and isiXhosa
The Pam Golding Theatre

Hoerikwaggo tells the story of Knuckles and Smiley, two young baboons who are sent on an adventure from their home in Cape Point all the way to Table Mountain, on a quest to return a human baby to its family.

Presented by: Jungle Theatre Company
Directed by: Vincent Meyburgh
Written by: Stuart Palmer
Performed by: Mario Matiya, Beviol Swartz, Naledi Tlailane

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Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: IsiXhosa
Masambe

How did we get to the point where we are today? How did we come to be who we are now? In “Ndize ndize” (“I will come”) we follow the story of the Fana family where the parents live their lives through their children and the children’s lives are shaped by their parents’ past. Ukuthwalwa…is it a crime?

Presented by: The Ark
Written by: Nasiphi Ngxikixa
Directed by: Buhle Potela
Performed by: Nasiphi Ngxikixa, Buhle Potela

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Also performed on March 28.

Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: IsiXhosa
Golden Arrow Studio

“Imbiza” is a show starring two female performers, while transforming playfully from mother to daughter and from sister to girlfriend one thing remains unchanged: that it’s a patriarchal game, we’re all playing, no matter if we’re on the side of the allies or the competitors. Although fictitious, “Imbiza” turns out to be closer to reality than we would imagine it.

Presented by: Ikhwezi Theatre Group
Written and directed by: Masibulele Njeza
Performed by: Onele Kwele, Zipho Mrwata, Inam Duku, Elona Shumi

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Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: English & Isixhosa
Concert Hall

As if it wouldn’t be enough to be a teenager Nomvula’s life is even more complicated. Raised by her single mother, Nogcinile, money is so limited that she can’t afford new clothes or brands like her friends.

Presented by: Langa High
Written and directed by: Buhle Mbili

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Age: No under 13
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: Afrikaans
The Pam Golding Theatre

Rina is 'n eienaardige en eksentrieke middeljarige vrou. Sy en haar man, Dominee Koos Enslin, het 15 jaar gelede Moorresburg toe getrek. Selfs na soveel jare, sukkel sy nogsteeds om in te pas by die gehegte gemeenskap van Moorreesburg. Ten minste hou haar skilderye haar besig. Skilder is vir haar 'n magiese ontvlugting.

Vir jare lank sukkel Rina om swanger te word. Sy en Koos wil graag 'n baba van hul eie hê., maar na vele terugslae het Rina opgegee en aanvaar dat moederskap nie vir haar beskore is nie. Totdat Soufie in hul lewe gekom het.

Presented by: Chester Miggels & Northlink College
Written and directed by: Chester Miggels

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Also performed on March 28.

Studio Rehearsal Room

This year, the festival will pay tribute to writer, actor, director and mentor, Khayalethu Anthony, who passed away in 2022, with a screening of his award-winning production, The Champion. The production won the Best of Zabalaza award in 2013 and the Fresh Award for Writing in the 2017 Cape Town Fringe Festival.

Ticket entry will go as a donation towards the family of Khayelethu Anthony.

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Also screened on March 25.

Age: 13+
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: English & Isixhosa
Golden Arrow Studio

At a train station in De Aar, trains are coming and going, but three women remain standing on the platform. All of them are in love and waiting for somebody who is supposed to change their lives forever: a rich man who will rescue them from poverty. But the arrival is delayed again and again and soon suspicion turns into certainty.

Presented by: Ithemba Labantu
Written and directed by: Nonhlanhla Duda
Performed by: Nonhlanhla Duda, Palesa Moiloa, Lilitha Mzolisa

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Also performed on March 29.

Age: No under 13
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: Isixhosa
The Pam Golding Theatre

At the peak of his success, the young businessman Thulani returns to his home village to conduct the construction of a new bridge over the village's river. According to him the project shall be of historic significance and bring economic well-fare to everybody. But the only area where the foundation can be built is at the village's grave site. Who should be owning the soil that we’re standing on – the dead, the living or the yet unborn?

Presented by: PoniTale Production
Written by: Siyamthanda Poni
Directed by: Sindile Msebenzi

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Also performed on March 30.

Age: No under 16
Duration: 55 minutes
Language: Afrikaans
Golden Arrow Studios

“Unfiltered thoughts” is a story about six adolescents whose daily lives are filled with betrayal, fears, bullying, difficult decision making, and their struggle to understand where they belong. The expectations set out for them do not allow them to pursue what they truly want out of life. The only place where they can be honest about their dreams and self-images is in their minds

Presented by: Nekita Hill Written and directed by: Nekita Hill

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Also performed on March 28.