Cape Town will once again become a space for conversation, creativity and activism when the Artscape Women’s Humanity Festival returns this August.
Now celebrating its 20th year, the annual festival will unfold under the theme ‘A Place For All’, highlighting the importance of equality, accessibility and ensuring that women’s voices continue to be heard.
This year’s edition carries added significance as it coincides with two major milestones the 55th anniversary of Artscape Theatre Centre and the 70th commemoration of the historic 1956 Women’s March.
Honouring the women who paved the way
Women’s Month in South Africa has long been rooted in the legacy of the more than 20 000 women who marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria in 1956 to protest against pass laws.
That history will be front and centre at this year’s festival, particularly during the annual Women’s Humanity Walk on 9 August. Participants will walk from the Civic Centre to Artscape, paying tribute to struggle icon Sophie Williams-De Bruyn, one of the last surviving leaders of the historic march.
In a symbolic moment aimed at challenging silence around issues affecting women, participants will gather outside Artscape to remove tape from their mouths and collectively declare ‘Stop the Silence‘.
An accessible version of the walk has also been planned to ensure persons with disabilities can take part.
A festival that goes beyond entertainment
Over the years, the Artscape Women’s Humanity Festival has grown into more than a cultural event. It has become a platform where social issues such as gender-based violence, disability rights, workplace equality and LGBTQ+ inclusion are brought into public conversation.
Artscape CEO Marlene le Roux says the festival remains committed to creating spaces where people feel seen, heard and valued while encouraging society to turn policies into meaningful action.
Theatre, film and conversations take centre stage
Audiences can expect a diverse programme featuring theatre productions, music, dance, documentaries, exhibitions and panel discussions.
Among the highlights are the stage adaptation and launch of Bottelnek Breek Bek, the return of the popular drag spectacular ABFAB, and Bones, a documentary exploring the return of Sara Baartman’s remains to South Africa.
Rachel Kolisi’s documentary Falling Forward will also form part of the programme, offering a personal reflection on growth, resilience and rediscovery.
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Advocacy organisation Women For Change, founded by Sabrina Walter, is expected to lead discussions focusing on violence against women and social justice.
Books, choirs and women-led initiatives
The festival programme also celebrates literature and community voices.
Woman Zone will launch two books during the event, while choirs from universities, churches and communities will come together for the Voices in Unison showcase.
Other events include the Sisters Women’s Conference hosted by Radio Tygerberg, the Arise Women of Africa Symposium and performances by the all-female ensemble Women Unite.
In addition, Woman Zone’s Everywoman Project is creating two textile artworks to mark both Artscape’s 55 years and the 70th anniversary of the Women’s March.
A continuing call for change
As South Africa reflects on Women’s Month, the festival serves as a reminder that many of the issues women fought against decades ago still remain.
From gender-based violence to the struggle for greater inclusion and equal opportunities, the Artscape Women’s Humanity Festival continues to use the arts as a powerful tool for dialogue, healing and social change.
The full programme will be unveiled on 8 July 2026, with events taking place throughout August at Artscape Theatre Centre in Cape Town.
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