The Artscape Theatre is renowned for its world-class productions, ranging from captivating plays and elegant ballets to spectacular Broadway-style musicals. Following the success of 2025 hits such as Chicago, Dear Evan Hansen, and Mamma Mia!, 2026 is set to be another exciting year for theatre in Cape Town.
With a wide variety of productions on the schedule, several standout shows are already generating a buzz and are must-see performances for theatre lovers.
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, the Biblical story turned musical from Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, is hitting the stage in Cape Town this week.
Known for its high energy, vibrant colours and incredible songs, Joseph is a spectacular musical that follows the journey of a young dreamer whose faith leads him through hardship and betrayal.
This production will be brought to life by the talented students of the Musical Theatre Masterclass. This lively production highlights themes of hope, forgiveness, and the power of dreams. It shows how, even in the darkest moments, faith, resilience, and a touch of colour can make all the difference.
- When: 12 March to 14 March
The Leap
While the Artscape hosts several international productions, the local productions are always a great cultural experience. The Leap, a new South African opera by Marcel Meyer and Jaco Griessel, is only one example of the many local productions on the Artscape’s 2026 lineup.
The opera explores Ahmed Timol, the real-life anti-apartheid activist, in his final hours before his death in 1971. Starring Taylin Ramsamy and Brittany Smith, the show promises to be a bold, powerful work that explores themes of memory, history, resistance, and freedom.
- When: 20 July – 25 July
Pretty Woman: The Musical
One of the most exciting newer productions coming to the Artscape this year is the stage adaptation of the 1990 film, Pretty Woman. Adapted as a musical for the stage by Garry Marshall and J.F. Lawton, this 2018 production is finally making its Cape Town debut.
The stage play follows the same plot as the film, exploring the unexpected relationship that forms between Vivian Ward, a spirited Hollywood sex worker, and Edward Lewis, a wealthy businessman who hires her to accompany him for a week at various business and social events. Given the subject matter, the production has been rated PG-12+.
- When: 19 March – 19 April
Orpheus in the Underworld
Ballet is always a must-see at the Artscape, and the 2026 debut of Orpheus in the Underworld is a great opportunity to experience the art form. The Greek mythological story was first adapted into a comedic operetta in 1858, and now Capetonians can check it out as a ballet production at the Artscape Theatre.
This version of the story is a fresh interpretation, set in a 1920s world with nightclubs, flapper girls, mafia bosses, and Can-Can dancers. Choreographed by Veronica Paeper, this is sure to be a feast for the senses. The ballet promises a chaotic ride, with themes of love, mischief and divine chaos.
- When: 16 June
Mamma Mia!
2024’s production of Mamma Mia! Was a massive hit for the Artscape, and this year, it’s making a comeback. The jukebox musical by Catherine Johnson – popularised by the 2008 film adaptation – was a massive draw on both Broadway and the West End, and the Cape Town debut saw a great crowd and critical reception.
Featuring the songs from ABBA, this musical is sure to make you laugh, cheer, and sing along. The production features dazzling costumes, great voices, and grand set design, and is the perfect show for families or girls’ night out.
- When: 26 August
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