WHAT: Vincent - His Quest to Love and Be Loved
WHERE: Artscape Theatre Centre, DF Malan St, Foreshore, Cape Town
WHEN: May 14-17
The life and art of Vincent van Gogh is presented in a dazzling new light. Actor Daniel Anderson switches between a narrative voice and being Van Gogh himself, who speaks aloud as he writes letters to his brother Theo. By using reimagined versions of popular musical theatre, pop, rock and jazz numbers, this three-time Naledi Award-winning production creates a picture of a troubled man with a drive to create and a deep desire to love and be loved. Tickets are available from R180 via Webtickets.
WHAT: A Doll's House, Part 2
WHERE: Theatre on the Square, Sandton City, 5th St, Sandown, Sandton
WHEN: May 14-June 7
The critically acclaimed Tony Award-winning play A Doll’s House, Part 2 by Lucas Hnath arrives at the Theatre on the Square for a limited season from May 14 to June 7, starring an all-star South African cast led by Bianca Amato and Zane Meas. Presented by The Quickening Theatre Company, this witty, thought-provoking, and explosively entertaining play serves as a freshly contemporary response to Henrik Ibsen’s classic A Doll’s House. Directed by the seasoned New York-based Barbara Rubin (Kindertransport, How I Learned to Drive), the production also features Charlotte Butler (Isidingo, Green Man Flashing), Simone Neethling (Arendsvlei, Romeo and Juliet), and an award-winning creative team, including Greg King (set design), Maritha Visagie (costume design), Franky Steyn (lighting design), and Neil Kuny (sound design). In 1879, in one of theatre’s most shocking and iconic moments, Nora Helmer slammed the door on her marriage, leaving behind her husband and children in search of independence. Now, 15 years later, she knocks on that same door, needing something only her past can provide. Don’t miss this gripping, high-calibre theatrical event. Tickets are available from R180 via Webtickets.
WHAT: Marc Eugene Lottering at the Drostdy Theatre
WHERE: Drostdy Theatre, c/o Alexander St & Bird St, Stellenbosch
WHEN: May 16-17
Marc Lottering shares personal stories with the audience, as well as his findings on where he thinks his colourful family tree stems from. As is to be expected, his viewpoints are hilariously outrageous. This after his mom — when he was little — promised him they were all originally “blonde German-Caribbeans”. This critically-acclaimed work enjoyed sold-out seasons in Joburg and Cape Town, with many fans saying it’s the best Lottering offering yet. Tickets are available from R230 via Webtickets.
WHAT: Japanese Festival
WHERE: Menlyn Maine Central Square, 180 Amarand Ave, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria
WHEN: May 16-18
Step into the Land of the Rising Sun in Pretoria! Menlyn Maine Central Square, in partnership with the Embassy of Japan, invites you to the second annual Japanese Festival — a weekend filled with colour, culture, and captivating traditions. Here’s what’s waiting for you: Ikebana – the elegant art of Japanese flower arrangement; bonsai – nature’s poetry in miniature form; karate demos – power, precision and discipline in action; samurai armour – step into the world of Japan’s ancient warriors; uchikake – traditional Japanese bridal gowns, breathtaking in every detail; and much more! Whether you're a culture lover, curious explorer, or just looking for something beautiful to do with the family — don’t miss this immersive celebration of Japanese heritage.
WHAT: Sunset Music Series - Jeremy Loops
WHERE: Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, Malcolm Rd, Poortview, Roodepoort
WHEN: May 17
Get ready to experience the magic of music and nature like never before! Through May and June of 2025, the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden in Roodepoort will come alive with the Sunset Music Series — a captivating line-up of live performances by some of South Africa’s most beloved music artists. Join us on Saturday May 17 as we kick the series off with the phenomenal Jeremy Loops. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the garden’s lush landscape, each afternoon will offer a unique blend of uplifting melodies, vibrant rhythms, and unforgettable moments, creating a perfect soundtrack under the African sky. Tickets are available from R195 via Webtickets.
WHAT: Umtiza Arts Festival
WHERE: East London (specifically at the Guild Theatre, Dawson Rd &, Union Ave, Selborne)
WHEN: May 22-June 1
Get ready to mark your calendars! The Umtiza Arts Festival is back for its ninth year, and it promises to be an extraordinary celebration of creativity and cultural connection in the Buffalo City Metro area. Every year, the Umtiza Arts Festival provides artists a unique stage to display their talents. Across various art forms — from music and theatre to visual arts — this festival is a vibrant blend of creativity. In 2024, the festival saw participation from over 150 artists, with 60+ performances attracting nearly 10,000 attendees. Such numbers highlight the festival’s impact and its ability to inspire both artists and audiences. Visit the Guild Theatre's website for the full programme and book your tickets via Computicket.
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