by Saira Lortan
From a fruit market to a theatre, The Market Theatre is without a doubt one of Joburg’s most iconic venues. It’s a lot more than just a theatre; it’s an institution of South African history and performance. This is a spot every Joburger should visit at least once, but we guarantee you’ll be left wanting to go back for more. Curtain calls, costumes, props, and scripts, join us as we shine the spotlight on Joburg’s beloved theatre.
A Theatre Rich in History
The Market Theatre is the MVP of reinvention, because who would’ve thought a fruit market could be transformed into a theatre? Joburg’s Indian Fruit Market was built in 1913 and then converted into the iconic theatre in 1976 by Mannie Manim and Barney Simon. It went on to become internationally renowned as South Africa’s “Theatre of the Struggle” due to its breathtaking anti-apartheid plays. The Market Theatre has won 21 international and over 300 South African theatre awards. Sjoe, talk about unmatched excellence!
The Market Theatre has become a cultural hub for theatre, music, dance, and the arts. It remains at the forefront of South African theatre, continuously encouraging new works that reach international stages. Let’s take a look at what’s behind the curtain.
What’s On At the Market Theatre?
Are you still watching the same old reality shows and true crime documentaries on streaming platforms? Everyone and their auntie watches those, so be the cultured, sophisticated queen or king that you are and book your seat at the next Market Theatre show. Here are some current and upcoming shows guaranteed to entertain and evoke all your long-suppressed emotions. Whatever you do, don’t forget your tissues. Tickets can be purchased from the Market Theatre page on Webtickets.
Currently showing: Blues In The Night (5–22 February 2026)
This Tony-nominated musical is brought to you in partnership with Hattiloo Theatre, all the way from Memphis, Tennessee. It is a soulful journey through love, heartbreak, and resilience. The show follows three women as they navigate the consequences of a lying, cheating man who does them dirty. Packed with 26 marvellous musical numbers, this show is both a homage to an essential American art form and a timeless reflection on human strength.
Upcoming show: Isitha Sabantu (6–22 March 2026)
Isitha Sabantu is a fictional tale inspired by real-life South African eco-defenders. It follows two grandmothers, one elephant, and one human in their fight to protect their families and land from corruption and extractivism. This production is brought to you by Empatheatre, an award-winning company. It explores courage, community, and our deep connections with the land and our ancestors by blending research, poetry, puppetry, music, and myth. This highly anticipated show is a story of courage, interdependence, and the love that binds humans, ancestors, and other beings to the land.
Market Square and Market Theatre Tours
Remember those cool, artsy theatre kids that you were a little jealous of? The Market Square is where they hang out. Newly built, it is a campus for students at the Market Theatre Laboratory and Market Photo Workshop, and it has brought a welcome new dynamic to the arts hub in Newtown.
Market Theatre Tours offers arts enthusiasts and drama students a behind-the-scenes peek at the theatre. If you want to know what it feels like to be one of those cool kids, here’s your chance. Discover more about the rich history of the Market Theatre and get first-hand information about some of the exciting upcoming productions during your visit. The 90-minute tour runs from Tuesdays to Fridays from 11 am to 3 pm and costs R20 per person.
Tour bookings can be made via Webtickets or by contacting MTF Tour Guide Busi Letwaba on +27 11 832 1641 or at [email protected].
Make Your Own Theatre
Ever dreamed of putting on your own production, but didn’t have the resources? Get your director’s chair ready, because The Market Theatre offers costume, set, and props hire!
Most of the props and costumes stored in their facilities are from previous Market Theatre productions and are available for the public to hire. The costume collection comprises over 2,000 pieces, including Shakespearean dresses, tailored suits, South African police vests, and even everyday wear. To view the catalogue of costumes for hire, visit their website and email [email protected] for enquiries.
Details: Website | 136 Lilian Ngoyi Street, Newtown, Johannesburg, 2001 | 011 832 1641 | Group bookings: [email protected] | Instagram | Facebook