Whether you're interested in watching a graceful ballet, experiencing a breathtaking opera performance, laughing yourself silly at a hilarious stand-up comedy, or are eager to see a popular production live on stage, Johannesburg is sure to have a show for you at one of its many theatres.
What Are You Looking For?
Theatres in Joburg South
Theatres in Joburg North
Theatres in Joburg East
Theatres in Joburg West
Theatres in Joburg Central
Theatres in Joburg South
The Lyric Theatre at Gold Reef City Casino & Theme Park
Located within the Gold Reef City Casino in Ormonde, is the luxurious 1 100-seater Lyric Theatre. This theatre will give visitors the feeling of the opulence, luxury and grace in Johannesburg with its plush fittings and rich atmosphere. The Lyric Theatre presents guests with top notch entertainment live from their stage, including world-class theatre, performances from local and international musicians, ballet, comedy shows and much more.
The Soweto Theatre
In the vibrant cultural precinct of Jabulani, the Soweto Theatre provide a platform for up-and coming talent to showcase their arts to the public and grow confidence in their craft. The theatre boasts modern technology and ample room, making it the perfect venue to hire. A lot of shows and events are hosted, so be sure to keep an eye on their social media and website for the latest news and lineup.
Image from the Soweto Theatre.
Theatres in Joburg North
The Teatro at Montecasino
The Teatro at Montecasino has played host to many world-class shows and performances from some of the best in the theatrical industry. A few worth mentioning includes the internationally acclaimed St Peterburg Ballet, Chicago, The Rocky Horror Show, Katherine Jenkins, and Chris De Burgh. At full capacity, this theatre can accommodate 1 870 people and is considered to be one of the 10 largest Lyric theatres in the world. Be sure to keep an eye out on their websites and social media platforms for upcoming productions.
Visit The Teatro at Montecasino.
Image of The Teatro from Montecasino.
The Pieter Toerien Theatre & Studio at Montecasino
Accommodating up to 390 people, this small and intimate theatre in Montecasino is the ideal destination for top-notch comedy and live music. Walk into the foyer, and they first thing you'll notice is the glorious old chandelier from the Alhambra Theatre, which has been salvaged and now showcased as you enter the Pieter Toerien. As for entertainment, talented performers that have graced the Pieter Toerien stage includes Tim Plewman, Alan Committie, Pieter-Dirk Uys, Marc Lottering, Moira Lister and Bill Flynn, just t name a few.
Visit the Pieter Toerien Theatre & Studio.
Image from the Pieter Toerien Theatre & Studio via Facebook.
The Theatre on the Square at Nelson Mandela Square
Within the Nelson Mandela Square, between The Butcher Shop And Grill and the Sandton Library, you'll find the Theatre on the Square. This vibrant 200-seater adds another dimension, as well as cultural enrichment, to the entertainment industry. And what's lovely about its location, is that you can enjoy your choice from a range of fine restaurants with international cuisine on the square or at the Michelangelo Hotel.
Visit the Theatre on the Square.
Image from the Theatre on the Square via Facebook.
Theatres in Joburg East
The Big Top Arena at Carnival City
Known to host amazing concerts featuring international and local stars, sporting events, and even conference dinners and commercial launches, the Big Top Arena at Carnival City in Brakpan knows how to bring entertainment to the East Rand! Their Festival Lawns also offer the ideal location for exciting must-attend events. The casino has brought big-name family fun to Brakpan, including the Great Moscow Circus and the Aussie Circus.
Visit the Big Top Arena at Carnival City.
Image from Carnival City Casino.
The Theatre of Marcellus at Emperors Palace
The Theatre of Marcellus at Emperors Palace is a 17 tiered auditorium, offering theatre-goers a lavish theatrical entertainment experience. Many international acts and local talents have graced their stage. To ensure that the theatre continues to showcase nothing short of spectacular, a R6-million renovation was done to guarantee that this world-class theatre remains one of Gauteng’s finest.
Visit the Theatre of Marcellus at Emperors Palace.
Image from Emperors Palace.
Theatres in Joburg West
Roodepoort Theatre
Founded in 1980, the Roodepoort Theatre is the largest theatre venue in the West Rand, and presents plenty of well-known and popular family-friendly and mainstream productions. These productions normally include hilarious comedies, dance shows, drama and theatrical performances, as well as musical tribute shows.
Image from the Roodepoort Theatre via Facebook.
Barnyard Theatre at Silverstar Casino
For a unique theatre experience like no other, Barnyard Theatre Silverstar is sure to have just the thing. Most of their shows are energetic, exciting, and love to get their guests involved by dancing or even singing along. There are shows regularly showing at this theatre, all you have to do is visit their website and take a look. Plus, they have a selection of specials to ensure you get more bang for you buck. Barnyard Theatre Silverstar also makes for a fun year-end function idea.
Visit Barnyard Theatre Silverstar.
Image from Barnyard Theatre Silverstar.
Theatres in Joburg Central
The Joburg Theatre
Everyone who has visited Braamfontein knows of the popular Joburg Theatre. This theatre offers visitors and theatre goers an exciting lineup of shows that's sure to delight audiences of all ages. Every year, their festive season pantomime productions, written and directed by Janice Honeyman, have become a highlight of the country’s theatrical calendar. The Joburg Theatre is also the permanent home to Joburg Ballet, Jill Girard and Keith Smith’s Peoples Theatre Company.
Image from the Joburg Theatre.
The Market Theatre
The Market Theatre in Newtown celebrates our heritage and our past, while also confidently looking and moving forward by playing a major cultural role for the African continent. This theatre remains at the forefront of producing and presenting amazing theatrical artworks complete with an authentic African artistic voice and African diversity.
Image from the Market Theatre via Facebook.
One might not imagine Kempton Park to be a hub of entertainment. However, you would be mistaken, as there is a ton to do around this area. Whether you are looking for family-friendly activities or a night out on the town, Kempton Park is the place to be.
What Are You Looking For?
Family-Friendly Fun
Nightlife
Outdoor
Photo created by fabrikasimf on www.freepik.com.
Family-Friendly Fun
Ice Skating at Festival Mall
Festival Mall boasts a number of family-friendly entertainment offerings, including the one and only ice rink on the east rand. Bring the little ones along to test their ice skating skills. The rink is open from Wednesdays to Sundays during school terms, and seven days a week during school holidays. It's the ideal spot for a kiddies' birthday party or family get together. Don't miss out on all the fun!
NuMetro 4DX Cinema
Nu Metro Xtreme at Emperors Palace is home to the biggest and best cinema experience in the country. Come and watch the latest blockbusters on one of the largest curved silver screens in South Africa (it's almost three storeys high!) NuMetro at Emperors Palace also boasts one of the few 4DX screens in the country. Feel every bump, crash and high velocity moment of the film at this one-of-a-kind movie house.
Visit NuMetro at Emperors Palace.
Theatre of Marcellus
Every Emperor needs his own arena. The Theatre of Marcellus is the centre of entertainment at Emperors Palace. Many world famous musicals, theatre shows and comedic acts have graced this stage, delighting audiences from all around Gauteng. The theatre seats over 1000 guests, making it the largest live performance venue on the east rand. Bring the kids along to see a show the next time you're in Kempton Park.
Visit the Theatre of Marcellus.
Barnyard Theatre
The Barnyard Theatre has a reputation for being the ultimate family-friendly venue. Bring the whole brood along to see one of the theatre's magical musicals or tribute shows at Emperors Palace. Order a few platters for your table and tuck into some delicious sandwiches, subs and pizzas while the show takes place just a few metres away. The Barnyard Theatre at Emperors Palace comfortably seats 400 guests and can be booked out for private events.
Red Roman Shed
The Red Roman Shed is one of Emperors Palace's biggest attractions. This 1592 square metre bunker hosts the popular Crafters Fair Market, as well as a number of live music shows, social events and private functions. Bring the kids along to indulge in yummy eats and arts and craft fare from over 140 stallholders. The market usually takes place over the first weekend of the month, from Friday morning to late Sunday afternoon.
The Crafters Fair at Red Roman Shed.
Nightlife
Emperors Palace Casino
Emperors Palace Main Casino boasts an impressive 850 slot machines, eight American Roulette tables, five Blackjack tables, two Poker tables and 10 Hold’em Poker tables. This is where dreams are made and dashed, promising an enthralling experience for all who dare to place a bet. Emperors Palace also offers various private gaming rooms and the elite Gladiators Poker Room to its most seasoned players.
Olympus Sky Bar
Situated atop the Peermont Metcourt Hotel, the Olympus Sky Bar quite literally transports you to 'the top of the world'. Come and enjoy the lush African sunset and sparkling city lights, overlooking the expansive Kempton Park suburb and beyond. Guests are invited to indulge in an array of expertly mixed cocktails, premium spirits, wines and the finest in local and imported beers. The venue also caters light meals for private events, consisting of tapas style dishes, including grilled satay skewers and mezze boards. It's the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy life's finer pleasures.
M
M (formerly Marc Antony's) is a bespoke Cocktail Bar and Craftorium at Emperors Palace. Here, you can socialise, unwind, catch the latest sports games and disconnect from the outside world. Live entertainment is provided every Friday and Saturday evening from 20:00 until 23:30, as well. M is the ultimate venue for weekend entertainment, leisurely cocktails and good times with friends, so be sure to stop by.
Newton's Pub
Newton's Pub and Grill offers fair priced drinks, tasty pub-style meals and a great atmosphere. This is the kind of place that people gather to de-stress and have some good fun. Come and make new friends at Newtown's or bring along your old crowd to enjoy a night out. Either way, you're sure to leave Newton's in a smashing good mood.
Outdoor
Pomula Park Nature Reserve
Spending time in the outdoors is proven to benefit overall health. If you're looking for a place to enjoy the great outdoors in Kempton Park, visit Pomula Park Nature Reserve. This relatively small reserve has a lot to offer, including fishing activities at the surrounding Blaauwpan Dam. The venue is child-friendly too, making it the ideal spot to bring the family over the weekend for some much-needed downtime.
Visit Pomula Park Nature Reserve.
Kempton Park Golf Club
Avid golfers will be delighted to know that Kempton Park boasts its very own 18-hole golf course. Rumour has it that this is where Ernie Els learnt to play golf, so try your hand at teeing off and you may just hit the perfect swing. Kempton Park Golf Club has approximately 800 members, including an active ladies and junior section. If you are part of a golf loving family, this is the perfect club for you and the kids.
Kempton Park is a city in Ekhuruleni, east of Johannesburg. Established in 1903, it is one of Gauteng's largest residential and industrial areas. At 149.05 square kilometres, Kempton Park is an expansive area of land. Let's take a closer look to find out all that the suburb has to offer.
What Are You Looking For?
Shopping
Entertainment
Restaurants
Hotels and Accommodation
Schools
Municipal Services
Conference Centres
Jobs
Property
Shopping
There are a number of exciting retail offerings in Kempton Park. Festival Mall is the largest shopping centre in the area, boasting a variety of stores, as well as the only ice rink on the East Rand! There are also numerous smaller shopping precincts scattered around the suburb, offering the ultimate convenience to residents and visitors. Bonaero Shopping Centre is located opposite O.R. Tambo International Airport, making it a popular shopping destination for tourists and business travelers staying at nearby hotels. So, whether you are visiting Kempton Park on a quick stopover between your travels or live in the area, there should be a shopping centre ideally suited to your preferences here.
Explore Shopping in Kempton Park.
Entertainment In Kempton Park
Like most suburbs on the East Rand, Kempton Park offers a range of family-friendly activities to keep you and the kids busy over weekends. Of course, there is the aforementioned ice rink at Festival Mall, as well as a variety of entertainment venues at the popular Emperors Palace Casino. Bring the kids along to enjoy an enthralling 4DX cinema experience at NuMetro Emperors Palace or catch a live theatre show at the Theatre of Marcellus. Golfers can enjoy a few rounds at the Kempton Park Golf Club, while outdoor adventurists should take a drive to Blaauwpan Dam at the Pomula Park Nature Reserve. All in all, the area offers an exciting array of indoor and outdoor activities for all ages.
Explore Entertainment in Kempton Park.
Restaurants
Kempton Park offers a wide variety of dining options. From Friday night takeaways to romantic dinners, the restaurants here are as diverse as any other suburb in Gauteng. Take a culinary journey through Italy, the Mediterranean, Thailand, India and America all without leaving the East Rand. It is also home to the renowned Croydon Bakery. Be sure to stop by early on a Saturday morning to get your hands on freshly baked bread, cakes and pies. Their red velvet cupcake is said to be simply divine, so don't miss out!
Explore Restaurants in Kempton Park.
Hotels & Accommodation
Thanks to its proximity to O.R. Tambo International Airport, Kempton Park is filled with hotels, lodges, B&Bs and backpackers accommodations. Emperors Palace has four luxury hotels to choose from, each within five to 10 minutes drive from the airport and Gautrain station. From here, you can travel directly to Sandton, Johannesburg Central, Rosebank or Pretoria. Ultimately, this area is the ideal place to stay for business travelers and tourists as it offers quality accommodation at budget prices, a range of fun activities and accessibility to the nearby Central Business District.
Explore Hotels & Accommodation in Kempton Park.
Schools In Kempton Park
Kempton Park has 10 major schools, namely Hoërskool Jeugland, Hoërskool Kempton Park, Rhodesfield High School, Hoërskool Birchleigh, Norkem Park High, Sir Pierre van Ryneveld, Shangri-La Academy, Sonrise Christian School, Cresslawn Primary School and Maranatha Christian School. The area is also home to Ekhuruleni West College, a TVET training college for students looking to further their studies in trade subjects.
Explore Schools in Kempton Park.
Photo created on www.freepik.com.
Municipal Services
The Ekhuruleni Metropolitan Municipality offices are situated in the area. You can visit their Customer Care Centre for assistance with a range of services, including payment and account-related services and lodging and following up of all complaints. If you have outstanding traffic fines to settle, visit the EMPD Municipal Court in the centre of town. To renew your driver's license, pop by the Kempton Park License and Testing Office.
Explore Municipal Services in Kempton Park.
Photo created by moviafilmes - www.freepik.com.
Conference Centres
Courtesy of its many nearby hotels, Kempton Park has a number of conference centres and meeting rooms available for small, medium and large gatherings. These conference centres are the ideal location to host an international convention, as O.R. Tambo International Airport is just a few kilometres away. Most of the hotels in the area offer free shuttle services to and from the airport, so your guests needn't worry about transportation. So, if you're looking for a professional, modern and convenient spot to host an event, look no further than this suburb.
Explore Conference Centres in Kempton Park.
Photo created by tzido on www.freepik.com.
Jobs
The job market in this area is wide-ranging, offering a number of opportunities for both school leavers and graduates. There are a variety of industries in the area, including trades work, industrial management, manufacturing, sales and retail. Due to its close proximity to the Gautrain station, the area is also sought after by many for ease of convenience. Many residents either commute to Sandton, Rosebank or Pretoria from here, as well.
Explore Jobs in Kempton Park.
Property In Kempton Park
First-time home buyers should take a drive through the area. Whether you are in the market for an apartment, townhouse or forever family home, the area offers an array of property types. These listings often sell for reasonably low rates compared to other areas of Gauteng and greater Johannesburg. This is not to say that the property here is worth less than a Sandton apartment, but you certainly get bang for your buck. Sounds like a bargain to us!
Explore Property in Kempton Park.
What Is It?
The music of Neil Diamond transcends time and space - with a legion of fans worldwide, this iconic crooner has enjoyed a 50 year career! Now, you can enjoy the sounds of Neil Diamond in this ultimate tribute show at Emperors Palace. Bring your grannies, aunties and friends to experience a cast of talented musicians performing his greatest hits, including 'Love on the Rocks', 'Sweet Caroline', 'Forever in Blue Jeans', 'Red Red Wine', 'I'm a Believer' and many more! Get your tickets now.
When Is It?
Saturday, 18 April 2020 at 20:00
Where Is It?
Theatre of Marcellus, Emperors Palace, 64 Jones Rd, Kempton Park, Ekhuruleni.
How Much Is It?
Tickets cost R120 - R470 per person. Book yours here.
For more information
Click here for more information.
Details: +27 (0) 11 928 1000
What Is It?
Enjoy the sweet melodies of Sound Of Celebration VI by the amazing Sydenham Highlands-North Community Centre.
They are really going to be bringing it and setting the bar high; as they always do so you can expect something amazing. They will move your heart.
When Is It?
Tuesday, 25 February 2020 at 19:45.
Where Is It?
Emperors Palace, Theatre Of Marcellus, 64 Jones Rd, Kempton Park, Johannesburg.
How Much Is It?
Tickets are R70 - R130 per person, get yours here.
For More Information
For more information, visit here
What Is It?
Direct from Australia, Showtime invites you to dance your way into a time warp of 70's disco dance floor thrillers and timeless heartfelt rock ballads with The Bee Gees Night Fever! Night Fever is jetting into town to recreate the Bee Gees 1997 One Night Only Las Vegas concert experience in a theatre-style production with over two hours of live engaging entertainment. Showcased through vibrant state-of-the-art lighting, digital display screens, impeccable sound. Of course, the show is championed by a handpicked international cast. So, prepare to be immersed into the disco era with exquisite trio harmonies and the iconic high-pitched Bee Gees falsetto that we all know and love.
With disco tracks like Night Fever, Stayin' Alive, You Should Be Dancin' and best-loved ballads like How Deep Is Your Love, I Started a Joke and Tragedy, The Bee Gees Night Fever is not to be missed!
When Is It?
Friday, 24 January 2020 - Friday, 31 January 2020.
Where Is It?
Theatre of Marcellus, Emperors Palace, 64 Jones Rd, Kempton Park, Ekurhuleni, Gauteng.
How Much Is It?
Tickets cost R144 - R520 per person on Computicket.
For more information
Click here for more information.
Call the Box Office on +27 (0) 11 928 1000.
Alice In Wonderland At Pieter Toerien Theatre
Lewis Carroll's much-loved classic comes to the Pieter Toerien Theatre at Montecasino just before the school holidays officially kick off. Alice In Wonderland is the ideal child-friendly theatre show to take the kiddies to this autumn. Get ready to go on an adventure with Alice as she follows the white rabbit and comes face to face with the blue caterpillar and the grinning Cheshire cat. Join her as she sips tea with the maddening Mad Hatter and plays croquet with the tricky Queen of Hearts. This is not to be missed!
Alice in Wonderland will be on stage from Thursday, 27 February 2020 – Sunday, 22 March 2020.
Tickets cost between R130 – R180 per person. Book yours here.
Details: 011 511 1988 | [email protected] | Montecasino, 1 Montecasino Boulevard, Fourways, Johannesburg.
The Jungle Book Kids At The Peoples Theatre
The Peoples Theatre celebrate their 20th anniversary at the Joburg Theatre complex with The Jungle Book Kids! Bringing this ultimate Disney classic to vibrant life on stage from Saturday, 07 March - Sunday, 26 April 2020. Come and see Mowgli, Baheera, Baloo and King Louie rumble about the jungle in fear of the mighty Sheer Khan. It's a smashing good show. Read our review of the show here.
Book your tickets by contacting 011 403 1563/2340 or [email protected]
Details: 011 403-1563 / 2340 | Joburg Theatre Complex, Cnr Hoofd and Loveday Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg.
Aesop's Fables At The National Children’s Theatre
The National Children's Theatre in Parktown should be your first go-to for top quality children's theatre shows. These school holidays, they will be showcasing Aesop's classic tales, including The Tortoise and the Hare, The Fox and the Grapes and The Boy Who Cried Wolf. On Saturday, 28 March 2020, the National Children's Theatre will host an Aesop's Fable dress up party for kiddies and parents! Come dressed as your favourite characters and stand to win an array of prizes.
The show will run from Wednesday, 11 March 2020 – Sunday, 26 April 2020.
Tickets cost R100 per person. Book your tickets by emailing [email protected]
Details: 011 484 1584/5 | 3 Junction Avenue, Parktown, Johannesburg.
Swan Lake At The Teatro Montecasino
Do you have any little ballerinas in your brood? Bring them along to see the St Petersburg Ballet perform Swan Lake at the Teatro between Wednesday, 22 April 2020 to Friday, 01 May 2020. Swan Lake is a classic love story at heart. Come and marvel at the handsome Prince Siegfried and his Swan Princess Odette, torn apart by the villainous sorcerer Rothbart, in a story where true love conquers all.
Please note that the St Petersburg Ballet will be performing the full-length version of Swan Lake, so perhaps this show is best suited to older kiddies who are able to sit still for longer periods.
Tickets cost between R250 - R690 per person on Computicket.
Details: 011 510 7398 | 1 Montecasino Boulevard, Fourways, Johannesburg.
Schools Setwork And Literary Festival At The Joburg Theatre
While the kids may not want anything to do with their setworks while on holiday, the Schools Setwork and Literary Festival at Joburg Theatre is a definite must. Bringing literature to life, this two week long festival aims to bridge the gap between the classroom and childhood literacy statistics.
Bring the kids along to see Shakespeare's Macbeth retold using African proverbs and storytelling methods. Athol Fugard's My Children, My Africa will also be brought to life on stage by Shakeexperience during the second week of the festival.
This festival encourages children to engage with their setworks in new ways and allows them space to debate and re-think classic stories. There will be guided workshops, book exchanges and a mini literature fair throughout the festival, too. Visit the Schools Setwork and Literary Festival at Joburg Theatre between Tuesday, 21 April 2020 - Friday, 01 May 2020.
Tickets cost R90 per person for each show. Book yours here.
Details: 0861 670 670 | [email protected] | 163 Civic Boulevard, Braamfontein, Johannesburg.
Do you know of any other kids theatre shows happening in the city? Let us know about them!
Remember that our “Top Picks” are not paid for and are compiled at the discretion of the journalist. We only write about what we love.
What Is It?
Over the past two decades BURN THE FLOOR has revolutionised classical Ballroom style. Combining jaw-dropping choreography and ground breaking moves, this dance group bring their now famous, infectious and rebellious energy to the stage every single night. From a seriously romantic Waltz, to a futuristic Foxtrot, the passion of the Tango and Paso Doble cut right through. You revel in the emotional power of the Cha Cha, the Samba and Jive. Meanwhile, our smoking, irresistible Rumba always leaves you breathless. Our electrifying production, lights, costumes and eclectic live music will have you leaping right out of your seat. This is not just a “feel-good” performance, but seriously “feel-fantastic” show. Don’t miss your chance to experience the pure dance joy of BURN THE FLOOR!
When Is It?
Thursday, 22 August - Sunday, 8 September 2019.
Show times:
Thursday, Friday, Saturday - 20:00
Saturday and Sunday matinee - 14:00
Where Is It?
Theatre of Marcellus, Emperor's Palace, 64 Jones Road, Kempton Park, Johannesburg.
How Much Is It?
Tickets cost R280 per person. Winners circle members receive a discount on tickets. A show and meal combo ticket, cost R520 per person.
Book your tickets on the Emperors Palace website.
For More Information
For more information, click here.
What Is It?
Starring Brendan Peyper as Buddy, Buddy has been enjoyed by millions around the world and tells the story of the tragically short life of Buddy Holly, who along with his high-school friends, The Crickets, turned country music upside down to create some of the best rock ‘n roll songs ever written. Share Buddy’s frustrations through his first recording contract; the excitement America felt when ‘That’ll Be The Day’ hit number 1 on the charts; his naïve determination to be the first white act to play the Apollo Theatre, Harlem; his whirlwind romance and marriage to Maria Elena; concluding with the ill-fated ‘Winter Dance Party’ tour of the Midwest and what in theatre must be one of the most incredible musical concerts of all-time.
When Is It?
Thursday, 17 May 2018 - Sunday, 10 June 2018. Shows at 20:00 and 15:00 and 19:00 on weekends.
Where Is It?
Theatre of Marcellus, Emperors Palace, 64 Jones Road, Kempton Park, Johannesburg.
How Much Is It?
Tickets from R300 per person and are available from Computicket. Dinner and show packages available. Accommodation special also available.
For More Information
For more information about this show, visit www.emperorspalace.com.