Also referred to as Johannesburg Civic Theatre, Joburg Theatre is a premier theatre destination in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, South Africa. It is a testament to the city’s rich culture and vibrant art scene. Originally constructed in 1962, the theatre underwent renovations in 1980 before finally officially opening its doors to the public in the year 1990s. For further development and modernization, including brand and market repositioning, it was thoughtfully rebranded in 2009. The theatre houses three theatres in it, which feature both international artists and local ones. Genre showcases in these theatres vary from comedy to drama to musicals, pantomime, and others, and production goes from simple ones to extravagant acts. If you are planning to check out this iconic attraction in South Africa, here is a guide to Joburg Theatre that may come in handy for your tour.
Things to do
One of the most cherished attractions in South Africa and a testament to the country’s rich culture and vibrant art scene, the Joburg Theatre will overwhelm you, not only with its magically entertaining performances and extravagantly colorful productions, but its structural beauty is another reason to admire it. Before going to the theatre, be sure to know what are the different kinds of shows you can opt for. These shows run during different times of the year and cover a variety of subjects.
Enjoy a musical show
When you visit the Joburg Theatre in the last week of January towards the first week of February, you might be able to catch the fascinating The Rise and Fall of African Gospel: The Clash Musical. It is a colorful and lively storytelling of two iconic African people that played a huge part in shaping the history of the country- Tiyo Soga and Prophetess Nonqgawuse. The story revolves around the fall of the nation of Xhosa, the influence of Western religion, and the decline in African gospel believers.
Marvel at a ballet
Featuring two of the most renowned names in the ballet industry, Vadim Muntagirov and Marianela Nuñez of The Royal Ballet will grace the stage of the Joburg Theatre to showcase a classic performance, called Don Quixote. Accompanied by Joburg Ballet’s to performers, this show will be presented in March.
Engage in a drama
If you happen to visit the stunning city of Johannesburg in April, be sure to check out the entertaining musical that is called The Color Purple. Inspired by the novel of author and Pulitzer winner, Alice Walker, The Color Purple talks about feminism. The story revolves around an illiterate African American woman who strived for recognition and empowerment.
Bring your children for a pantomime
A show for all ages, Janice Honeyman’s Cinderella is a magical pantomime that tells the classic tale of Ella and her obstacles to finding her prince. This is definitely a wonderful gift that you can give your family for the Yuletide season. The show will commence in October 2020.
What to eat
Surely, spending an hour (or more) watching magical performances, clapping your hands all throughout, gasping in shock, singing to classic songs, and swaying to the beat can be satisfying and can really make your day, but you need an energy boost to complete the whole Joburg Theatre experience. Lucky for you, the wonderful attraction has an on-site restaurant Stages where you can book and purchase palatable eats. Here are some of the dishes you can enjoy.
Rib and wings
A dish for guests with big appetites, rib and wings is a plate of chicken wings and juicy flamed grilled pork ribs, with a side dish of potato wedges, served with a salad.
The Big Grill
If you are not attracted to the previous dish, the Big Grill might excite you. It is a plate of a quarter chicken, grilled beef short rib, served with salad and potato wedges, as well.
Pizza
Stages also offers a variety of pizza, ranging from vegetarian pizza, beefsteak and mushroom, spicy chicken and peppadews, to Something Meaty.
Soup
Complete your meal with a hearty bowl of soup. You can choose a classic chicken and mushroom soup or go for an exotic Thai prawn and coconut soup. Additionally, beef goulash and potato soup and butternut soup are available as well.
Travelers tips
Parking space
The theatre’s parking space is situated by the edge of Stiemens Street and Simmonds in Braamfontein. The main entrance nestles in 163 Civic Boulevard.
Facilities for physically challenged
Joburg Theatre made sure to accommodate guests with physical disabilities. Some of their efforts include theatre rows for guests on wheelchairs, wheelchair entry points, ramps, toilet facilities for disabled guests, and more. Plus, service animals are allowed in the theatre.
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How to get there
Bus
If you are looking for an affordable transportation to Joburg Theatre, you can always take the public bus. You can take a Rea Vaya bus with a T2 or F11 signage as they both stop at the bus stop within a short distance from Joburg Theatre.
Hail a cab
Taxi is available throughout Johannesburg. You can hail a cab anywhere in the city, and direct your driver to your destinations.
Book an Uber
Just like most progressive cities in the world, Uber is available in Johannesburg, South Africa. Download an app, pin your location and destination, and wait for a driver to pick you up. Your ETA and fare are reflected on the app.
Johannesburg Tour Guide
Thabang Molefe
My name is Thabang Molefe, Director/ Owner of Tsalanang Travel & Tours. I’m a qualified National Tourist Guide in South Africa, born and breast fed in Johannesburg. I have worked in the sports & events industry where I discovered my passion for traveling, and later worked with some of the TOP destination management/operators in South Africa. I love meeting people, and exchanging knowledge, I’m an outgoing person who loves discovering and learning about history, culture and nature. As part of my value standard, I always try to change the way “the world” perceive certain parts of South Africa and Africa as a hole. I have traveled the southern African region extensively and speak various South African languages. Looking forward to meet you on one of my tours.
Tours by Thabang
How to get tickets
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
To book tickets online, you can visit Joburg Theatre’s official website ticket link. Alternatively, you can book tickets in some Pick and Pay Stores. If you have not already, you can always book a ticket at the theatre itself if you do not have pre-booked tickets.
Joburg Theatre information
Joburg Theatre
Address: 163 Civic Boulevard, Braamfontein, Johannesburg, 2001, South Africa
Official website: Joburg Theatre
Department of tourism: South Africa
History
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