Spring is in the air in Cape Town! The weather may still be a little chilly, but that’s no reason not to take in a show or an exhibition – and there are a host to choose from.
CONCERTS/THEATRE/SHOWS
MAMMA MIA! THE MUSICAL
How can you resist it? The global hit musical Mamma Mia! is back, featuring ABBA crowd-pleasers such as Dancing Queen, Mamma Mia, Super Trouper and Take a Chance on Me. It’s an uplifting tale of love, friendship and family, set on a sunny Greek island. There’s a reason why this outstanding production was a sell-out in 2023 – get your tickets now and prepare for an evening of sheer joy, energy and feel-good vibes.
Where: Artscape, D.F. Malan St
When: 3 September-11 October 2026
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/mamma-mia-the-musical/
YOUTH CLASSICAL CONCERT
The 55th Youth Classical Concert features beloved classical masterworks performed by some of the country’s most promising young artists. Young singers and instrumentalists perform as soloists with the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of artistic director Brandon Phillips. Proudly sponsored by the City of Cape Town, this annual concert provides a platform for emerging artists to develop their careers.
Where: Artscape, D.F. Malan St
When: 5 September 2026
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/youth-classical-concert-4/
AMORE: A NEO CABARET
Amore features acts by amateur and pro pole dancers and aerialists from South Pole Studios. The show focuses on love stories, and promises to be “weird and beautiful”. Sexy and sensual are the key words here, but there’s no full nudity or simulated sexual acts. Under 16s are welcome at the audience members’ discretion.
Where: Star Theatre, District Six Homecoming Centre
When: 12 September 2026
https://www.homecomingcentre.co.za/events
BEHIND THE MUSIC WITH RODNEY TRUDGEON – THE THIRD MOVEMENT
Fine Music Radio, Africa’s only classical and jazz FM station, presents an evening with classical music presenter Rodney Trudgeon. In the final leg of a series of talks, Rodney takes us through the ‘Third Movement’ of his 50 years in radio, featuring music that inspires him. These intimate evenings start with a complimentary welcome drink.
Where: Artscape, D.F. Malan St
When: 14 September 2026
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/behind-the-music-with-rodney-trudgeon-the-third-movement/
WOMAD CAPE TOWN 2026
WOMAD Cape Town 2026 brings global creativity to the Artscape Theatre complex and venues across Cape Town. This festival of music, arts, and dance is a showcase of creativity without borders. There’s much to celebrate and remember in 2026: Artscape’s 55th anniversary, the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s 95th birthday, 30 years of South Africa’s Constitution, the 50th anniversary of the Soweto Uprising, and 70 years since the Women’s March to Pretoria. The headline event is the Desmond Tutu United 4 Humanity Peace Concert at the Artscape Theatre on 19 September, featuring a line-up of international and local artists. Other events include a lunch-time concert at the Central Methodist Church on Greenmarket Square (18 September), a Korean K-Pop Culture Concert at Artscape (18 September) and the New Generations Concert at Artscape (19 September).
Where: Various venues
When: 15-24 September 2026
https://womadsa.co.za/program-2026/
THE JURY EXPERIENCE
Step into a thrilling courtroom drama where the audience is the jury. As members of the jury, the power to deliver justice rests entirely in your hands. Debate the case, question the motives, and cast your votes throughout the show. Decide who walks free... and who pays the price.
Where: Star Theatre, District Six Homecoming Centre
When: 18 September 2026
https://www.homecomingcentre.co.za/events
IPASI TOUR – JABULILE MAJOLA
The IPASI Tour is the next chapter in South African singer and songwriter Jabulile Majola's artistic journey, a live expression of the growth and evolution captured on his debut album, IPASI. Expect Afro-folk and Afro-soul by the artist who gained attention by posting videos of himself playing cover songs on TikTok, including a rendition of Skinny Love by Bon Iver.
Where: Star Theatre, District Six Homecoming Centre
When: 19 September 2026
https://www.homecomingcentre.co.za/events
NO PLACE LIKE HOME
This original Cape Town musical brings together humour, music and compelling storytelling in a celebration of the people, neighbourhoods and connections that shape us. Set against the backdrop of the Mother City, the production was created by Loukmann Adams, Christo Davids and Jody Abrahams. Performed by a talented local cast with a live band, No Place Like Home is an honest, relatable and distinctly Cape Town story that will resonate with audiences of all ages.
Where: Artscape, D.F. Malan St
When: 22-27 September 2026
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/no-place-like-home/
FULL TILT – ZIP ZAP CIRCUS
FULL TILT brings together the energy of acrobatics, aerial arts, and a live band from School of Rock. Dynamic choreography, seamless aerialists and live music create a show that is both entertaining and deeply human. You’ll have a fast-moving experience filled with skill, connection, and moments that capture the courage and creativity of young people pushing themselves and each other, beyond their limits.
Where: Star Theatre, District Six Homecoming Centre
When: 23-26 September 2026
https://www.homecomingcentre.co.za/events
OUR BODIES REMEMBER
Our Bodies Remember is a double bill by Jazzart Dance Theatre’s 2026 Artistic Residents, featuring two new works, Unveil by Chesney Stanfield and Ancient Souls by Lihle Mfene. These works by a contemporary dance theatre company explore themes of awakening, memory, and transformation. Our Bodies Remember invites audiences to reflect on who we have been, who we are, and who we are still becoming.
Where: Artscape, D.F. Malan St
When: 15-17 October 2026
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/our-bodies-remember/
CAPE MALAY CHOIR BOARD CHORAL COMPETITION
Local choirs battle for top honours, including the prestigious Silver Fez trophy. Rooted in the rich heritage of the city’s enslaved communities, groups perform traditional folk songs. This vibrant multi-day showcase of a powerful musical tradition sees 3,000 active members across various unique communities take the stage. Storytelling, immaculate tailoring, and deep community pride are the order of the day.
Where: Artscape, D.F. Malan St
When: 16-18 October 2026
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/cape-malay-choir-board-choral-competition/
FIRST DATE: THE MUSICAL!
What happens when a cautious, relationship-minded guy meets a fearless serial dater for a blind date? The answer is First Date: The Musical!, a Broadway show making its Cape Town debut in a limited season. This laugh-out-loud romantic comedy features music and lyrics by Alan Zachary and Michael Weiner, and the South African production is directed by Byron Bure. Follow Aaron and Casey through an unforgettable evening filled with awkward silences and unexpected chemistry.
Where: Avalon Auditorium, District Six Homecoming Centre
When: 21 October-1 November 2026
https://www.homecomingcentre.co.za/events
ANKLE MARC
If you missed this show during its August run at the Homecoming Centre, now is your chance to catch up! Marc Lottering, one of South Africa’s top comedians, hilariously tries to tell the audience how it came about that he ended up in a moonboot. ANKLE MARC has been touring South Africa, and fans have been loving every second. Age restriction: 16 years and older.
Where: Artscape, D.F. Malan St
When: 23-24 October 2026
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/ankle-marc/
THE LEGACY OF DANCE GALA
Eight South African dance companies, accompanied by the Cape Philharmonic Orchestra, perform on the Artscape Opera House stage together with principal dancers from The Dutch National Ballet. The programme consists of the best from ballet, contemporary dance and musical theatre, including pieces by renowned choreographers Rudi van Dantzig, George Balachine, Martha Graham, Ernst Meisner and local choreographers Veronica Paeper and Sean Bovim.
Where: Artscape, D.F. Malan St
When: 24 October 2026
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/the-legacy-of-dance-gala/
DRACULA
Looking for something to do on Halloween that doesn’t involve tricks or treats? Catch this haunting ballet. Back by popular demand, after a sold-out run earlier this year, David Nixon’s Dracula rises once more to haunt the Artscape stage. Inspired by Bram Stoker’s iconic tale, this electrifying production draws audiences into a world of obsession, desire and supernatural power. The ballet is renowned for its cinematic sweep, Gothic intensity and physically charged choreography that pushes dancers to thrilling extremes. Age restriction: No under 13s.
Where: Artscape, D.F. Malan St
When: 28 October-1 November 2026
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/dracula-2/
UMNGQUNGQO ORCHESTRAL EXPERIENCE
Since its inception in 2023, the Umngqungqo Orchestral Experience has enthralled audiences across the Eastern Cape, with a celebrated appearance at the National Arts Festival. Following a sold-out triumph at The Market Theatre in Johannesburg, this groundbreaking production now makes its Artscape debut. Led by the renowned Dumza Maswana, Umngqungqo weaves together music, jazz, storytelling and orchestral grandeur in a celebration of African heritage culture, and identity. Umngqungqo, meaning “rhythmic dance” or “heartbeat” in isiXhosa, is a blend of isiXhosa indigenous music and jazz, drawn from Maswana’s celebrated albums.
Where: Artscape, D.F. Malan St
When: 31 October 2026
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/umngqungqo-orchestral-experience/
NATANIËL: SOOIBRAND
Nataniël, South Africa’s master storyteller and performer, unveils his latest Afrikaans stage creation, a musical look at life’s lighter discomforts, guilt, medical shocks, and the art of sustained denial. With his signature blend of compassion, humour and sharp observation, Nataniël examines contemporary arrogance, unhealthy inheritances, and everyday irritations with beautiful new music performed by pianist Charl du Plessis. The singer-songwriter launched his solo career more than three decades ago and has released 19 albums and staged more than 110 original theatre productions. No children under the age of 14.
Where: Artscape, D.F. Malan St
When: 4-8 November 2026
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/nataniel-sooibrand/
SWING WITH THE KING
SWTK is an annual gospel, jazz, big band and Cape Ghoema celebration. Under the musical direction of Brathew van Schalkwyk, with Fletch Wiley (United States) as conductor and Jolene Martin as MC, the production features acclaimed soloists including Hilton Schilder, Julius May, Roz Parker from the US, Wesley Rustin, Clinton Viljoen and Natasha Adams, supported by a world-class rhythm section, a 10-piece horn section led by Muneeb Hermans, and an eight-piece string orchestra led by Rayelle Goodman. The 2025 rendition of the event was hailed by local journalist Rodney Reiners as a “musical extravaganza… that has firmly cemented itself as one of the go-to events on the Mother City’s arts calendar”.
Where: Artscape, D.F. Malan St
When: 13-14 November 2026
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/swing-with-the-king-3/
BOOGIE TIME, BABY
A musical/comedy romp down memory lane to the Motown Era, the disco floors and the power ballads that typified the 70’s & 80’s. A local live band and dynamic local singers and dancers bring a touch of local comedy to the Artscape Opera House.
Where: Artscape, D.F. Malan St
When: 18-22 November 2026
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/boogie-time-baby/
ROMÉO ET JULIETTE
Cape Town Opera presents nineteenth-century French composer Charles Gounod’s Roméo et Juliette, the Shakespearean tragedy of forbidden romance and feuding. The opera centres around four key duets, focusing more on the love story than the courtly intrigue of the original play. From the electric spark of the doomed lovers’ first meeting to the devastating silence of the tomb, Roméo et Juliette is a sweeping celebration of romance. No under 5s.
Where: Artscape, D.F. Malan St
When: 18-29 November 2026
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/romeo-et-juliette/
FROM HANOVER STREET – A CONCERT COMMEMORATING 60 YEARS
Following a sold-out season in at the Artscape in February 2026, From Hanover Street returns to the stage. The production is the brainchild of the Broetjie My Bra Collective: Jody Abrahams, Loukmann Adams, Alistair Izobell, Emo Adams and David Kramer. Commemorating 60 years since the forced removals from District Six, this concert pays tribute to the music, memories and stories of a community whose spirit still lives on. Whether you missed it the first time or are returning, expect a moving evening of remembrance, reflection and celebration.
Where: Artscape, D.F. Malan St
When: 24-29 November 2026
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/from-hanover-street-a-concert-commemorating-60-years-2/
REUBEN T. CALUZA – THE B-SIDE
Reuben Tholakele Caluza (1895–1969) was once a household name in South Africa. Yet for decades, his legacy lay buried and forgotten in the musical archives. The B-Side, composed and rearranged by sound artist and composer Philip Miller and singer and musical scholar Tshegofatso Moeng, celebrates songs written in the 1920s-30s. After successful performances in Johannesburg, a live concert featuring Caluza’s music, with film projections created by the Brazilian video artist Marcos Martins, comes to Artscape.
Where: Artscape, D.F. Malan St
When: 24-29 November 2026
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/reuben-t-caluza-the-b-side/
COMEDIANS OF NATIONAL UNITY
After selling out shows in Johannesburg and Cape Town, comedy powerhouses Anton Taylor and Khanyisa JamJam are bringing Comedians of National Unity back to the stage for two nights at the Homecoming Centre. With their unique styles and undeniable chemistry, the pair deliver a show that's fresh, relatable, and guaranteed to leave audiences in stitches.
Where: Avalon Auditorium, District Six Homecoming Centre
When: 27-28 November 2026
https://www.homecomingcentre.co.za/events
OLIVER!
A show to book early for the festive season. Pieter Toerien and Cape Town Opera will be presenting producer Cameron Mackintosh’s award-winning Oliver! from 11 December. The famous musical, based on Charles Dickens’ novel Oliver Twist and featuring a score by West End composer Lionel Bart, tells the timeless story of the orphan Oliver searching for hope in the grimy streets of Victorian London. Characters include the cunning criminal Fagin, kind-hearted Nancy and pickpocket The Artful Dodger. This promises to feel-good family entertainment, so don’t miss out. (Note: no under-fives, though.)
Where: Artscape, D.F. Malan St
When: 11 December 2026-17 January 2027
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/oliver-cpt/
THE NUTCRACKER
Another festive season event to get in your diary early! The Nutcracker is a classical ballet that tells the story of a young girl named Clara who takes a magical, fantastical journey to a land of sweets where she meets the Sugar Plum Fairy, the Nutcracker Prince, and other whimsical characters. This Cape Town City Ballet version of The Nutcracker is choreographed by Veronica Paeper, with sets and costumes by Peter Cazalet.
Where: Artscape, D.F. Malan St
When: 11-30 December 2026
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/the-nutcracker-3/
EXHIBITIONS/EVENTS
CAPE TOWN PHOTOGRAPHY FESTIVAL
The Cape Town Photography Festival is back. Since its inaugural edition in 2025, the festival – themed TRUTH – has doubled in size, with 40 exhibitions, more than 160 photographers and a month-long programme spanning conversations, demonstrations, film screenings, talks, guided walks and more. New venues this year include the Castle of Good Hope and Company’s Garden. Festival highlights include exhibitions at the Central Library and the International Student Photography Exhibition, now four times larger than last year and showcasing the next generation of photographic voices across three venues.
Where: Various venues across Cape Town
When: 2-26 September 2026
www.capetownphotofest.co.za
OPEN BOOK FESTIVAL
Open Book Cape Town curates three multi-day engagements over the course of a year. The Youth Fest in March is followed by Workshop Week in June and the Open Book Festival in September. Around 60 events over three days include panel discussions with authors, children’s activity sessions, writing workshops, a book swap and poetry readings.
Where: Various spaces, District Six Homecoming Centre
When: 4-6 September 2026
https://openbookfestival.co.za/festival-programme/
ARTSCAPE MASTERCLASSES
As part of the Artscape’s 55th anniversary celebrations, the performing arts complex is offering a series of free two-hour Saturday masterclasses with a range of industry experts. The sessions will provide insights, practical knowledge and behind-the-scenes perspectives for artists, students, professionals and arts enthusiasts. Upcoming topics include “The arts are more than performance! Make a career in arts administration” (12 September), “Beyond the stage: Navigating government compliance in a public arts institution” (October 17) and “The Machine behind the magic” (November 14). Seating is limited, so booking is essential.
Where: iSibaya Room, First Floor, Artscape, D.F. Malan St
When: Until 14 November 2026
https://www.artscape.co.za/event/artscape-saturday-masterclasses/
PASSPORT TO THE UNIVERSE
Cape Town’s world-class Iziko Planetarium & Digital Dome is the most advanced digital planetarium on the continent, combining art, science and entertainment. On at 1pm on Saturdays and Sundays, Passport to the Universe explores humanity’s place in the cosmos through a spectacular voyage from Earth to the edge of the observable universe. Soar beneath Saturn’s rings, drift through the Orion Nebula and plunge into a black hole in this immersive introduction to cosmology. Other shows are We are Stars, Out There, Beyond the Sun and Phantom of the Universe. Check the website for times.
Where: 25 Victoria St
When: Saturday and Sunday until 23 September 2026
https://www.iziko.org.za/museums/planetarium/
IN SLAVERY’S WAKE
The Iziko Museum is hosting In Slavery’s Wake: Making Black Freedom in the World, a major international travelling exhibition led by the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History & Culture and featuring contributions from leading museums worldwide. Cape Town is the third stop on the exhibition’s global tour. Featuring 190 objects, 250 images and 10 multimedia exhibits and films, it presents a mix of historical material, visual art, photography, film and interactive elements to invite critical dialogue on the ongoing impacts of slavery and colonialism.
Where: Iziko South African National Gallery, Government Ave
When: Until 31 October 2026
https://www.iziko.org.za/news/in-slaverys-wake-premiers-at-iziko/
CRIT GROUP ART EXHIBITION
This exhibition at 99 Loop Gallery features work by abstract artists Xanthe Scout Lardner-Burke, Pia Truscott and Daniel Tucker, against a background of comradery, collaboration and critique.
Where: 99 Loop Street
When: Until 26 September 2026
https://www.99loop.co.za/events/crit-group
HIDDEN WONDERS OF THE IZIKO SOUTH AFRICAN MUSEUM
Explore one of the oldest and largest natural history collections in sub-Saharan Africa, with more than 10 million preserved animals, fossils and archaeological artefacts, from jewellery created from ostrich eggshells and given as gifts by our ancestors and a preserved specimen of the coelacanth “living fossil fish”, to a 3D-printed skull of a bear, now extinct, that roamed the African plains four or five million years ago.
Where: Iziko South African Museum, 25 Queen Victoria St
When: Ongoing exhibition
https://www.iziko.org.za/exhibitions/hidden-wonders-of-the-iziko-south-african-museum/
MATEREALITY V2
Beyond oil and canvas lies Matereality V2, a major ten-month exhibition. Featuring 70 creators and over 100 works across five rooms, this expansive showcase brings together leading continental voices. Experience how everyday and industrial materials, from soil and timber to sugar, wire, and salvaged consumer goods are transformed into profound statements on identity, memory, and culture.
Where: Iziko South African National Gallery, Government Ave
When: Until 30 June 2027
https://www.iziko.org.za/exhibitions/matereality-v2/
REGULAR EVENTS
DIPTYQUE FRAGRANCE & TEA EXPERIENCE
Daily
Craving an elegant hideaway, just moments from the city streets? Book now for a relaxed and sensual experience with Diptyque fragrances and luxury teas, accompanied by finger sandwiches, fresh scones with rose and strawberry jam, homemade brownies and artisanal macarons. Choose from a morning or afternoon session, for a minimum of two and a maximum of six guests.
Where: Labotessa Luxury Boutique Hotel, 5 Church Square
When: 11h00 or 14h00
https://labotessa.com/fragrance-boutique/
AFTER SHIFT FRIDAYS
Every Friday
Just Shift Café is a coffee shop and bakery by day and a bar and event space by night. On Fridays after 17h00 it’s After Shift Fridays, where you can unwind with cocktails and live music. There’s a happy hour from 17h00 to 19h00 on selected cocktails and beers. Find out about other events on the venue’s Instagram page.
Where: Just Shift Café, 54 Shortmarket St
When: 17h00-00h00
Cost: Free
www.instagram.com/justshiftcafe/
CAPE TOWN CRAFT CLUB
Regular events
This Mother City creative platform, founded by a textile artist and teacher specialising in sewing, embroidery, weaving and crochet, is about crafting, community and connection in a laid-back, fun space. Everyone is welcome, whether you knit, sew, crochet, paint or colour in.
Where: Various venues across Cape Town
When: Check founder Andie Reeves’ Substack for event updates
https://capetowncraftclub.substack.com/about
SUNDAY JAZZ JAM
Every Sunday
Wrap up your weekend with an evening of live jazz, creativity, fine wine and connection at Openwine’s weekly Sunday Jazz Jam. The event attracts both local and visiting artists. Sit back and relax to the rhythm while sipping fine wines.
Where: Openwine, 72 Wale St
When: 17h00
Cost: No cover charge
https://openwine.co.za/about
LIVE JAZZ AT THE ATHLETIC CLUB & SOCIAL
Wednesdays to Saturdays
Set in a beautiful old three-storey Victorian building, The Athletic Club & Social offers food, cocktails and splendid views from its balcony. It also has a great line-up of regular live-music performances in the basement bar, from Cape Town and African jazz to folk music, soul and other genres.
Where: The Athletic Club & Social, 35 Buitengracht St
When: 21h30
https://theathletic.co.za/
THE BLUE ROOM AT GRUB & VINE
Tuesday to Saturday
The intimate Blue Room live music lounge at the Grub & Vine hosts top local and international talent, as well as emerging artists, covering a wide range of genres. Join for dinner or just drinks and tapas while you enjoy the live music, ranging from soulful melodies to acoustic sets. Book ahead.
Where: Grub & Vine, 103 Bree St
When: 19h00-10h30
Cost: Cover charge of R200 per person (may differ for some artists)
www.theblueroomza.com/home/
EAST CITY SESSIONS & SUPPER
Every Thursday
Harrington’s cocktail lounge hosts its popular East City Sessions & Supper nights on Thursday, to the strains of established jazz acts and up-and-coming acts. Book via bookings@harringtonstreet.co.za.
Where: Harrington’s Cocktail Lounge, 61B Harrington St
When: 19h00
Cost: Free until 10pm; R50 thereafter
www.instagram.com/eastcitysessions/
SONGWRITERS’ SHOWCASE AT THE HOUSE OF MACHINES
Every Tuesday
This no-frills event has been taking place for seven years at The House of Machines, a mix of café, bar, men’s apparel store and motorbike shop. The Songwriters’ Showcase is an open-mic event, also open to performing artists and stand-up comedians looking for the chance to show off their talents. The event is from 20h00 to 23h00, but performers sign up at 19h00.
Where: The House of Machines, 84 Shortmarket St
When: 20h00
Cost: Free
www.thehouseofmachines.com/live-music/list/
SKY-HI RIDE
Ongoing
Adrenaline junkies can enjoy thrills and bird’s-eye views of the city on the Sky-Hi Ride from the 28th floor of the Hotel Sky, 146m above the CBD. Weather permitting, the ride is open to hotel guests and visitors, and you can purchase a ride or observer ticket. The breathtaking drop reaches a free-fall speed of up to 100km per hour.
Where: Hotel Sky, 9 Lower Long St
When: 12h00-20h00 (Tuesday to Sunday)
Cost: R200 per person via Webtickets
www.sky-hiride.capetown/
FREE CBD WALKING TOURS
Ongoing
If you’re keen to explore the CBD’s sights, history and culture on foot, while meeting nice people to boot, join a free daily walking tour with knowledgeable guides who work for tips only but are always ready to entertain and inform. The options are a Bo-Kaap Tour, Historic City Tour and Apartheid to Freedom Tour. You can also book a custom tour.
Where: Meet at least five minutes before starting time at the green umbrellas at Morning Mojo Café & Deli, 150 St George’s Mall
When: 09h30, 14h00 & 16h20: Bo-Kaap Tour; 11h00 & 16h20: Historic City Tour; 11h00 & 14h00: Apartheid to Freedom Tour
Cost: Free (but view the helpful tipping guide on the website)
www.freewalkingtourscapetown.co.za/
FIRST THURSDAYS
The first Thursday of every month, Cape Town’s buzzing galleries, restaurants and other venues offer curated art, music and cultural programmes and experiences.
Where: Cape Town CBD, including inside galleries and eateries
When: 17h00 till late
Cost: Free
https://www.first-thursdays.co.za/city/cape-town