Market Theatre marks golden milestone!

THE Market Theatre is about to turn a whopping 50 years old.

The theatre, known to have given many Mzansi actors and playwrights a platform, will be turning 50 in February 2026 and plans are afoot to celebrating the milestone.

Artistic Director at The Market Theatre Foundation Greg Homann said they are dedicating this year to mentoring up-and-coming playwrights.

“As we approach The Market Theatre Foundation’s 50th year in 2026, we continue to strengthen our legacy as a crucible for South African storytelling, presenting a dynamic and diverse array of productions, festivals, exhibitions, artistic collaborations, and development and training initiatives that shape the national cultural landscape and beyond.

“Our 2025 programme builds upon this rich tradition, fostering bold new voices while making visible powerful narratives that resonate with contemporary audiences,” said Greg.

They are dedicating this year to training new playwrights who will bring fresh ideas and new stories to the theatre and Mzansi.

“In 2025, our Play Development Programme will expand its reach, inviting 12 playwrights with strong new ideas to join the next cycle of Associate Playwrights. This initiative supports entry to mid-career playwrights in developing their scripts within a collaborative environment, with mentorship.

“Additionally, the programme is calling for unproduced full-length plays from writers across South Africa, with up to 40 selected for Reader’s Reports and some advancing to further development or production,” he said.

Greg said focus on their usual programmes for the youth won’t change.

“Our investment in emerging artists continues through The Market Theatre Laboratory, which nurtures the next generation of theatre-makers. The students’ presentation of Afro-apocalypse at the National Arts Festival and ongoing Saturday showcases create a space for artistic experimentation and risk-taking.

“The Windybrow Arts Centre’s targeted engagement with young people in and around the inner-city continues to create much-needed access to the arts. With impactful initiatives such as the Spelling Bee and meaningful collaborations with local and global partnerships, WAC’s commitment to shaping the future of South Africa will continue in the current artistic year,” he said.