A powerful 
story about talent, loss and mental health is set to reach new audiences through Mr Duiker Sang the Blues, a theatrical adaptation of Dyondzo Kwinika's 2025 Dramatic, Artistic and Literary Rights Organisation (DALRO) Can Themba Merit Award-winning short story.
This new play-with-music follows the life of an exceptional jazz musician named Themba, whose successful career is overshadowed by personal struggles. Through the memories of family and close friends, the production explores family, friendship, memory and the complexities of mental health.
The production runs from 13 September to 4 October 2026 at the Market Theatre. The timing is significant as September marks nearly 60 years since the death of renowned writer Can Themba in 1967. Staging the work during Heritage Month also provides an opportunity to reflect on Themba's literary legacy while inspiring a new generation of writers.
Veteran actor Desmond Dube leads the cast alongside Nomathamsanqa Ngoma, William Harding and Tankiso Mamabolo.
Experimental and narrative-driven live music is composed by Yogin Sullaphen and Pertunia Msani.
Mr Duiker Sang the Blues is directed by Greg Homann, while acclaimed performer Nelisiwe Xaba returns to the Market Theatre as movement director.
The script reflects on the meaning of an artist's death while exploring grief, loss and memory. With death as its central theme, the production examines the psychological cost of creative talent and the challenges of balancing artistry, personality and celebrity.
It also gives voice to mental health challenges facing many in the creative sector, often hidden behind public success and the pursuit of perfection. The production argues that an artist's legacy should not be measured by tributes after death, but by the respect and dignity they receive during their lifetime.
Homann, who is also Artistic Director of the Market Theatre Foundation, said the production continues the theatre's tradition of adapting South African literary works for the stage.
"For us at The Market Theatre, adaptation has long been a powerful way of giving stories a life from page to stage," he said.
For DALRO, the production reflects its commitment to protecting creators' rights and promoting an environment in which artists are recognised and remunerated.
Tickets for Mr Duiker Sang the Blues are available through Webtickets from R110. Discounts are available for preview performances, groups of four or more, and all Wednesday performances.
This information was supplied by The Market Theatre.
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