Marabi Returns: A celebration of South Africa’s musical heritage

South Africa’s celebrated musical theatre classic, Marabi, is back, promising audiences a rich and stirring theatrical experience. 

Set in 1920s Doornfontein, Johannesburg, the production follows Mabongo, a man torn between ancestral duty, poverty and the sweeping changes of the era. Complicating matters, his daughter Martha falls for Ginger George, a Marabi piano player, defying tradition and sparking family turmoil.

Against a backdrop where recorded music threatens live performance and war looms with hollow promises, Marabi explores love, legacy and the unstoppable rhythms of Marabi music. It asks a timeless question: “When the ancestors call, who dares to sing a different song?”

Presented by Molepo Theatre Projects in association with The Market Theatre, this production is a Junction Avenue Theatre Company adaptation of Modikwe Dikobe’s seminal book, Marabi Dance. 

The show bridges generations of performers, celebrates South Africa’s cultural history and promotes social cohesion through the arts.

Experience the music, history and heart of Marabi—a story that continues to resonate across generations.

Purchase tickets via Webtickets or the Market Theatre Box Office on +27 11 832 1641

This information was supplied by the Market Theatre

Did you know? 

The Market Theatre’s Market Square adds an exciting dimension to Johannesburg’s arts hub. Beyond its award-winning architecture, the square houses the Market Theatre Laboratory and Market Photo Workshop, offering drama students and arts enthusiasts a behind-the-scenes tour of productions and insight into the theatre’s vibrant history. In 2015, the architects KMH received the Architecture for Social Gain Award for their visionary design.

Details:

• Tour duration: 90 minutes
• Price: R20 per person
• Tours: Tuesdays to Fridays, 11:00–15:00

Booking and Information:

• Purchase tickets via Webtickets or the Market Theatre Box Office
• For further information, contact MTF Tour Guide Busi Letwaba: tours@markettheatre.co.za
• Visit markettheatre.co.za