An award-winning ensemble returns to the stage as Afropocalypse heads back to the Market Theatre for a limited season from 7 to 23 May 2026. The production debuted in 2025 and quickly grew into one of the most exciting works to emerge from the Market Theatre Laboratory in recent years.
Expect a layered blending of physical comedy, storytelling and elements of magical realism. the play follows a group of storytellers navigating an apocalyptic world through fables of resilience, humour and hope. It’s a bold, energetic piece that reflects both the unpredictability of contemporary life and the enduring strength of collective storytelling:
The growing momentum of Afropocalypse
This return season brings renewed energy to a production that has already built strong critical and audience momentum. Directed by Daniel Buckland, Afropocalypse has evolved from a student production into a fully realised professional work, driven by a dynamic ensemble of 14 performers.
The Impact of Afropocalypse has been widely recognised. It received six nominations at the Naledi Theatre Awards, winning Best Ensemble, and secured the prestigious Standard Bank Gold Ovation Award at the National Arts Festival in Makhanda.
With its mix of satire, movement and inventive staging, the show offers a layered theatrical experience that balances humour with reflection, inviting audiences to engage with both the absurdity and fragility of the world it portrays.
From the local stage to a global arts festival in Sweden
Following its Johannesburg run, Afropocalypse will travel to Sweden for the Bibi Biennial Festival, where it has been selected as one of only four international productions. The inclusion marks a big milestone not only for the production but for the Market Theatre Laboratory’s ongoing role as an incubator for emerging talent.
Afropocalypse draws inspiration from a wide range of South African voices and mythologies, from Credo Mutwa to Jan Rabie. This theatre work weaves together past, present and imagined futures into a vivid, often playful reflection on society. Through its combination of puppetry, physical theatre and ensemble storytelling, it creates a space where humour and catastrophe coexist, offering audiences both escape and insight.
How to book tickets
Cost: Tickets range from R110pp to R220pp, and book via Webtickets
When: Running from 7 to 23 May, shows at 7pm and 3pm
Where: Mannie Manim stage at The Market Theatre, 56 Margaret Mcingana St, Newtown, Johannesburg
Website: markettheatre.co.za
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 011 832 164
Facebook: @TheMarketTheatre
Instagram: @markettheatre
