Cape Town’s Royal Countess Zingara roared triumphantly into the heart of Sandton this June 2026, and despite the location change, didn’t skip a single beat.
From the moment guests step into the intricately designed Spiegeltent playing home to the show until the end of its run in December, they trade the city of gold for a land of glamour, sparkle and the weirdly wonderful, writes Lerato Botha.
Where the strange becomes usual and upside-down is right-side up
Perhaps one of the most impressive things about The Royal Countess Zingara is the sheer scale of the project. At every turn, there is something to keep you utterly impressed and entertained.
From the entrance, you are greeted by a number of whimsical characters, some of whom may be in the actual show. Before the night even begins, guests can wander through the expertly crafted immersive tent structure, which features a number of bars, a tarot reader and unique clothing and jewellery that’ll have you fitting right in amongst the cast of interesting characters.
Then comes the time for the show to begin. Guided by the charming and hilarious Sandman, the show introduces you to a cast of talents, from a contortionist to world-class aerialists from Cirque du Soleil, unbelievable balancing acts and roller skaters.
And just when you think you’ve seen it all, the resident magician may approach your table unassumingly before blowing your mind with awe-inspiring sleight of hand tricks that’ll have you wondering “how did he do that?” the entire ride home.
Dining that inspires socialisation
Each Royal Countess Zingara show ticket also includes a four-course meal. Before the show, guests are ushered to their tables, which they share with other Zingarians in attendance, encouraging a social atmosphere.
Upon arrival at their designated tables, each guest is treated to their first course which they can enjoy before the first Act, and it is here where everyone decides on their choice of a main course to be prepared in advance.
In total, the show features three glorious Acts, in between which funky and fabulous servers bring the remaining three delightfully crafted courses to each guest. The intermission is just as fierce as the show is, with The Clorettes (Edith Plaatjies, Andrea Anthony, Brandon Jonathan and Naz Leeman) keeping the crowd entertained with one-of-a-kind renditions of fan-favourite tunes.
Why you should attend
The Royal Countess Zingara is a party that never stops, with something to do at every corner. Nowhere else in Joburg can one find this rare combination of elevated dining, world-class performances and a social atmosphere marked by a sense of discovery. A dazzling spectacle featuring local and international talents, paired elegantly with expertly crafted dishes from a team of local chefs, this is the kind of night out that’ll have you reeling for days.
Running every Tuesday to Sunday until late December, be sure not to miss it while it’s here.
