Have You Seen Zandile?

SOWETO THEATRE AND SIBIKWA ARTS CENTRE PARTNER TO BRING SOUTH AFRICAN CLASSIC ‘HAVE YOU SEEN ZANDILE?’ TO BENONI.

‘Have You Seen Zandile?’ is a universal story of resilience that continues to resonate deeply with audiences across generations.  The production will be staged at Sibikwa Arts Centre in Benoni, offering a poignant exploration of South African history and the resilience of the human spirit.

Set against a backdrop of financial hardship and political unrest, the play follows Zandile’s journey, a story that delves into the complexities of love, the agony of broken dreams, and the enduring strength required to overcome adversity. Through a powerful blend of song, laughter, and raw emotion, the production brings to life themes of family, identity, and the search for belonging.

From 14-26 April, the ‘Have You Seen Zandile?’ production written by the legendary Gcina Mhlophe and directed  by the theatre- acclaimed MoMo Matsunyane, will be live on the Sibikwa stage. Schools, community  groups and theatre lovers are invited to book their tickets for R80 on Webtickets to see this cross-generational immersive performance come to life.

Meta-Morphed

Interactive Forum Theatre Production Engages Youth on Identity, Social Media and Belonging

This Human Rights Month, Sibikwa Arts Centre presents Meta-Morphed, a powerful Forum Theatre production exploring the impact of social media on identity, belonging and self-worth among young people.

Touring between 16 and 20 March 2026, the production is designed specifically for high schools, TVET colleges, universities, and youth community groups, targeting audiences aged 15 – 30 years. Rather than taking place in a traditional theatre, Meta-Morphed travels directly to educational and community spaces, allowing audiences to engage with the performance within their own environments.

In an age where screens shape self-worth and digital validation often replaces real connection, Meta-Morphed examines the complex relationship between young people, social media and identity. Created and performed by Sibikwa Arts Centre artist-facilitators participating in the ASSITEJ SA Social Employment Fund (SEF) programme, the production explores how online platforms can both connect and isolate – offering the illusion of belonging while intensifying feelings of invisibility, pressure and comparison.

Set against the lived realities of township life, the piece contrasts authentic community, culture and shared experience with the curated worlds of social media. Through the interactive methodology of Forum Theatre, audiences are invited to step into the story, challenge the decisions made by characters, and collectively imagine healthier pathways toward identity, belonging, and self-definition.

Educational institutions and community groups are invited to book the production to perform at their venue during the touring period.

Because the production uses Forum Theatre participation, smaller audiences are encouraged to ensure meaningful engagement and dialogue.

Impande Zobuntu – 2026 Stories Without Borders Storytelling Festival

Stories Come Alive This Human Rights Day!

Join us at Sibikwa Arts Centre for the Impande Zobuntu – Stories Without Borders Storytelling Festival, a vibrant celebration of indigenous storytelling, culture, and community.

Enjoy powerful performances from five of South Africa’s leading storytellers, Dance, a live DJ, Indigenous Games, and family-friendly activities.

Celebrate Human Rights Day through stories that inspire, connect, and uplift

Bells and Sirens 2 and As We Rise/#Me

Bells and Sirens 2

Choreography: Thapelo Kotlolo

Performers: Jabu Vilakazi, Keaoleboga Seodigeng

Music by: Thapelo Kotlolo

Description: A revised edition of Bells and Sirens commissioned by Sibikwa Arts Centre in 2023, this piece delves into the vibrant yet precarious world of queer club culture. It captures the sanctuary the club scene provides for young queer individuals, juxtaposed with the harsh realities they face outside this temporary refuge. Bells and Sirens 2 explores the tension between the freedom found in the club and the constraints imposed by societal norms.

As We Rise/#Me

Supported by the National Arts Council and the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture

Choreography and Direction: Gaby Saranouffi

Rehearsal Direction: Teresa Phuti Mojela

Performed by: Lucky Dance Theatre Ensemble (6 female dancers)

Description: This contemporary dance piece, premiering at Sibikwa, confronts gender-based violence and advocates for women to uplift and support one another. Through powerful choreography and an emotive narrative, As We Rise/#Me explores themes of solidarity and empowerment.

Final Urban Lab

Explore the Journey of Empowerment: The Final Urban Lab

Join us for the culmination of a transformative journey at the final Urban, Cultural, Democracy, and Governance Lab on April 20, 2024. Discover the impact of the Urban Labs project as we share key findings, insights, and reflections. Be part of dynamic discussions on community empowerment and collective action, and network with stakeholders from academia, government, and civic organisations. 

Don’t miss this opportunity to shape the future of community participation in local governance. RSVP now to secure your spot and learn more about this empowering event with Kelly Storom at conferences@sibikwa.co.za or calling 063 328 8025 / 011 422 4359.

Body Moves International Inclusive Dance Festival

Following a 2-week international inclusive choreographer residency, working with a professional ensemble of local disabled and able-bodied dancers, the new piece created will be programmed and performed as a double bill alongside the international choreographer’s inclusive dance company’s existing dance piece, followed by a facilitated post-performance discussion. Performances will take place in Benoni, Johannesburg and Cape Town. The festival also includes a hybrid dialogue on Dance, Disability and Democracy, as well as professional exchange and community engagement workshops.

Impande Zobuntu Heritage Festival

As part of this year’s Heritage Month festivities, Sibikwa Arts Centre invites you to Impande Zobuntu Heritage Festival—a dynamic event designed to celebrate the profound richness of South African heritage while embracing the vibrant spirit of contemporary creativity. This one-day festival is set to be a highlight of the month, bringing together people of all ages to engage in cultural exploration, artistic expression, and community connection.

The festival is designed to offer something for everyone, with a carefully curated program that highlights the diversity of South African culture and the innovative spirit of its people. This family-friendly event features interactive workshops, indigenous games, dynamic dance performances, a Traditional African Fashion Parade, and pop-up stalls offering Afrocentric products and food. Don’t miss this exciting day of culture and fun as we honor South Africa’s rich cultural tapestry.

Event Details:
Date: 28 September 2024
Time: 11h00-17h00

Location: Sibikwa Arts Centre, 13 Liverpool Street, Cnr Bolton Road, Benoni, 1501
Tickets: R100 for adults, R50 for 18 years and below. Group booking is available for adults at R250 for adults of 4.

Seriti Sa Basadi Festival

As a show of appreciation and celebration of the humility, strength and beauty in all women, this Women’s Month Festival offers pamper experiences, motivational talks, and self-defence, first aid, cooking and styling workshops for women to relax, share their experiences and learn, all while enjoying themselves. The day will end with exciting music performances that will bring the audience to their feet. Spoil yourself by joining us for a day of pampering, performances and celebration!

Sibikwa Book Launch

Join us for the launch of Sibikwa’s commemorative book Strategies for Survival at Sibikwa 1988 – 2021: Landmarks of South African History, celebrating over 3 decades of uplifting South African communities through arts, culture and heritage, and honouring all who have contributed to Sibikwa’s rich history.

Creative Industries Career Exhibition

Sibikwa invites Grade 11 and 12 learners and teachers to participate in an exciting opportunity to expand understandings of career paths and possibilities in the Creative and Cultural Industries, and ask questions to various education and arts institutions. While the Creative Industries are commonly thought of as performing arts and visual arts, there a host of related career paths available. Presentations by over 15 higher education, training and development institutions will showcase: Arts Management, Culinary Arts, Design, Digital Arts, Fashion, Film & Television, Hospitality, Lighting & Sound, Marketing, Advertising, Media, Performing Arts, Photography and Stage Management.