May at the Baxter

The line-up at The Baxter this May brings a vibrant mix of theatre, music and comedy to our stages, with a powerful new South African work, some returning favourites and special once-off performances to keep you entertained and enthralled this Winter. We are super excited for the world premiere of Rise ’76: The Story of June 16th, written and directed by the multi-award-winning Tiisetso Mashifane wa Noni, which commemorates an important milestone in South Africa’s history, this is a must-see!!! We welcome back the much-loved Jive Cape Town Funny Festival, now in its 27th year at The Baxter and then there’s Puss in Boots to look forward to for the young ones and the whole family during the June school holidays and booking is now open. There are some great theatre options waiting to be shared with you to keep you warm this Winter.

We also begin May with the final performances of Stupid F#king Bird and Mamela Nyamza’s THE HERD/LESS, giving audiences a last chance to catch two striking contemporary works at the Baxter.

RISE ’76: THE STORY OF JUNE 16TH
From 8 to 30 May, the Baxter Studio presents Rise ’76: The Story of June 16th, a powerful new work commissioned by The Market Theatre and The Baxter Theatre to mark the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Youth Uprisings. Written and directed by Tiisetso Mashifane wa Noni, this urgent production draws on testimony, archive and lived experience to revisit one of the most important moments in South African history.

Artist & Student Special: R85 for performances 08 to 11 May 2026. Use Promo code: ‘Rise26’ at checkout.

Email Subscriber Special: R120 for performances 08 to 11 May 2026.

SHAKESPEARE SCHOOLS FESTIVAL SOUTH AFRICA 2026
From 6 to 23 May, the Pam Golding Theatre hosts the 16th annual Shakespeare Schools Festival South Africa, bringing together schools and youth groups in a joyful celebration of performance, language and imagination. It remains one of the most inspiring fixtures on our annual calendar.

THE JIVE CAPE TOWN FUNNY FESTIVAL
From 28 May, the Jive Cape Town Funny Festival returns to the Baxter with its winning mix of local stars and international variety acts. A firm favourite with audiences, it is the perfect way to round off the month with laughter and energy.

PUSS IN BOOTS
Looking ahead to the winter holidays, Puss in Boots comes to the Pam Golding Theatre from 26 June to 18 July. Brought to the Baxter by KickstArt Theatre and written and directed by Steven Stead, this lively family pantomime promises music, mischief, colourful characters and plenty of audience participation. It is a joyful theatre outing for all ages and a perfect show to book ahead for the school holidays. Book by 30 April and enjoy 15% off with this early booking special.