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As part of its landmark 50th anniversary celebrations, The Market Theatre will welcome members of the original Sarafina! cast for a special 56-minute performance during Let’s Meet at The Market Theatre, a unique theatrical experience forming a central component of the Theatre’s birthday weekend programme taking place from 19–21 June 2026.
Also see: Sarafina! first SA film to return to Cannes Film Festival
Let’s Meet at The Market Theatre is a celebratory journey through the history, people, productions, and stories that have shaped The Market Theatre over the past five decades. Audiences will be guided through significant moments that reflect the Theatre’s artistic legacy, cultural impact, and enduring contribution to South African society.
Recognising the profound connection between Sarafina! and The Market Theatre’s history, the original cast has been invited to present a special commemorative performance as part of this immersive experience. The reunion marks a historic moment, as the original cast members will perform together for the first time in 35 years, having last shared the stage in 1991.
Mbongeni Ngema’s legacy continues
Created by the late acclaimed playwright and producer Mbongeni Ngema, Sarafina! premiered at The Market Theatre in 1987 before achieving extraordinary international success. The production became a global cultural phenomenon, shining a spotlight on the experiences of South African youth during apartheid and establishing itself as one of the most influential and celebrated works ever to emerge from The Market Theatre.
Speaking on behalf of the original cast, Nhlanhla Ngema, younger brother of the late Sarafina! creator Mbongeni Ngema, said, “Returning to The Market Theatre with my fellow cast members is both emotional and deeply meaningful. Sarafina! is more than a production; it is a movement that gave a voice to a generation and showcased the resilience, courage and talent of South Africans to the world.
“To reunite 35 years after our last performance together, in the very institution that helped launch this historic production, is a fitting tribute to my brother’s legacy and to everyone who contributed to making Sarafina! a global BREAKING BOUNDARIES phenomenon. We are honoured to be part of The Market Theatre’s 50th anniversary celebrations and to share this moment with audiences old and new.”
Also see: Leleti Khumalo speaks all things Sarafina! before the movie premiere
Who are the original Sarafina! cast members?
The original cast members participating in this special anniversary celebration are: Baby Cele, Ntombikhona Dlamini, Lindiwe Dlamini, Sboniso Khumalo, Thandekile Mqadi, Kipizane Skweyiya, Nandi Ndlovu, Linda Mtolo, Lindiwe Hlengwa, Zandile Hlengwa, Dumisani Dlamini, Pat Mlaba, Nhlanhla Ngema, Congo Hadebe, Nkosingiphile Sithole and Mpume Shelembe.
Their participation offers audiences a rare opportunity to witness a living piece of South African theatre history and celebrate the artists who helped shape one of the country’s most iconic productions.
As The Market Theatre marks five decades of fearless storytelling, artistic excellence, and cultural activism, the return of the original Sarafina! cast serves as a powerful reminder of the institution’s role in nurturing groundbreaking work that continues to resonate across generations.
The 50th anniversary celebrations promise to honour the Theatre’s remarkable journey while looking ahead to its future as a leading force in South African and global theatre.
Also see: WATCH: Somizi shows off Sarafina! choreography
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