Things to do in Johannesburg: Why live theatre needs to be on your list

Looking for things to do in Johannesburg? Everyone knows that Joburg is THE place to be for the art scene. Any art scene, whether you are talking fashion, paintings, architecture, or creative culture in general. Joburg just feels like a city full of the most talented, creative, and genuinely cool people you will find anywhere in South Africa. So when you are there, you really cannot not go to the theatre.

Number 32 of Things to do in Johannesburg

This is number 32 on our list of things to do in Joburg, and it is simply this: go watch a play. There are multiple venues to choose from across the city, and if a play feels like too much of a stretch, comedy nights and lighter shows are also on offer at most of them. There is genuinely something for everyone. See our experience here.

We went to watch a show called Rexana at the Joburg Theatre, and honestly the first thing we noticed was how empty it was for a weekend night, which was a little sad because this play was phenomenal. It was a satirical take on the current political climate, incredibly funny, but also surprisingly emotional. The actors took us through so many different feelings in the space of one show, and it was a really wonderful experience from start to finish.

What made it even more special was the experience of witnessing live art. We are so used to streaming and movie theatres that being in a room where everything happening in front of you is completely real, with no screen between you and the performance, feels genuinely different. There is a kind of magic to it that is hard to describe until you have felt it yourself.

Once we were done, we went outside to explore and discovered that we have our very own walk of fame! Did you know that?

Whatever is showing when you visit Joburg, go watch something. A play, a comedy night, a musical, anything. We genuinely believe you will enjoy it because it is just a different vibe to anything else you will do on your trip.

Bookmark this for your the next time you’re looking for something fun to do! Want more travel recommendations, both in and outside South Africa? Follow us @afor_adventures or subscribe to our food & travel blog – always honest, always helpful.