Joburg theatre heats up in 2026 with 'CATS' and a powerful Amy Winehouse tribute

Theatre lovers have a fantastic selection of shows to choose from this week, ushering in the new year with exciting new productions. Following a highly successful run at the Artscape Opera House in Cape Town, the legendary musical “CAT” is making its way to Joburg.

Bolstered by Andrew Lloyd Webber's iconic score, this international smash-hit offering is also bursting with energy. 

The enchanting choreography, along with the superb costumes and striking sets, is another highlight.

Even more impressive is the local main cast of Cindy-Ann Abrahams as Grizabella, King B as Old Deuteronomy, Dylan Janse van Rensburg as Rum Tum Tugger and Che-jean Jupp as Munkustrap.

The supporting cast includes Stephan Van Der Walt as Admetus/ Macavity, Sibusiso Mxosana as Alonzo, Sipesihle Ngamlana as Bill Bailey, Tatum Coleman as Bombalurina, Tshepo Ncokoane as Bustopher Jones/ Gus, Michael Fullard as Carbuckety, Hannah Marshall as Cassandra, Darren Rockman as Coricopat, Brittane van Loggerenberg as Demeter, Morgan Marshall as Electra, Harry Smallman as George, Noa Duckitt as Jellylorum, Scarlett Pay as Jemima, Zoe Mclaughlin as Jennyanydots, Austin Tshikosi as Mungojerrie, Jordan Roelfze as Quaxo/ Mr Mistoffelees, Tannah Levick as Rumpleteazer, Logan Timbre as Skimbleshanks, Tania Mteto as Tantomile and Cassiel Eatock-Winnik as Victoria.

The swings for the production are Ryan Flynn, Jackie Lulu, Marco Titus and Phoebe Charles.

Pieter Toerien, known for hit productions such as “My Fair Lady”, “The Sound of Music”, “The Phantom of the Opera”, and the currently running “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”, expressed his excitement: “We are delighted to bring ‘CATS’ back to South Africa. It remains one of the most exciting and emotionally rich musicals ever written - a timeless spectacle that continues to inspire audiences across generations.”

Based on T.S. Eliot’s "Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats", the musical "CATS" is a landmark of theatre. When it first premiered in London’s West End in 1981, it broke records, ran for an astonishing 21 years with nearly 9,000 performances, and completely redefined the genre.

This show's universal and enduring appeal, which blends music, poetry, dance, and storytelling into a magical experience, has led to it being staged in over 54 countries and translated into 23 languages. 

To date, it has been seen by more than 77 million people worldwide.

At its core,” CATS” invites audiences into the mysterious world of the Jellicle Cats, who gather for their annual Jellicle Ball to decide which one among them will ascend to the Heaviside Layer and be reborn.

Where: The Teatro at Montecasino

When: From January 17 to February 22, 7.30pm. Weekend times differ.

Amy Winehouse - The Diva and her Demons

If you are an Amy Winehouse fan, this show is not to be missed. 

Winehouse passed away 15 years ago at the age of 27. A star on the rise, she had two albums to her name with 60 award nominations under her belt 

Known for her expressive and autobiographical songwriting, she is recognised for her distinctive contralto vocals and an eclectic blend of genres, including soul, rhythm and blues and jazz.

Revisiting her story, this tribute show captures the haunting brilliance and humour of a once-in-a-generation artist.

The cast includes Kerry Hiles on vocals and bass, Roscoe Nefdt on guitar and Kristo Zondagh on drums. 

Where: Theatre on the Square. 

When: January 15 to 25, 7.30pm. Weekend times differ.