Market Theatre | Johannesburg

The Market Theatre is one of South Africa's most iconic and influential cultural landmarks, located in the heart of Johannesburg. Established in 1976, the Market Theatre has played a significant role in the country's arts and culture scene, particularly during the apartheid era, when it became known as a place of resistance, social commentary, and creative expression.

1. Historical Background

The Market Theatre is housed in what was originally Johannesburg's old produce market, which was built in 1913. The building was repurposed in the 1970s to house the theatre, and it quickly became a symbol of defiance against the oppressive regime of apartheid. The theatre's establishment was led by an ensemble of visionary South African artists, including Dr. John Kani, Winston Ntshona, and Athol Fugard, who would go on to become major figures in the world of South African theatre.

During apartheid, the Market Theatre was one of the few venues where black South African playwrights and actors could perform, and it was known for its politically charged plays that addressed social issues such as race, inequality, and human rights. The theatre gained a reputation for producing works that directly challenged apartheid laws and offered a platform for marginalized voices.

2. Political Significance

The Market Theatre was a key player in the cultural resistance against apartheid. It was often referred to as the "Theatre of the Struggle" because of its commitment to producing plays that directly confronted the injustices of apartheid and gave a voice to the oppressed. The theatre became a meeting point for activists, artists, and intellectuals who sought to use art as a form of protest and social change.

One of the most famous plays associated with the Market Theatre during the apartheid era was "Sizwe Banzi Is Dead" (1972), written by Athol Fugard, John Kani, and Winston Ntshona. The play dealt with the struggles of a black South African who was trying to survive under the restrictive pass laws that controlled the movement of black people. It was a landmark work that highlighted the indignities and hardships of apartheid, and its success helped bring international attention to the theatre and the political messages it conveyed.

3. Legacy of South African Theatre

The Market Theatre remains a powerful symbol of South Africa's cultural heritage and the country’s long struggle for freedom and equality. Over the years, it has hosted numerous influential productions that have shaped the development of South African theatre. Works by playwrights such as Athol Fugard, Zakes Mda, Reza de Wet, and Fugard's The Island have all been performed at the Market Theatre, as well as works from international playwrights that deal with themes of injustice, oppression, and humanity.

The theatre’s role in shaping the national conversation around race, politics, and identity cannot be overstated. It served as a space for cultural activism and continues to be an important venue for contemporary South African theatre, showcasing both local and international productions that explore a range of social issues.

4. Theatre Facilities and Performance Spaces

The Market Theatre complex comprises several performance spaces, each designed to cater to different types of productions. The main theatre spaces include:

The Market Theatre: The primary theatre, which has a large seating capacity and is where the major productions are staged. It is renowned for its intimate, powerful atmosphere that enhances the audience's connection to the performance.

The Barney Simon Theatre: A smaller, more intimate venue within the complex. It is named after Barney Simon, a prominent South African theatre director, and is designed for more experimental and cutting-edge performances.

The Mannie Manim Theatre: Another of the theatre's venues that serves as a space for contemporary and innovative works.

The venue's layout and acoustics are designed to provide an immersive experience for both performers and the audience, and it remains a popular place for avant-garde performances and productions that challenge traditional norms.

5. The Market Theatre's Cultural Impact

The Market Theatre has been pivotal in the promotion and development of South African theatre and culture. It has played a significant role in elevating the profile of South African arts globally, with numerous productions being staged in international venues. The theatre regularly hosts both established and emerging South African artists, offering them a platform to showcase their work.

In addition to theatre productions, the Market Theatre complex is also a hub for other forms of cultural expression, including music performances, film screenings, poetry readings, and workshops. It is a space where creative voices from all backgrounds can come together to collaborate, share, and innovate.

6. Notable Productions and Figures

Over the years, the Market Theatre has hosted many groundbreaking and critically acclaimed productions. Some of the most notable works that have premiered or been performed there include:

"The Island" by Athol Fugard, John Kani, and Winston Ntshona: A powerful play about two men imprisoned on Robben Island during apartheid, this play had a major international impact and was performed at the Market Theatre before it went on to tour the world.

"Sarafina!": The musical about the 1976 Soweto uprising, which was later made into a film, also had its roots in the Market Theatre.

"My Children! My Africa!" by Athol Fugard: Another of Fugard’s major works, focusing on the conflict between old and new generations in post-apartheid South Africa.

Over the years, the Market Theatre has attracted some of South Africa’s greatest performers and directors, including figures like John Kani, Winston Ntshona, Miriam Makeba, and Pieter-Dirk Uys.

7. Modern-Day Significance

Today, the Market Theatre continues to serve as a major cultural institution in Johannesburg and South Africa at large. While it no longer operates in the same politically charged context as during apartheid, it remains committed to fostering important conversations about social justice, inequality, and the human condition. The theatre continues to provide a space for artistic innovation and plays an important role in shaping contemporary South African theatre.

The venue is also a popular spot for theatre lovers, offering a wide range of performances, from contemporary drama to experimental art. It remains an important cultural space where new generations of South African artists and audiences can experience powerful and thought-provoking works.

8. Location and Visitor Information

The Market Theatre is located in the vibrant cultural district of Newtown, Johannesburg. The area surrounding the theatre is known for its bustling arts and entertainment scene, with a number of other cultural venues, museums, and galleries in close proximity, such as the Museum Africa and the Dance Factory.

The theatre is easily accessible by public transport, with various bus and taxi routes nearby. It is also a short drive from central Johannesburg and offers a lively environment with numerous dining and entertainment options before or after performances.

Conclusion

The Market Theatre remains a beacon of South African creativity and resistance, continuing to play a key role in the nation’s cultural landscape. With its rich history, commitment to artistic excellence, and focus on social change, the theatre holds an esteemed place in the hearts of South Africans and theatre enthusiasts worldwide.