Market Theatre, Performance theatre in Newtown, Johannesburg, South Africa
The Market Theatre is a performance venue in Johannesburg housed in a restored 1913 building featuring three performance spaces alongside art galleries, restaurants, and a bookshop. The site operates as a cultural center in downtown offering a diverse program of theatre, dance, and other art forms.
The venue began in 1976 as an independent theatre during apartheid, housed in a former Indian fruit market. The transformation marked a deliberate break with racial segregation through an art space that resisted government control.
Productions here tackle social issues and contemporary themes in multiple South African languages and art forms. Visitors encounter works that reflect local stories and concerns of the community.
The site is easily reached on foot from downtown and includes several facilities for spending time. Plan to see both the galleries and a performance, as the complex has much to explore.
The complex houses a specialized laboratory offering training and development in performing arts. These programs help develop emerging South African artists and bring new talent into the industry.
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