Top 10 Shows in Johannesburg (2025) – My Johannesburg Lists

Johannesburg, South Africa’s cultural and economic heart with over 5 million residents, pulses with a vibrant performing arts scene. Known as the City of Gold, Jozi hosts world-class theatres like Joburg Theatre and Montecasino’s Teatro, showcasing musicals, comedies, dramas, and concerts that rival global stages. From Broadway hits to local masterpieces, these shows cater to families, art lovers, and music enthusiasts in a sunny 15°C–25°C climate. This evergreen guide, crafted with local expertise and credible sources, ranks the top 10 shows in Johannesburg for 2025, detailing their venues, dates, and unique appeal. Whether you’re a Sandton professional seeking a night of laughter or a Soweto family craving a cultural experience, these performances deliver unforgettable moments, cementing Jozi’s status as Africa’s entertainment capital.

Top 10 Shows in Johannesburg

1. Swingin’ Las Vegas 2025

Venue: The Teatro at Montecasino, Fourways, Johannesburg
Dates: May 16–25, 2025 (8 shows)
Description: Back by popular demand, this smash-hit musical by Howard Events and The CoLab Network celebrates Vegas glamour with jazz, swing, and iconic tunes. Featuring a live big band and dazzling choreography, it’s a high-energy tribute to Sinatra and Elvis. Ideal for couples and music lovers.
Ticket Price: R150–R450
Why Choose: Its vibrant production and prime Montecasino location ensure a memorable night.
Contact: www.joburg.co.za, +27 11 511 1234

2. Disney’s The Lion King JR

Venue: National Children’s Theatre, Parktown, Johannesburg
Dates: Dates TBD (typically June–July 2025)
Description: This youth production brings Simba’s epic journey to life with a cast of 50 young performers. Featuring iconic songs like “Hakuna Matata,” it’s a family-friendly spectacle of courage and destiny. The intimate venue enhances the experience.
Ticket Price: R100–R250
Why Choose: Perfect for kids and families, it combines local talent with Disney magic.
Contact: www.nctt.org.za, +27 11 484 1234

3. The Last Country

Venue: Market Theatre, Newtown, Johannesburg
Dates: May 15–June 1, 2025
Description: An immersive Empatheatre production, this moving drama features award-winning actors like Mpume Mthombeni and Faniswa Yisa. Drawn from 30 oral histories of migrant women, it explores identity and resilience, earning critical acclaim.
Ticket Price: R120–R300
Why Choose: Its powerful storytelling and cultural depth make it a must-see for theatre enthusiasts.
Contact: www.markettheatre.co.za, +27 11 832 1234

4. Mantsopa

Venue: Market Theatre, Newtown, Johannesburg
Dates: April 30–May 18, 2025
Description: Written and directed by Dr. Jerry Mofokeng wa Makhetha, this musical journey blends song and storytelling. Following a sold-out 2024 reading, its full production celebrates African heritage with vibrant performances.
Ticket Price: R120–R300
Why Choose: Its cultural resonance and veteran direction offer a unique theatrical experience.
Contact: www.markettheatre.co.za, +27 11 832 1234

5. A Doll’s House Part 2

Venue: Theatre on the Square, Sandton, Johannesburg
Dates: May 14–June 7, 2025
Description: This Tony-nominated sequel to Ibsen’s classic explores Nora’s return after 15 years, tackling modern themes of freedom and family. Its intimate Sandton setting enhances the gripping dialogue and stellar cast.
Ticket Price: R150–R350
Why Choose: Ideal for drama lovers seeking thought-provoking, contemporary theatre.
Contact: www.theatreonthesquare.co.za, +27 11 883 1234

6. Breakfast with Mugabe

Venue: Market Theatre, Newtown, Johannesburg
Dates: July 17–August 10, 2025
Description: Directed by Calvin Ratladi, this psychological thriller and National Arts Festival co-production delves into power and paranoia. Its gripping narrative and bold performances captivate audiences.
Ticket Price: R120–R300
Why Choose: Its intense drama and historical context appeal to fans of political theatre.
Contact: www.markettheatre.co.za, +27 11 832 1234

7. The Moon Looks Delicious From Here

Venue: Market Theatre, Newtown, Johannesburg
Dates: From July 9, 2025
Description: Aldo Brincat’s award-winning drama, a Standard Bank Silver Ovation winner, offers a personal exploration of loss and hope. Its intimate storytelling and emotional depth resonate deeply.
Ticket Price: R120–R300
Why Choose: Perfect for those seeking heartfelt, critically acclaimed performances.
Contact: www.markettheatre.co.za, +27 11 832 1234

8. Dear Evan Hansen

Venue: Joburg Theatre, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
Dates: June 10–July 27, 2025
Description: This six-time Tony Award-winning musical, from the writers of The Greatest Showman, tackles mental health and belonging with powerful songs like “You Will Be Found.” Its universal themes resonate with all ages.
Ticket Price: R180–R500
Why Choose: Its emotional impact and Broadway pedigree make it a theatrical highlight.
Contact: www.joburgtheatre.com, +27 11 877 1234

9. In A Ribbon of Rhythm

Venue: Market Theatre, Newtown, Johannesburg
Dates: From August 1, 2025
Description: Jazz vocalist Tutu Puoane transforms Lebogang Mashile’s poetry into a soulful blend of African jazz and soul. This innovative show celebrates South African artistry with evocative performances.
Ticket Price: R120–R300
Why Choose: Its fusion of poetry and music offers a unique cultural experience.
Contact: www.markettheatre.co.za, +27 11 832 1234

10. Tems Concert

Venue: The Dome, Nasrec, Johannesburg
Dates: March 2025 (TBD)
Description: Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Tems brings her Afrobeat, R&B, and neo-soul blend to Jozi. Known for hits like “Free Mind,” her concert promises an electrifying live experience in the newly opened Dome.
Ticket Price: R300–R1,000
Why Choose: Her global appeal and vibrant performance make it a must for music fans.
Contact: www.ticketmaster.co.za, +27 11 123 4567

Why Attend Shows in Johannesburg?

Johannesburg’s performing arts scene offers compelling reasons to attend:

Cultural Diversity: Shows like Mantsopa and In A Ribbon of Rhythm celebrate South Africa’s heritage, blending African, jazz, and global influences.
World-Class Venues: Montecasino’s Teatro (1,870 seats) and Joburg Theatre’s acoustics rival international stages.
Accessibility: Venues in Sandton, Braamfontein, and Newtown are reachable via Uber or Gautrain (R80–R120 from Park Station).
Affordability: Tickets (R100–R1,000) cater to all budgets, with discounts for students and seniors at Joburg Theatre.
Year-Round Appeal: Jozi’s mild climate supports frequent performances, from musicals to concerts.

South Africa’s theatre and music scene, centered in Johannesburg, thrives on its multicultural roots and passionate audiences, making it a global cultural hub.

Types of Shows in Johannesburg

Musicals: Broadway-style productions like Dear Evan Hansen and Swingin’ Las Vegas with lavish sets and live music.
Dramas: Thought-provoking plays like A Doll’s House Part 2 and The Last Country, tackling social issues.
Comedies: Stand-up shows (e.g., Dr. Riaad Moosa, June 13–15, 2025) and comedic plays for light-hearted fun.
Concerts: Global stars (Tems, Sting) and local talents at venues like FNB Stadium and The Dome.
Youth Theatre: Family-friendly shows like Disney’s The Lion King JR, fostering young talent.
Cultural Performances: African-inspired shows like Mantsopa, blending music and storytelling.

How to Choose the Right Show

Define Interests: Musicals (Dear Evan Hansen) for music lovers, dramas (Breakfast with Mugabe) for deep narratives, or concerts (Tems) for live energy.
Consider Audience: Family-friendly shows (The Lion King JR) for kids; adult-oriented dramas (The Last Country) for mature audiences.
Check Venues: Montecasino for upscale experiences, Market Theatre for cultural depth, or The Dome for concerts.
Budget: Affordable tickets at Market Theatre (R120–R300) or premium seats at Joburg Theatre (R500).
Location: Sandton (Theatre on the Square) for northern suburbs, Braamfontein (Joburg Theatre) for central access.
Reviews: Check www.joburg.co.za for Swingin’ Las Vegas’ 5-star feedback or www.ticketmaster.co.za for Tems’ buzz.
Timing: Book early for limited runs (Swingin’ Las Vegas, 8 shows only) or check TBD dates (The Lion King JR).

Practical Tips for Attending Shows

Book Early: Secure tickets via www.joburgtheatre.com or www.ticketmaster.co.za 2–3 months ahead, especially for Dear Evan Hansen or Tems.
Check Promotions: Joburg Theatre offers 10% off for groups of 10+; Montecasino has early-bird discounts.
Plan Transport: Use Uber/Bolt (R80–R120 from CBD) or Gautrain to Sandton/Montecasino. Parking at Teatro is R20–R50.
Arrive Early: Venues open 30–60 minutes before shows; enjoy pre-show dining at Montecasino’s restaurants.
Dress Code: Smart-casual for Teatro; casual for Market Theatre. Check venue guidelines on www.joburgtheatre.com.
Stay Safe: Stick to well-lit areas like Fourways or Braamfontein; avoid sharing ticket details online.
Enhance Experience: Read play synopses on www.markettheatre.co.za for dramas like The Last Country to deepen engagement.

Nearby Attractions and Amenities

Complement your show experience with Jozi’s offerings:

Montecasino (0km from Teatro): Dining, gaming, and shopping. Free entry.
Newtown Cultural Precinct (0km from Market Theatre): Museum Africa, art galleries. Free entry.
Sandton City (1km from Theatre on the Square): Luxury shopping, restaurants. Free entry.
Braamfontein (0km from Joburg Theatre): Neighbourgoods Market, cafes. Market entry: R20–R50.
Nasrec (0km from The Dome): Close to Soweto’s Mandela House. Entry: R60–R100.

FAQs About Shows in Johannesburg

What are the best shows in Johannesburg for 2025?

Swingin’ Las Vegas, Dear Evan Hansen, and Tems’ concert top the list for their production quality, global appeal, and cultural significance. Tickets range from R100–R1,000.

How much do show tickets cost in Johannesburg?

Prices vary: R100–R300 for Market Theatre dramas, R150–R500 for musicals at Joburg Theatre, and R300–R1,000 for concerts at The Dome.

Where can I find show tickets in Johannesburg?

Purchase via www.joburgtheatre.com, www.ticketmaster.co.za, or www.quicket.co.za. Pick n Pay also sells tickets for cash or card.

Are Johannesburg shows family-friendly?

Yes, Disney’s The Lion King JR and select Joburg Theatre shows are ideal for families, with tickets starting at R100.

What venues host the best shows in Johannesburg?

Montecasino’s Teatro, Joburg Theatre, and Market Theatre lead for their acoustics, capacity (1,870 at Teatro), and cultural programming.

Conclusion

Johannesburg’s top 10 shows for 2025, from the dazzling Swingin’ Las Vegas to the soulful Tems concert, showcase the city’s vibrant performing arts scene. With tickets from R100–R1,000, world-class venues like Montecasino and Joburg Theatre, and a mix of musicals, dramas, and concerts, there’s something for every taste. Backed by institutions like the Market Theatre and fueled by Jozi’s cultural diversity, these performances offer unforgettable experiences. Book early via www.joburgtheatre.com or www.ticketmaster.co.za, plan your transport, and immerse yourself in the City of Gold’s theatrical brilliance. Whether in Sandton or Newtown, Jozi’s stages await to captivate and inspire.