NURTURING YOUNG MINDS THROUGH ARTS – A campaign that celebrates the World Day of Theatre/Performing Arts for Children and Young People, 20 March 2026.

ASSITEJ South Africa proudly launches its annual “Take a Child to the Theatre Today” campaign for 2026, calling on artists, educators, parents, cultural organisations, and communities to ensure that children and young people across South Africa experience the magic and power of live theatre.

Aligned with the international World Day of Theatre for Children and Young People, celebrated globally on 20 March each year, the campaign forms part of a worldwide movement led by ASSITEJ International, the global network dedicated to theatre for children and young people and to the artistic and cultural rights of young audiences.

Theatre is far more than entertainment. It is a space where children can imagine new worlds, explore difficult questions, develop empathy, and build confidence. Live storytelling allows young people to see their own lives reflected on stage, to connect with others, and to engage creatively with the social and emotional realities of growing up.

ASSITEJ South Africa believes that access to theatre is a right, not a privilege. Through Take a Child to the Theatre Today, we continue to advocate for inclusive access to quality theatre experiences for children, particularly those who face economic, geographic, or social barriers to participation in the arts.

Across the country, artists and organisations are encouraged to programme performances, host special events, and create opportunities for children to attend theatre, whether through school outings, community initiatives, discounted ticket offerings, or sponsored access.

How can you participate in 2026?

1. Donate

 Support access to theatre for children who would otherwise not be able to attend. Donations help cover transport, ticket costs, and outreach opportunities for young audiences. See some of the work being toured by ASSITEJ SA currently, below.

 Donate here: [https://www.givengain.com/d/cc/14163#amount](https://www.givengain.com/d/cc/14163#amount)

2. Spread the word

 Use your website, social media platforms, newsletters, and print materials to amplify the campaign.

 Tag @ASSITEJ_za and use the hashtag #TakeAChildToTheTheatre2026.

3. Share official World Day content

 ASSITEJ International releases annual World Day messages from its President and global advocates, along with campaign materials and a short video. We encourage everyone in South Africa to share this content and link your own productions and events to the global movement.

 Find out more here: [https://assitej-international.org/advocacy/world-day/](https://assitej-international.org/advocacy/world-day/)

ASSITEJ South Africa warmly invites theatre-makers, schools, venues, festivals, donors, and community partners to stand with us in 2026 and to become active advocates for children’s cultural rights.

“Take a Child to the Theatre Today is a reminder that every child deserves access to live performance. Theatre nurtures imagination, empathy, confidence, and critical thinking. It gives young people space to reflect on their world and to dream beyond it.” – Yvette Hardie, Director, ASSITEJ South Africa

ON NATIONAL TOUR:

Western Cape

Pieces of Me – suitable for 14+ – touring Feb/March including 21-28 February at the Avalon Theatre, District Six

Grommels – suitable for aged 2-10 – ongoing touring

How to Hold the World / Hou die Wereld Vas – Western Cape – suitable for 6-10, ongoing touring

The Forest – suitable for 2-10, ongoing touring

Gauteng:

Skin We are In – suitable for 10-15 years, touring March/April

Limpopo, KZN, Eastern Cape, Western Cape (central Karoo):

Nompilo – suitable for Grades 5&6

For further information, partnerships, or to discuss how you can get involved, contact ASSITEJ South Africa at info@assitej.org.za

Let us make 2026 a year where every child has the opportunity to experience the joy, wonder, and transformative power of theatre.

Issued by: ASSITEJ South Africa
Website: https://www.assitej.org.za

About ASSITEJ South Africa

ASSITEJ South Africa is the national centre of ASSITEJ International, part of a global network advocating for theatre and performing arts for children and young people. ASSITEJ South Africa works to develop the field, support artists and educators, and create and expand access to quality theatre experiences for all children and young people.

Yvette Hardie
director@assitej.org.za
082 859 5635
ASSITEJ South Africa
http://www.assitej.org.za