South African State Theatre celebrates Women’s Month with the Vavasati International Festival 2026.

A celebration of bold storytelling, extraordinary women and the transformative power of the performing arts

Women’s Month, the South African State Theatre proudly presents the Vavasati International Festival 2026, a vibrant celebration of women’s voices, creativity and artistic excellence that brings together an inspiring programme of theatre, music, dance and multidisciplinary performance.

Derived from the XiTsonga word Vavasati, meaning women, the festival has become one of the South African State Theatre’s flagship annual programmes, dedicated to celebrating women as storytellers, innovators, leaders and changemakers within the performing arts. Every year, the festival creates a platform where artists challenge perspectives, amplify unheard voices and tell stories that inspire dialogue, healing and social transformation.

Running throughout August and extending into September, this year’s festival presents an exciting programme featuring powerful dramas, musical productions, live concerts and contemporary performances that reflect the diversity, resilience and creativity of women in South Africa and beyond.

Audiences can look forward to an exceptional line-up of productions, including the emotionally compelling Combat Mother, the uplifting ISIBANE: The Light Musical Concert, the dynamic And…. Action!!!, the thought-provoking Leeto, and many more productions that promise to captivate, inspire and entertain.

One of this year’s highlights, Combat Mother, explores the extraordinary resilience, sacrifice and unwavering love of mothers navigating the realities of conflict. Through emotionally charged performances and compelling storytelling, the production honours women whose courage continues to inspire hope even in the darkest of circumstances.

Music lovers can experience ISIBANE: The Light Musical Concert, presented by acclaimed artist Liso The Musician. This one-night-only performance celebrates hope, faith and African identity through powerful live music, exceptional vocal performances and an unforgettable atmosphere of celebration.

Continuing the celebration is And…. Action!!!, an energetic theatrical production that shines a spotlight on the determination, creativity and resilience of women working in the performing arts, while Leeto takes audiences on an inspiring journey of transformation, identity and self-discovery through compelling storytelling and powerful performances.

Beyond these productions, the Vavasati International Festival offers audiences an opportunity to experience emerging voices, multidisciplinary collaborations, creative exchanges and artistic excellence that continue to position the South African State Theatre as a leading platform for innovation and cultural dialogue.

“The Vavasati International Festival is more than a celebration of Women’s Month; it is a celebration of excellence, courage and creativity. Through this festival, we honour women who continue to shape the performing arts while creating meaningful opportunities for artists and audiences to engage through powerful storytelling. We invite everyone to join us as we celebrate the remarkable contribution of women to our country’s cultural landscape.”

As South Africa commemorates Women’s Month, the South African State Theatre reaffirms its commitment to promoting gender equality, artistic excellence and cultural development by creating spaces where women are empowered to tell their stories, preserve their heritage and inspire future generations.

Whether you are a passionate theatre-goer, music enthusiast, student, family or first-time visitor, the Vavasati International Festival 2026 offers an unforgettable celebration of creativity, culture and the enduring power of women’s voices.

Join us this Women’s Month as we celebrate extraordinary artists, compelling stories and unforgettable performances at the Home of South African Performing Arts.

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

• Combat Mother (5–9 August 2026)

• ISIBANE: The Light Musical Concert (8 August 2026)

• And…. Action!!! (12–16 August 2026)

• Leeto (25–27 September 2026)

• And many more exciting festival experiences.

BOOKINGS & TICKETS

Tickets for all Vavasati International Festival productions are available through Webtickets, Pick n Pay stores nationwide and the South African State Theatre Box Office.

For the full festival programme and bookings:
Website: www.statetheatre.co.za
Book online: www.webtickets.co.za
Box Office: 012 392 4000

MEDIA ENQUIRIES

Bongani Nicholas Ngomane
Dramaturge | Acting PR & Communications
South African State Theatre
Tel: 072 700 6030
E-mail: bongani@statetheatre.co.za

Mrs NE Mafuyeka
Nkhensani@statetheatre.co.za
079 296 3871
South African State Theatre
http://www.statetheatre.co.za