Market Theatre

Established in 1976 by Barney Simon and Mannie Manim, Johannesburg’s Market Theatre is fondly known as the Theatre of Struggle as it worked toward challenging the atrocious system of Apartheid. What was once the Indian Fruit Market of the city, this theatre was awarded the American Jujamcyn Award in 1995 because of its endless endeavours to bring about change in the society by virtue of performing arts. It has served as a vital cultural centre for dance, music, arts and theatre for the past 40 years now and continues to be a force to be reckoned with. Anti-Apartheid plays like ‘You Strike the Woman You Strike a Rock’ and ‘Black Dog’ are some of the most celebrated productions of this establishment. It now encourages innovative writing that can encapsulate life under a democratic South Africa.
The complex has three theatres, namely—the Main Theatre, the Laager Theatre and the Barney Simon Theatre which often double up as conference and seminar rooms. In 2014, Market Theatre was renamed the ‘John Kani Theatre’ after the eminent South African performer. Its Edwardian architecture has been preserved in its original form and is quite a sight to see.