Opened in 2012, the Soweto Theatre is by far the most striking piece of architecture in Soweto, if not in all of Johannesburg. Looming above the busy Jabulani township, the building consists of three huge, primary coloured cubes that look like a giant’s building blocks. Each cube — one red, one blue, and one yellow — contains a separate “black box” performance venue inside the theatre. 

The Soweto Theatre is always buzzing and has definitely become a central community gathering place. It hosts a huge variety of performances and events, including plays, concerts, festivals, comedy shows, talks, conventions, and religious gatherings. The Soweto Art and Craft Fair happens on the theatre grounds on the first Saturday of each month with live music, food, and a variety of local arts and crafts vendors. (In addition to the indoor performance spaces, the theatre also provides several outdoor multi-purpose spaces.) Follow the Soweto Theatre on Facebook for regular event updates. 

Even if there isn’t a show on, the Soweto Theatre is worth a visit simply to walk around the grounds a check out the interesting artwork both inside and out. In April 2019 the theatre added a stunning graffiti mural to its exterior, created by a team of renowned local and international street artists. 

The theatre is open seven days a week. 

The Soweto Theatre is at the corner of Bolani Link and Bolani Road in Jabulani, Soweto. Call 011-930-7461.