Shakespeare Schools Festival South Africa - Cape Town at Baxter Theatre Centre

The Shakespeare Schools Festival South Africa returns to the Baxter Theatre for its 16th season, running from 6 to 23 May 2026. The festival features 42 schools, each presenting condensed 30 to 45-minute adaptations of Shakespeare's plays, with learners — many performing on a professional stage for the first time — bringing their own interpretations, styles and voices to the work. This year's programme includes newcomers Società Dante Alighieri, performing Romeo and Juliet in Italian, and Paarl School, alongside returning participants such as De La Bat School, Pioneer School and Vista Nova. Alongside performances, the festival also offers Master Classes, workshops and guidance from theatre professionals to support learners in building skills beyond the stage.