Shakespeare Schools Festival South Africa - Johannesburg at Joburg Theatre

The Shakespeare Schools Festival South Africa (SSFSA) returns for its 16th season, bringing youth-driven productions of Shakespeare to Joburg Theatre from 8 to 13 September 2026. Students, many performing on a professional stage for the first time, transform full-length Shakespeare plays into sharp, 30 to 45-minute productions that keep the spirit of the Bard alive while making his stories accessible and relevant to today's audiences. The Johannesburg leg is part of a broader national festival that celebrates creativity, inclusivity and diversity, with participating schools each bringing their own interpretation and voice to the stage. Beyond performance, the festival supports learners through masterclasses and workshops led by theatre professionals, building skills in confidence, teamwork and creative thinking.