The English Speaker’s Guide to Theatre at Woordfees 2026

Theatre is one of the oldest Woordfees traditions, with 2026’s programme bringing a mix of celebrated acts and up-and-coming performers to the stage. From ensemble pieces to one-woman shows, these works showcase some of the best of what the thriving South African theatre scene has to offer, whether it’s an authentic piece of personal storytelling or an avant-garde piece tackling today’s societal issues.

Audiences can experience several beloved classical works reimagined for contemporary times. Internationally celebrated director Brett Bailey returns to the Woordfees with FaustX, a striking and visually arresting reinterpretation of Goethe’s Faust II. Through a surreal and experimental lens, the production examines the forces of power, technology, and capitalism that shape our modern world.

In An Iliad, acclaimed performer Alan Committie delivers a one-of-a-kind retelling of the ancient conflict between the Greeks and Trojans, exploring humanity’s enduring struggle to learn from its past. I, Lord Hamlet, transports Shakespeare’s timeless prince to the Cape Flats, exploring questions of identity, belonging and the universal search for meaning and contentment through a remarkable multi-role performance by Carlo Daniels.

Stories of resilience and self-discovery take centre stage in A Girl Called Owl, a moving South African coming-of-age tale set in the Overberg. Featuring a captivating performance by Larissa Crafford-Lazarus, playwright John Keevy’s text explores the difficulties and joys of finding one’s place in the world.

One of South Africa’s most important contemporary stories comes to life in Moffie, a gripping and deeply moving drama set during the apartheid era. Following a young soldier’s journey of self-discovery, the play explores identity, courage and belonging while shining a light on the devastating effects of prejudice and intolerance.

Award-winning actress Kim Engelbrecht makes a special return to the stage in A Woman Alone, a powerful and thought-provoking one-woman play that blends humour, satire and heartfelt moments in a compelling portrait of one woman’s journey towards self-awareness and liberation.

Andrew Buckland brings his trademark wit, energy and physical brilliance to the festival with The Fool’s Guide, a comedic one-man theatrical adventure through the world of modern technology and what it means to be human in an age dominated by social media, artificial intelligence and constant digital connection.

Watch contemporary theatre at Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees

From ancient epics to contemporary South African stories, from laughter to reflection, the theatre programme at the Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees 2026 offers something for every theatre lover. Join the community and discover why live theatre remains one of the most powerful ways to experience the world—and ourselves.

Cost: Various prices. Tickets are available on Quicket.