The Royal Countess is back at her Century City home by popular demand, and this time, the show’s familiar style is reimagined into an exciting new experience. With immersive speakeasy experiences unfolding in and around the plush velvet Spiegeltent, featuring a live jazz band, singers, dancers, and spectacular cirque acts, guests can expect an unforgettable night out with the Royal Countess Zingara like never before.
Here’s everything Cape Town needs to know about The Royal Countess’ fresh take on the familiar: Melanina – Return to Origin.
More about the new Royal Countess Zingara
The Royal Countess Zingara is back at Century City in Cape Town, this time with Melanina – Return to Origin, a new production that opened in October 2026 and runs to January 2027.
Conceptualised by Richard Griffin, and directed by Craig Leo and Valentina Leo, Melanina – Return to Origin is a new chapter for Zingara that offers a fresh perspective while weaving in familiar elements that audiences will recognise from previous shows. Drawing on old-world glamour and presented through a speakeasy lens, the production will take place within a Spiegeltent, unfolding into an extraordinary journey amplified by electrifying performances, pulsating rhythm and uninhibited revelry.
Also, for the first time in 25 years, two Zingara productions will run simultaneously, with the ever-evolving La Dolce Royal continuing at Melrose Arch in Johannesburg until February 2027, while the velvet curtain rises in the Mother City on Melanina – Return to Origin.
Meet the cast & crew
The cast, showcasing out-of-this-world skill, artistry and flair, hails from a pool of local and international talent. The acclaimed lineup includes Michelle Maurin, a hair-hanging aerial artist from Mexico; Carlos Serrano from Cuba on straps; slack-wire specialist Stephane Pansa from French Guiana; and the powerful strength duo Momo and Fujo from Tanzania.
They are joined by Mohamed and Henri, the human jugglers from Ethiopia and a trio of Mongolian contortionists. Jay Dee America, Crystal Finck, Rori Bingham and Mukovhe Monyai (MK) make up the versatile dance quartet, with choreography by Grant van Ster. Rory Avenstrup is the little cherub who sings the Cuppycake song, assisted by Gloire Elumba.
The upbeat soundscape is anchored by a seven-piece band conducted by Sam Ibeh with former Marabi Club players and Hugh Masekela legends including Senzo Mzimela and Sydney Ace. Ann Masina, Thato Makape, Lelo Ramasimong, Anzio September and MC Donovan Yaards are on vocals, with Yaards delivering a rendition of Prince’s Purple Rain that brings the house down.
Zingarians can expect to be immersed in the heady environs of a forgotten nightclub somewhere between South America, New Orleans and Africa, where jazz becomes ritual and diversity, individuality and connection are celebrated. Learn more via the website.
How to get tickets
Melanina – Return to Origin is already seeing a high demand for tickets ahead of the imminent festive season, and advance booking is highly recommended. Tickets include welcome drinks and a range of canapés, plus the three-act show and a new multi-course menu curated by Zingara’s Heads of Yum.
Cost: From R1250 per person. Book now on the website.
When: Tuesday – Sunday | October 2026 – January 2027 | Grounds open at 5pm; show starts at 7.30pm
Where: Royal Countess Zingara, Century Blvd, Century City, Cape Town
Website: zingara.co.za
Instagram: @zingara_royalcountess
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