Afropocalypse
- The Market Theatre Laboratory
International Committee Selection
An energetic and robust work of imaginative physical theatre, set in a futurist world that is, unfortunately, not beyond the bounds of possibility. Drawing on an Afro-futurist perspective with touches of magical realism, the piece explores the fallibility and resilience of the human spirit. Afropocalypse celebrates the power of storytelling and its essential role in the survival of the human race, allowing us to feel the strength of the human spirit despite the many reasons that might exist for despair.
This energetic and hugely imaginative production follows the journey of a group of story tellers in an apocalyptic setting as they share their fables of hope and resilience. Afropocalypse’s fourteen strong ensemble uses physical comedy and tragic magic realism to paint a vivid and vibrant picture of the past, present and speculative future. The intrepid storytellers aim to entertain audiences young and old, as they recount how they have survived and evolved through the cataclysm that reshaped their society.
Produced by The Market Theatre Laboratory in 2024 and playing to sold out runs in Johannesburg after a critically acclaimed run at the 2025 National Arts Festival where it won the festival’s highest Fringe accolade - the Standard Bank Gold Ovation Award. The stories they tell are inspired by a myriad of South African voices, from Credo Mutwa to Jan Rabie, to our shared collection of modern South African myths and fables, all interwoven in a comical tapestry of catastrophe and release.
“…escape into a world of the imagination and be reminded of our resilience and the strength of the human spirit” – Aryn Guiney, Grocotts Mail
“I don’t think I’ve ever seen physical theatre that thrilled and moved me as much” - Robin K Crigler, Daily Maverick
★ Guest performance from South Africa
From 15 to 19 years
Cast:
Producer: The Market Theatre Laboratory
Director: Daniel Buckland
Author: Created by ensemble in collaboration with Director
Set Designer: Jade Bowers
Costume Designer: Jade Bowers
LX Designer: Sibusiso Ndumndum
LX Operator: Zamantimande Shongwe
Stage Manager: Letago Molapo
Project Officer: Thandeka Nheke
Cast: Assante (Te) Cresswell, Kutlwano Semela, Lwazi Mdluli, Moloko Maphuruma, Naledi Mqoma, Nande Galadla, Noluthando Khumalo, Ntlotliseng Matsabisa, Phumlani Ngobese, Thabiso Shandu, Thato Radebe, Thato Kgarodi, Tumelo Phofi, Wongama Bazi
Group:
The Market Theatre LaboratoryTime and place
