The Masque is proud to present Hamlet

Directed by Yuri Behari-Leak

This gender-swapped adaptation of Shakespeare’s tragedy follows Hamlet, a young director at a modern film production studio soon before the premiere of her latest film, as she tries to avenge her mother's death. We've stayed true to Shakespeare's text as our heroine grapples with her own identity and morality, and adding the layer of how Hamlet can bring the perpetrator of gender-based violence to justice while staying on a feminist path. The play explores how we stay true to ourselves in a world of fame, celebrity and social media where appearance often eclipses reality.

As a testament to Shakespeare's remarkable insight into the human condition, we are thrilled to present this production in a modern setting while staying true to the original language. This fresh approach is sure to resonate with high school learners as they engage with their setwork, while also appealing to a broader audience of Shakespeare enthusiasts.

For block bookings of 10 or more, please email admin@themasque.co.za

If you are a school looking to book for your class, be sure to ask for the school bulk rates.

Dinner & A Show? Yes please!

We’re thrilled to announce our partnership with Tortuga Loca, a local hidden gem serving up delicious Mexican food just around the corner from the Masque.

Patrons attending a Hamlet show can now enjoy 10% off their meal at Tortuga Loca on the same day—just show them your valid theatre ticket to redeem the offer.  Book your table directly with them by calling 087 095 5733, and treat yourself to a full night out!

Waiting in the wings is so last season

Join us for an evening of presence and pretence in It’s Gonna Be May, a cheeky cabaret featuring characters

who are completely convinced that this is their cue.

From wide-eyed dreamers to overconfident schemers, our versatile cast examine every aspect of chasing the

spotlight - whether they’re dreaming the impossible dream or facing the final curtain.

Featuring familiar songs and hidden gems, the stage is set for a night of mania, moxie, and more than a little

May-hem. So bring your dreams (or delusions), grab a drink from the bar and join the fun:

• Venue: Masque Theatre

• Performances: Thursday 22 May, 7.30pm & Friday 23 May, 7.30pm & Saturday 24 May, 7.30pm

• Runtime: 90 minutes, plus an interval for you to top up your drink

It’s musical. It's magical. It’s marginally unhinged. It's Gonna Be May. Don't miss it!

Directed by Amy Leigh Hart

Based on the classic novel by Robert Louis Stephenson.

Adaptation by Bryony Lavery

“It's a dark and stormy night. Jim, the inn-keeper's granddaughter, opens the door to a terrifying stranger. At the old sailor's feet sits a sea-chest, full of secrets. Jim invites him in - and her dangerous voyage begins”

Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic tale of murder, money, and mutiny is brought to life in this thrilling adaptation by Bryony Lavery.

ALAS Academy’s senior drama troupe graces the stage once more and they invite you to join in on the adventure to find the hidden treasure!

“This adventure builds to a crescendo with a collection of skirmishes, desertions, truces, deceptions, bargains, and a fight for the gold! But only one side can win - Which will it be?”

The play explores themes such as Greed and Betrayal, Courage and Loyalty and of course, the allure of the unknown...

Come along and be thoroughly entertained by the academy's marvelously talented bunch of young actors and actresses.

AGE RESTRICTION:

Parental Guidance Advised. PG10

Violence

Beggared in SA, A true story

Why You Need to See Beggared in SA.

Imagine losing everything. Not just your job, your home, or your money—but your very sense of who you are.

That’s the reality of Beggared in SA, a powerful, one-man play based on a true story that will grip your heart, challenge your perceptions, make you laugh out loud, and leave you changed.

What’s It About?

A privileged white South African man, raised in comfort during the 1960s,

suddenly finds himself homeless, begging at a Robot (traffic light). He’s forced to confront not just his desperation but the deep-seated beliefs he grew up with.

Moving into a township shack, he discovers the true meaning of Ubuntu—humanity.

Why See It?

• It’s raw, real, and deeply human.

• This isn’t just a story—it’s a mirror reflecting society’s harsh truths and unexpected kindness.

• Yes, you’ll laugh—a lot. Even in the darkest moments, humor shines through. The absurdity of survival, the wit of resilience, and the hilarity of human nature make this journey as entertaining as it is moving.

• One actor. Many voices. Sean Higgs brings multiple characters to life in a gripping solo performance that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

• It challenges your perspective. Can losing everything be the only way to truly gain?

• It’s urgent and relevant. In a world still divided by class, race, and privilege, Beggared in SA forces us to ask: Who do we become when we have nothing?

Come witness a story of survival, transformation, and the unexpected generosity of those who have the least.

It’s serious. It’s hilarious. It’s unforgettable.

Beggared in SA isn’t just a play—it’s an experience. Don’t miss it.

Abundance

‘Plentifulness of the good things of life’ or in this case DANCE.

This collaborative dance showcase shares the abundant joy of dance by featuring various Cape Town dance studios and schools in a synergetic performance for all ages.

These dancers and teachers have come together to support the thrill of performance by sharing the richness of dance to encouraging audiences.

Join us at the Masque Theatre this June for a fantastic night of dance.

Fresh from his TV series on Via TV, Andre the Hilarious Hypnotist, who needs no introduction to the theatre world, returns to the stage, and after many years, Andre is honored to bring the show back to the Masque Theatre. Andre, who is quick to distance himself from being called a stage hypnotist, instead considers himself a comedian who uses hypnosis to provide an evening of hilarious entertainment. A combination of psychology, drama, and comedic dry humor is what glues the show together, and joined by an ever-changing cast of volunteers, Andre provides an evening of entertainment that will have you talking for a long time after the final curtain closes. Andre promises to generate laughter as members of the audience watch family, friends, and neighbors become stars of the performance.

An uplifting and humbling follow-up to her previous one-woman show, Unapologetically ME, which celebrated the years leading up to turning 30, Stop sweating the small stuff, highlights the lessons Ryka Roux learned in the five years that followed. From big moves to big contracts, to silent screams—and big realizations about people’s big opinions—this show explores what life can be if we stop sweating the small stuff. A dynamic blend of music, drama, humour, humble pies, life, and lessons, it promises an entertaining and insightful experience!

'Anyone Can Cook' - A famous line delivered by an equally famous chef Auguste Gusteau!

But is the saying correct? Can anyone cook? Could a rat, for example, become a famous chef? Well, don't ask me! Come and watch our show!

Habib Drama Studio presents: Anyone Can Cook Ratatouille! Which promises to be as fun and heartwarming as a story about a rat chef and their awkward human friend could be.

Join us this July for this family-friendly tale of rats and men as we attempt to answer the important question, can anyone cook?

The Masque, by arrangement with DALRO (Pty) Limited, is proud to present Little Shop of Horrors!

Join us for a hilarious musical romp as we delve into the world of the hapless Seymour, the down-trodden Audrey and the fiendishly delightful carnivorous plant Audrey II! This cult classic, written by Howard Ashman with music by Alan Menken, features hits like "Suddenly Seymour", "Feed Me" and "Dentist!".

Little Shop of Horrors is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).
All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.
• www.mtishows.com