Pretoria families looking for a standout festive outing should look to Johannesburg this year. The legendary Janice Honeyman returns with a brand new, original pantomime, and Alice in Wonderland tumbles onto the Nelson Mandela Stage at Joburg Theatre from Saturday, 31 October to Thursday, 24 December 2026. With high-calibre theatrical craft, side-splitting South African humour, vibrant musical numbers and visual magnificence, it is a fresh and hilarious take on Lewis Carroll’s timeless classic, and a strong contender for the Gauteng festive calendar.
Whether you are a seasoned theatre enthusiast, a family planning the ultimate December treat, or a supporter of South African arts, this is the kind of production that makes the journey down the highway worthwhile.
A Timeless Tale Reimagined with Local Flavour
For decades, Janice Honeyman’s annual pantomime at Joburg Theatre has been a cornerstone of Gauteng’s festive entertainment tradition, drawing tens of thousands of audience members each year. In 2026, the creative team brings an entirely original script to life, taking audiences on an enchanted journey through a vibrant, whimsical and distinctly South African Wonderland.
The story follows young Alice as she tumbles down a mysterious rabbit hole into a world of quirky personalities, fantastical landscapes and absurd adventures. Honeyman’s direction fuses classic British pantomime traditions, including topical satire, audience participation and dazzling slapstick, with local cultural references, contemporary music and sharp-witted humour.
From breathtaking stage sets and extravagant costume design to show-stopping choreography, the production showcases the very best of South African theatrical talent, both on stage and behind the scenes.
A Star-Studded Cast Brings Wonderland to Life
Joburg Theatre has assembled a lineup of South African stage stars, television favourites and theatrical veterans to bring Carroll’s famous characters to life:
- Russel Savadier as Narrator Lewis Carroll: The acclaimed stage and screen actor guides audiences through the maze of Wonderland as the author himself.
- Charlie Bouguenon as the Mad Hatter: Returning to the Nelson Mandela Stage after 15 years, Bouguenon brings his magnetic energy and comedic prowess to the eccentric Hatter.
- Desmond Dube and Brendan Van Rhyn: Veteran performers who add immense comedic weight and stage presence.
- Siya Makakane as the Cheshire Cat: A sly, mysterious and captivating take on Wonderland’s grinning feline.
- Lesedi Rich as the Caterpillar: A soulful and memorable performance as the wise, pipe-smoking character who meets Alice on her journey.
- Danny Meaker as the Jack of Hearts: High energy and charisma in a charming stage role.
A powerhouse ensemble, specialised dancers and live musicians support the cast, creating an atmosphere of pure theatrical magic.
Why Pretoria Theatregoers Should Add This to Their Diary
Janice Honeyman’s pantomime is far more than festive entertainment. It is a masterclass in theatrical production and creative storytelling, with layered writing that keeps young children and adult theatre lovers equally engaged. For Pretoria families, it also makes a memorable day out: a proper outing that can bring grandparents, parents and children together around one show.
Key Highlights
- Original Musical Score and Live Performances: A rich soundtrack combining popular contemporary hits, theatrical classics and original arrangements.
- Spectacular Production Values: Specialised set engineering, lush lighting design, dynamic special effects and hundreds of custom-designed costumes.
- Interactive Theatre Tradition: Cheer the heroes, boo the villains and join in the action, as pantomime tradition demands.
- Sophisticated South African Humour: Slapstick for the kids, plus sharp-witted adult humour, clever double entendres and satire on local news and culture.
Getting There from Pretoria
Joburg Theatre is in Braamfontein, roughly an hour’s drive from Pretoria depending on traffic, so it pays to plan ahead. Many Pretoria visitors will find the Gautrain a convenient option, travelling to Park Station and continuing to the theatre from there. Allow generous travel time on show days, especially during the busy December period, and check current transport and parking arrangements before you go.
Essential Event Details and Booking Information
Demand for the annual Joburg Theatre pantomime is always high, so book early to secure the best seats for family, friends or corporate year-end functions.
- Show Dates: Saturday, 31 October 2026 to Thursday, 24 December 2026.
- Venue: Nelson Mandela Stage, Joburg Theatre, 163 Civic Boulevard, Braamfontein, Johannesburg.
- Tickets: Available via Webtickets or at the Joburg Theatre Box Office.
- Age Guidance: Suitable for all ages, though parental guidance is advised due to adult humour and double entendres.
- Group and School Bookings: Discounted rates are available for educational institutions and groups through the Joburg Theatre sales team.
For more information, please read our event listing.
Make a Day of It
A trip to Braamfontein is a chance to build a full cultural outing around the show. Pair the pantomime with a pre-show dinner at one of Braamfontein’s trendy restaurants, or enjoy post-show drinks in the city’s lively cultural precinct.
Book your tickets today and step through the looking glass into an unforgettable world of music, laughter and theatrical wonder this festive season.