Families looking for a creative day out with the kids this winter can step into an enchanted world when The Forest arrives at the Baxter Theatre Centre from July 31 to August 15.
Created by Ukrainian-born, South African-based choreographer Kateryna Aloshyna, the award-winning production invites children aged five and older to become part of the story through movement, music and audience participation.
Blending contemporary dance, animation and immersive storytelling, every performance unfolds a little differently depending on how young audience members choose to engage.
Inspired by Forest Song, the celebrated poetic drama by Ukrainian writer Lesya Ukrainka, the production follows a journey between the mystical world of nature and the human world. Along the way, it explores themes of resilience, imagination and humanity's relationship with the natural environment.
Children can step into the action as co-creators or simply enjoy the performance from their seats, making the experience accessible for different personalities and comfort levels.
The production also brings together a unique mix of artistic influences, combining South African Amapiano-inspired movement with Ukrainian folk traditions. An original score featuring the traditional Ukrainian sopilka flute alongside modern beatboxing adds another layer to the immersive experience.
Originally created in 2021 to mark the 150th anniversary of Lesya Ukrainka's birth, The Forest received an Ovation Award for artistic excellence and impact at the 2025 National Arts Festival Fringe as part of ASSITEJ South Africa's Family Fare Hub.
The cast features Carren Johannisen, Abigail Johnson, Tyla Kleyn and Andre Maarman, with music by Maksym Berezhnyuk and beatboxer Dmytro Aleksienko. Animation is by Mykyta Budantsov.
Need to know
- Where: Baxter Theatre Centre, Rondebosch
- When: July 31 to August 15
- Duration: 45 minutes (no interval)
- Age: Recommended for children aged five and older
- Tickets: R150 per person, family package (four people) at R125 per person, and group bookings of 10 or more at R85 per person for selected Friday morning performances.
- Bookings: Webtickets
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