Following its acclaimed 2024 premiere, Orpheus McAdoo returns to the Artscape Theatre from Tuesday, October 21 to Sunday, November 2.
The musical, written and directed by South African theatre legend David Kramer, tells the true story of African-American singer Orpheus McAdoo and his Virginia Jubilee Singers, who toured South Africa in the 1890s. Their performances of spirituals and jubilee singing captivated audiences and left a lasting cultural legacy.
Cape Town Opera House Soloist Conroy Scott takes the lead role, joined by Brittany Smith as Mattie Allen. The cast blends opera singers and stage actors, with well-known performers including Jody Abrahams, Alexis Petersen, Elton Landrew, Natalie Robbie, and Eldon van der Merwe. Zolani Shangase will join the production for the first time.
With its mix of spirituals, ragtime, folk, and South African music influences, the show offers both large-scale choral numbers and intimate drama. Kurt Haupt takes over as musical director this season, with set and costume design by Julian David and Maritha Visagie, and lighting by Kieran Cattel.
Kramer, known for productions such as District Six – The Musical, Kat and the Kings and Danger in the Dark, brings this historical story to life in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Tickets range from R170 to R520 and are available at Webtickets or the Artscape Box Office on 021 421 7695. Pensioners, students, and groups of five or more qualify for discounts, while a Heritage Week promotion offers 50% off all tickets purchased between September 24 and October 1. No under-fives allowed.