Canal Walk’s much-loved winter theatre tradition is back for 2026, transforming the Centre Court into a live performance stage once again.
This year marks the 24th production in the series, with Peter Pan taking flight from Saturday, June 27, to Sunday, July 19 - bringing fairy dust, flying scenes, and just the right amount of pirate chaos to Cape Town’s school holiday calendar.
Each winter, the shopping centre shifts from retail hub to theatrical set, continuing a tradition that has become a fixture for local families. Over the years, generations of children have grown up watching the Centre Court stage come alive, returning year after year to a tradition that has become part of Cape Town’s winter school holidays.
“Peter Pan marks our 24th production here at Canal Walk, and it feels like the right story to mark the occasion,” says Vanessa Herbst, marketing manager at Canal Walk.
“For more than two decades, school holidays at Canal Walk have meant live theatre for local families.”
The story follows Wendy, John, and Michael Darling, whose nursery world is turned upside down when Peter Pan flies in through the window searching for his missing shadow.
A stitched-up shadow leads to flight, adventure, and a journey to Neverland - a place where no one grows up. There, they meet Tinker Bell, the Lost Boys, Tiger Lily, and Captain Hook, who is still nursing a long-standing grudge involving a crocodile and a missing hand.
This year’s cast includes Killian Blerk as Peter Pan, Rachael Saunders as Wendy Darling, and Jeremy Richard in the dual role of Mr Darling and Captain Hook. Kaira Naidoo stars as Tinker Bell, alongside Evan Marinakos as Smee, with a supporting ensemble bringing mermaids, pirates, and Lost Boys to life.
Co-directors Fred Abrahamse and Marcel Meyer say the production leans into spectacle and imagination: “Peter Pan gave us the chance to bring flight, fairy dust, and a touch of mischief to the Canal Walk stage.”
A portion of ticket and programme sales will support the Reach for a Dream Foundation, helping grant wishes to children living with life-threatening illnesses.
As always, there is no reserved seating, and early arrival is encouraged, with past productions often selling out.
Show Details
Venue:Canal Walk Centre Court
Dates:June 27 to July 19, 2026 (closed Mondays)
Times: 11am, 12:30pm and 2pm
Tickets: From R130pp via Webtickets
Running Time:60 mins (no interval)
Recommended Age: From age 2 and up
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