Experience the transformative power of language at Revolution of Words, a bold theatre production that bridges the historic richness of South African poetry with the urgent voices of today. Performances run at the UJ Bunting Theatre from Tue, Sep 16 – Sat, Sep 20, 2025. Book your tickets here.

This landmark collaboration between the Market Theatre Foundation’s Kwasha! Theatre Company and UJ Arts and Culture (a division of the Faculty of Art, Design & Architecture (FADA) at the University of Johannesburg) bring poems from the Grade 11 and 12 school curricula to life alongside the daring work of modern poets, creating a dynamic dialogue between generations.

Under the direction of Khethukuthula Jele, with movement by Sinenhlanhla Mgeyi, and written by award-winning South African poet, performer, and activist Lebo Mashile, this transformative performance challenges audiences to reflect, question, and engage with the art of the spoken word.

Gerard Bester, head of the Windybrow Art Centre, shared his thoughts on this collaboration: "Working with UJ on Revolution of Words has been an incredibly rewarding experience. This partnership provides an exciting opportunity to work with emerging talent and to continue our mission of creating dynamic, relevant theatre. UJ's support has enabled us to amplify this important work, and together, we’re giving voice to the next generation of South African poets and performers." 

The result is a riveting exploration of language, identity, and cultural memory, performed by a talented young cast including Andile Mgeyi, Thingo Mcanyana, Gofaone Bodigelo, Londa Mkhize, and Makotone Jack Mabokachaba.

Revolution of Words invites audiences into a space where poetry cements its place as both witness and catalyst. It is a meditation on memory and change, where the lessons of the past meet the urgency of the present. Whether you’re a lover of literature, a supporter of the arts, or simply curious about the transformative power of spoken word, this is a production not to be missed.

Performances run at the UJ Bunting Theatre (Bunting Road Campus, Auckland Park) from Tue, Sep 16 – Sat, Sep 20, 2025 with shows at 10:00 and 13:30 (Tue and Wed), 16:30 and 19:00 (Thu), 12:30 and 19:00 (Fri), and 15:00 (Sat). Tickets are R100 p.p. (or R80 p.p. for students). Book your seats here. 

For more details, contact Pontsho Dube at dubep@uj.ac.za or +27 11 559 3058.