SA State Theatre to stage Music in the Air musical

Written and directed by Joel Zuma, the production revisits the music of the 1980s and 1990s, paying tribute to artists whose work carried messages of hope and unity during apartheid and the transition to democracy.

The musical features songs by Brenda Fassie, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Chicco, Lucky Dube, Letta Mbuli, Johnny Clegg, Mafikizolo, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Mahlathini & Mahotella Queens, among others.

The cast includes Zuma alongside Hlengiwe Lushaba-Madlala, Ntambo Rapatla, Thabile Mtshali, Sip Nkabinde, Sbusiso Shozi, Mbali Ngidi and Zodumo Shange. Many of the performers have appeared in local television productions such as Uzalo, Diepcity, The Estate and Sbongile & The Dlaminis.

Music in the Air – The Musical combines music, acting, and dance to chart South Africa’s journey from political repression to democracy. The production was first staged at the Playhouse Drama Theatre in Durban in 2021, where it received positive reviews. Following its Pretoria run, it will tour Johannesburg, Durban and Pietermaritzburg in 2026.

“The production celebrates the power of music to inspire, unite and heal,” Zuma said. “These songs carried us through difficult times and remain part of who we are as South Africans.”

South African State Theatre artistic director Sekhabi Aubrey described the staging as “a celebration of cultural icons and a reminder of the power of music to bring people together across generations.”