- Version
- Download 40
- File Size 605 KB
- File Count 1
- Create Date July 14, 2026
- Last Updated July 14, 2026
South African State Theatre Brings the Spirit of Mandela Day to MmakauNyane Secondary School
South African State Theatre Brings the Spirit of Mandela Day to MmakauNyane Secondary School
67 Minutes. Lasting Impact. Together We Restore Hope, Inspire Change and Celebrate Young Talent
Pretoria, South Africa – The South African State Theatre (SAST), an agency of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC), will commemorate Mandela Day 2026 through a meaningful community outreach programme at MmakauNyane Secondary School on Friday, 17 July 2026, reaffirming its commitment to using the arts as a catalyst for social transformation, education and nation building.
Inspired by the enduring legacy of former President Nelson Mandela, the South African State Theatre's Mandela Day programme is centred on the belief that meaningful change begins when individuals dedicate their time, skills and compassion to improving the lives of others. This year's initiative embraces the theme "67 Minutes. Lasting Impact.", encouraging staff, artists and community members to create a legacy that extends well beyond a single day of service.
As part of its Wellness on the Move initiative, the South African State Theatre will travel to MmakauNyane Secondary School to spend the day working alongside learners, educators and community members in a spirit of unity, service and hope. The programme demonstrates the Theatre's commitment to taking arts and culture beyond its stages and into communities where creativity can inspire positive social change.
The day's activities will include painting and restoring school spaces, donating resources, encouraging learners and participating in meaningful acts of service that contribute to a more welcoming and inspiring learning environment. These acts reflect the values that define Mandela Day, reminding South Africans that even small contributions can create lasting change when communities work together.
In addition to the community service activities, the South African State Theatre will present its Mandela Day Open Stage Programme, offering learners an exciting opportunity to showcase their artistic talent and creativity. The initiative has been designed to celebrate artistic excellence while encouraging confidence, self-expression and cultural pride among young people.
The Open Stage Programme invites learners to participate in a variety of artistic disciplines including monologues, duologues, dance, poetry and a visual arts exhibition. Whether performing an original work or interpreting an existing piece, learners will be given an opportunity to express themselves, develop their creative abilities and perform before an appreciative audience. Performances may be presented in any official South African language, reflecting the country's rich cultural diversity and commitment to inclusion.
The visual arts exhibition will further provide learners with an opportunity to display their creativity through drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, mixed media, digital art, textile art and other artistic expressions. By creating this platform, the South African State Theatre continues to invest in discovering and nurturing the next generation of South African artists while promoting artistic excellence at grassroots level.
The Mandela Day initiative also reflects the South African State Theatre's broader vision of ensuring that theatre remains relevant, accessible and responsive to the needs of communities. Through programmes such as Wellness on the Move, the Theatre continues to demonstrate that arts and culture play a vital role in education, healing, social cohesion and nation building.
Speaking on the significance of the initiative, the South African State Theatre emphasised that Mandela Day is more than an annual commemoration. It is a call to action that encourages every South African to contribute towards building stronger, healthier and more compassionate communities.
The Theatre believes that empowering young people through creativity, education and service creates opportunities that extend beyond the classroom. By bringing artists, theatre practitioners and staff members directly into communities, the institution continues to build meaningful relationships while inspiring future generations to dream boldly and realise their full potential.
Members of the media are invited to join the South African State Theatre as it celebrates Mandela Day through meaningful service, artistic expression and community engagement, demonstrating that 67 minutes of giving can create a lifetime of impact.
Event Details
Event: Mandela Day 2026 – Wellness on the Move
Date: Friday, 17 July 2026
Venue: MmakauNyane Secondary School
Hosted by: South African State Theatre
MEDIA ENQUIRIES
Bongani Nicholas Ngomane PR and Communications South African State Theatre
Tel: 072 700 6030
Email: bongani@statetheatre.co.za
DIGITAL & SOCIAL MEDIA
Website: www.statetheatre.co.za
General Enquiries: 012 392 4000
Follow the South African State Theatre
Facebook: The South African State Theatre
Instagram: @sastatetheatre
X: @sastatetheatre
Watch SAST TV
https://www.statetheatre.co.za/tvchannel/
About SAST TV
SAST TV is the South African State Theatre's official digital platform dedicated to showcasing theatre productions, youth festivals, interviews, documentaries, behind the scenes content and stories that celebrate South Africa's vibrant arts and cultural landscape. The platform extends the Theatre's reach beyond its physical stages, ensuring that audiences across South Africa and the world can engage with local creative excellence while promoting emerging artists, cultural dialogue and innovation in the performing arts.