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To Hell And Back: A Powerful New South African Musical That Challenges Everything You Think You Know About Salvation
To Hell And Back: A Powerful New South African Musical That Challenges Everything You Think You Know About Salvation
A gripping journey of faith, judgment, redemption and second chances arrives at the South African State Theatre this September.
Pretoria, South Africa – What if the greatest battle for your soul did not begin after death, but with the life you believed you had lived?
This September, audiences are invited to embark on an unforgettable theatrical journey as Kanda Kul Concepts presents To Hell And Back, a bold new South African musical theatre production that promises to captivate, challenge and transform audiences at the South African State Theatre from 18 to 27 September 2026.
Blending breathtaking music, emotionally charged performances and profound storytelling, To Hell And Back is far more than a musical. It is an experience that confronts the complexities of faith, humanity and personal accountability, asking one of the most uncomfortable questions of all: Are we truly the people we believe ourselves to be?
In an era where social media often encourages public judgment, where society is quick to condemn others while overlooking its own shortcomings, To Hell And Back arrives as a timely and deeply relevant work. It invites audiences to pause, reflect and examine the invisible burdens, hidden wounds and silent hypocrisies that shape everyday life.
The story follows four individuals who mysteriously awaken on hospital stretchers after a tragic incident. Certain they have lived lives worthy of heaven; they are shocked to find themselves confronting a reality far different from what they expected. As memories unfold and painful truths emerge, every belief they held about goodness, righteousness and salvation is tested.
What begins as confusion soon becomes an emotional and spiritual reckoning.
Each character is forced to confront the moments they ignored, the people they hurt, the compassion they withheld and the truths they buried beneath appearances. Their journey becomes one of revelation rather than condemnation, reminding audiences that genuine transformation begins with honesty, humility and self-reflection.
The brilliance of To Hell And Back lies in its universality. Regardless of one's faith, culture or background, the production speaks to the shared human experience of imperfection. It challenges the idea that outward success, religious devotion or social respectability automatically define moral character. Instead, it asks audiences to consider whether true redemption begins when we acknowledge our own brokenness.
Created and produced by Ntlantla Swana, directed by acclaimed theatre maker Luyanda Sidiya, written by Khanyisa Sigwanda, and featuring an original musical score composed by Sizwe Yaze, the production brings together an exciting creative team committed to producing theatre that entertains while provoking meaningful conversations.
Visually striking and emotionally compelling, To Hell And Back combines powerful musical performances with imaginative stagecraft, creating a world where reality and the spiritual realm collide. Every song reveals hidden emotions; every scene uncovers another layer of truth and every character's journey becomes a mirror in which audiences may recognise aspects of themselves.
At a time when many people are searching for meaning, healing and hope in an increasingly complex world, To Hell And Back offers more than entertainment. It offers an opportunity for reflection, conversation and renewal.
This is the kind of production that lingers long after the final curtain falls. It will make audiences question, feel, remember and perhaps even see themselves differently.
Whether you are a devoted theatre lover, someone seeking an unforgettable musical experience or simply curious about a story that speaks to the human condition, To Hell And Back promises an evening that is powerful, moving and impossible to forget.
This September, prepare to experience a musical that does more than entertain.
It challenges.
It inspires.
It transforms.
Because sometimes, the longest journey is not from earth to heaven.
It is the journey back to ourselves.
Production Details
Production: To Hell And Back
Presented by: Kanda Kul Concepts
Venue: South African State Theatre
Dates: 18 to 27 September 2026
Genre: Original Musical Theatre
Age Restriction: Suitable for all audiences
Duration: Approximately 90 minutes
Creative Team
Creator and Producer: Ntlantla Swana
Director: Luyanda Sidiya
Playwright: Khanyisa Sigwanda
Music Composer: Sizwe Yaze
BOOKINGS & TICKETS
Tickets will be available through the South African State Theatre Box Office, Webtickets and Pick n Pay outlets nationwide.
For school bookings, group bookings and performance enquiries, contact the South African State Theatre on 012 392 4000 or visit www.statetheatre.co.za.
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
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About SAST TV
SAST TV is the South African State Theatre's official digital platform dedicated to showcasing theatre productions, festivals, interviews, behind the scenes content and stories that celebrate South Africa's vibrant creative sector. Through innovative digital storytelling, SAST TV connects audiences with world class South African productions while expanding access to the performing arts locally and internationally.