Her soulful self Zoe Modiga has date with you at Market Theatre
The concert, taking place on April 23, 2026, will launch the songstress and songwriter’s brand new album The Vault.
By Edward Tsumele, CITYLIFE/ARTS Editor
Her music is boldly soulful and she has amassed thousands of fans for the few years that she has been plying her trade as a vocalist in the soul genre. Zoe Modiga’s tight fans have an opportunity to see her on stage this month, and so have those that have admired her artistry from a distance.
What makes this particular performance, is the fact that it is going to be intimate and soul music fans will be able to engage with her music and performance upclose and personal in the Market Theatre’s John Kani Theatre on April 23, 2026. This gig promises fireworks from a talented artist whose voice is one of the most recognisably beautiful ones on the local soul music scene in the country. This definitely is not a concert to easily miss. After all, it is not an everyday opportunity that one gets to watch a musician of the calibre of Zoe perform in such a venue –a theatre with a sleek stage, well-tuned sound, lighting that has been well designed with her in mind, and most importantly, with fellow music lovers with a discerning ear for good music.Kuzofiwa –it is going to be intimately hectic.
But that is exactly what will happen, come April 23, making it necessary, where it is possible, to postpone other plans that one may have had in mind on that day. It is very rare to be disappointed by Zoe’s performance, and I honestly think that it will not be different this time around.
And what is particularly compelling about this concert, is the fact that Zoe will be performing mainly a selection of songs from her new offering titledTheVault. I missed the launch of this album a few weeks ago at Braamfontein’s brand new live music venue, Hugh’s. Till this day, I am regretting that I could not honour that invitation, because those that managed to go, report that she put together a classy act. Let us therefore, hope that this time around, she will not only repeat that performance, but outclass herself, especially because it is happening in a theatre set up.
Come April 23, the stage at the Market Theatre is set to be a spectacle of song and dance as multi-award-winning songstress and Standard Bank Young Artist for Music 2023, Zoë Modiga, presents The Vault: album launch Live at the Market Theatre, brought to you by creative and cultural hub, Yelloewax.”
“To our audiences, see you in the magic! Thank you to Standard Bank, Yelloewax.” says Zoë Modiga
The Vault is Modiga’s self-written and produced fourth album, characterised by an experimental, alternative-soul sonic landscape. It is a love-themed time machine with 20 years’ worth of unreleased music dating from 2007 to 2025, composed alongside some of the career defining songs in her discography.
“I have been able to make impactful music that resonates with my musiclovers since 2017, and I am always trying to find new ways for us to makememories, make magic, and move through the ebbs and flows of life. Each one of my albums has been forged in love, fire, and a lot of life. I am excited for this new chapter in my creative life and am always honoured to serve my people through the gift and joy of music”.
She explains “Our 4th album is a genre-bending, self-composed, arranged, and produced experimental album that explores the many themes and faces of love over 2 decades. This is work that has been made alongside our audience’s favorite songs, tucked away in the vault, like a treasure waiting to be dug up. It is avulnerable and explorative record about self-love, romantic love, familiallove, life-love, God-love. Agape love”.
“The vitality of one’s creative autonomy and expression is the betterment of society. ” She continues. “If art is the mouthpiece of our human experiences, then being able to express oneself with freedom and without fear will have a powerful domino effect on society. Expression is where our stories are, our sense of self. My new era is about human freedom, joy, vulnerability, and exploration. It is about theimportance of celebrating how multifaceted, layered, complex, andbeautiful we are. ”
So do not say you have not been told: Tickets available at Webtickets https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1588396449
Whirlwind Theatre Unveils a Stand-Out April and May Programme at Delta Park
WE know that for the longest of time, places for live entertainment have been scarce , due to complex factors, such as the lack of sponsorship, and generally the state of the South African economy.
However, new places of live entertainment are e=starting tpo emerge in communities around Johannesburg. One such place is, the Whirlwind Theatre at Delta Park. The place is increasingly coming up with good shows to consider.
With a growing reputation for intimate, high-quality live experiences, the Whirlwind Theatre at Delta Park is rolling out a vibrant April and May programme spanning comedy, live music and themed events, all set within one of Johannesburg’s most unique green spaces.
Kicking things off, Joburg audiences can look forward to the return of Comedy in the Park on 18 April 2026, bringing together four distinct comedic voices for one night of sharp, live stand-up.
Taking to the stage is a phenomenal line-up that balances seasoned heavyweights with fresh, high-energy perspectives: Dave Levinsohn as MC, Mark Banks, Richelieu Beaunoir, and Wazi M Kunene.
About the comedians
Dave Levinsohn
A seasoned performer with decades of experience across stand-up, theatre and television, Dave Levinsohn is known for his sharp observational humour and assured stage presence. A regular on South African stages and festivals, his material blends wit, satire and storytelling, delivered with the confidence of a comedian who knows exactly how to work a room.
Mark Banks
A heavyweight of South African comedy, Mark Banks has built a reputation over many years for his intelligent, incisive humour and quick-fire delivery. Widely regarded as one of the country’s most respected stand-up comedians, his work leans into political satire and social commentary, delivered with precision and authority.
Richelieu Beaunoir
Richelieu Beaunoir is a dynamic and fast-rising voice in South African comedy, known for his high-energy performances and sharp cultural insight. Drawing on identity, language and everyday experiences, he brings a fresh, engaging style to the stage that resonates strongly with diverse audiences.
Wazi M Kunene
Wazi M Kunene is an emerging talent in the local comedy scene, known for her expressive delivery and character-driven humour. Her material explores modern life, relationships and social dynamics with honesty and a distinctive comedic voice that continues to gain momentum on South African stages.
Guests can arrive early (from 17h00) to settle in, enjoy the theatre’s pop-up restaurant and bar, and take in the setting before the show starts at 19h00.
A Venue Nestled in Nature, Made for Easy Evenings and Good Laughs
Set inside the Delta Park Environmental Centre, the Whirlwind Theatre is located within a working green space, surrounded by trees, birdlife and walking trails, with a fully equipped performance venue at its centre.
The site itself has evolved alongside the city: from farmland in the early 1900s, to sewage works serving Johannesburg’s growing suburbs, to one of the country’s leading environmental education centres today.
The theatre offers a suburban space where people and community can come together to experience live performance in a setting that feels both grounded and enchanting. With seating for around 185 guests, the Whirlwind Theatre offers an intimate, high-quality viewing experience, where audiences are close enough to the stage to feel fully part of the performance.
Putting something back into going out
Comedy in the Park forms part of the Whirlwind Theatre’s growing live programme and is curated and produced through a collaboration between Tabitha Hoy of Pickledginger Entertainment and Bridget van Oerle, founder of The BUZ Hive.
Between them, they bring decades of experience across live entertainment, production, publicity and audience engagement with a shared focus on creating events that feel considered, easy to step into and impossible to forget.
The venue is quickly establishing itself as a destination for live performance in Johannesburg’s northern suburbs, balancing quality production with a setting that is relaxed, social and distinctly local.
A subtle link to theatre history remains in the auditorium, with seating sourced from His Majesty’s Theatre as a reminder that great performance spaces tend to evolve rather than disappear.
Expanding the programme into May
Building on the momentum of April, the Whirlwind Theatre’s programme continues into May with a mix of live music, themed events and returning favourites, offering audiences every reason to come back and new audiences more opportunities to visit for the first time.
Acoustic Sessions – 02 May 2026
Doors & Bar: 15h00 | Show: 17h00
The May line-up opens with Acoustic Sessions, featuring a trio of distinctive acts:
Rock The Boat
A male-and-female vocal duo with a country/pop flavour performing across South Africa, Rock The Boat are known for their infectious energy and crowd-pleasing sets. Expect a lively mix of rhythm, harmony and familiar favourites that keep the atmosphere upbeat and engaging.
The Italian Job
Jess Urbani shreds the mic, while Giacomo bends strings “like reality,” delivering a performance layered with personality, musical precision and unmistakable Italian heat.
Karly V
Musician and writer, singer, pianist and guitarist, and author of the Authentically 40+ essay series, Karly V brings a more intimate, expressive offering to the programme, blending storytelling with rich musicality.
Star Wars: A New Hope Screening & Dress-Up – 04 May 2026
Doors & Bar: 17h00 | Screening: 19h00
Join us in a galaxy not so far away for a magical, family-friendly screening of Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope.
Whether you’re a Jedi Master, a tiny Padawan, or secretly on the Dark Side, this is your invitation to celebrate all things Star Wars in true theatrical style. Dress up as your favourite character and prepare to be part of the adventure. Expect lightsabers, laughter, and a room filled with fellow fans of all ages.
Our themed menu will transport your taste buds across the galaxy, with fun treats and drinks inspired by the saga. Arrive early to show off your costume and soak up the atmosphere before the film begins. There may even be a few surprises lurking in the shadows!
Perfect for families, superfans, and anyone who just loves a great story on the big screen.
Children must be accompanied by adults.
Comedy in the Park Returns – 16 May 2026
Doors & Bar: 17h00 | Show: 19h00
Following a standout April show, Comedy in the Park returns on 16 May for another sharp, high-energy night of stand-up, continuing its place as a highlight of the theatre’s live programme.
This month’s line-up features a fresh mix of established and rising talent, with Chris Forrest headlining and MC duties anchoring the evening, joined by Al Prodgers, Eric Jansen, and Q Dube, each bringing their own distinct style, pace, and perspective to the stage.
About the comedians
Chris Forrest (MC)
A stalwart of South African comedy for more than 25 years, Chris Forrest is one of the country’s most versatile entertainers. Known for his appearances on Comedy Central, multiple stand-up specials, and winning Celebrity MasterChef South Africa, Forrest has performed at thousands of events locally and internationally. As MC, he brings experience, pace and an instinctive ability to read a room, keeping the energy high and the show tightly held from start to finish.
Al Prodgers
Al Prodgers is a rising voice on the local comedy circuit, known for his clever observations and laid-back delivery. His material often draws from everyday life, relationships, and the absurdities of modern living, delivered with an easy charm that connects quickly with audiences.
Eric Jansen
Eric Jansen is a dynamic performer with a knack for storytelling and character-driven comedy. His sets blend personal anecdotes with sharp punchlines, creating a style that is both engaging and unpredictable, with strong audience rapport.
Q Dube
Q Dube brings high-energy, fast-paced comedy to the stage, with a style rooted in sharp social commentary and bold humour. A confident performer, Dube’s material often explores identity, culture, and contemporary life, delivered with impact and precision.
Event details
Comedy in the Park
Date: 18 April 2026
Venue: Whirlwind Theatre, Delta Environmental Centre, Delta Park
Doors & Bar: 17h00
Show: 19h00
Tickets: R180 | R120
Bookings: www.quicket.co.za
Acoustic Sessions
Date: 02 May 2026
Doors & Bar: 15h00
Show: 17h00
Tickets: R150 | R100 | R50
Bookings: www.quicket.co.za
Star Wars Screening & Dress-Up
Date: 04 May 2026
Doors & Bar: 17h00Whirlwind Theatre Unveils a Stand-Out April and May Programme at Delta ParkScreening: 19h00
Tickets: R150
Bookings: https://www.quicket.co.za/events/367735-may-the-fourth-star-wars-screening-dress-up/#/
Comedy in the Park (May Edition)
Date: 16 May 2026
Doors & Bar: 17h00
Show: 19h00