JANICE HONEYMANS PINOCCHIO PANTO 2025

JANICE HONEYMAN’S 38TH ANNUAL PANTOMIME BRINGS PINOCCHIO TO LIFE AT JOBURG THEATRE!

South Africa’s favourite festive tradition is back, Legendary theatre-maker Janice Honeyman returns with her 38th annual pantomime an all-new, high-energy production of Pinocchio, running from 31 October to 24 December 2025.
This year’s pantomime is packed with laughter, heart, and holiday joy for the whole family. With dazzling sets, colourful costumes, toe-tapping tunes, and plenty of audience participation, Pinocchio is a must-see theatrical adventure with magic, mischief, music, and mayhem
Janice Honeyman brings Carlo Collodi’s classic story to life with her signature sparkle filled with humor, warmth, and life lessons about honesty, courage, and kindness.

Join Pinocchio, the little puppet with a big dream, as he journeys through wild adventures—featuring circus magic, puppet shows, pirate ships, techno-trains, and a lively cast of unforgettable characters, from the wise Jiminy Cricket to the cheeky Pussy Galore.
Featuring a world-class creative team, the magic behind the scenes is brought to life by a dream team, including award-winning Musical Director Dale Ray, costume designer Mariska Meyer, lighting designer Johan Ferreira, set designer Enos Ramoroko, production designer Andrew Timm, sound designer Akhona Bozo, and choreographer Khaya Ndlovu.
Meet the amazing cast:
• Katlego Nche stars as the lovable Pinocchio.
• Bongi Archi plays Geppetto Spoletto, his caring toy maker father.
• Gina Shmukler brings magic as the Blue Fairy of Goodness Gracious.
• Sandi Dlangalala is the ever-wise and loyal Jiminy.
• Tiaan Rautenbach adds flair as Dame Arletti Spaghetti, our outrageous Italian Mama.

Pinocchio meets many mischievous characters on his journey including a gang of tricksters and troublemakers who try to lead him astray. These “naughties” are:
• Mark Richardson as Strombolio
• Luciano Zuppa as Masterigo and Fiddelomino
• Brenda Radloff as Ill Fortunato Fox
• Camilla Waldman as Pussy Galore
• Lesedi Rich as Lampwick

Supporting them is a brilliant ensemble, featuring (in alphabetical order): Bo Molefe, Brian Ngobese, Diego Hamity, Donovan Yaards, Inge Lochner, Jordan Rogers, Jordyn Schaefer, Lisa De Wet, Micah Stojakovic, Noluthando Mathebula, Nozi Phehane, Sax Ketshengane, Siya Makakane, Virtuous Kandemiri, and Yahoo Kraft.

Let the Blue Fairy light your way and bring your imagination and inner child along for the ride.
EARLY BIRD SPECIAL: Get 30% off tickets if you book by 31 August!


Mid-week matinee school bookings are processed directly by the theatre. Please call 0118776853 or email happiness@joburgtheatre.com for further information.