A bold new musical is combining African, Cape, Shakespeare and Broadway into one magical experience this Sunday.
The Call is a queer African musical that places joy, artistry and survival at the heart of its storytelling.
Inspired by Shakespeare’s The Tempest, the production reimagines the classic through South African history and queer lived experience, using African drag as a creative and theatrical language to shape narrative, conjure spectacle and celebrate the brilliance of marginalised communities.
Brought to life by South African-born, New York-based Tony-nominated and award-winning producer and theatre director, Chesray Dolpha, this must-see production celebrates the colour, creativity and resilience of queer life on the African continent.
It is a story that is deeply rooted in local experience while speaking to audiences around the world.
At the centre of this ambitious project is Chesray Dolpha, serving as Executive Producer and Producer.
Dolpha, a dynamic force on the Broadway theatre and music production scene, is guiding The Call from concept to stage, ensuring it remains rooted in authenticity while reaching for international impact.
Dolpha said: “This work is about claiming space. It’s about joy as resistance, beauty as a political act, and telling African queer stories that exist beyond trauma. We want to show that our communities are rich with creativity, resilience and hope.”
Born and raised in the Cape Flats communities of Uitsig and Belhar, Dolpha’s journey from local stages in South Africa to the bright lights of Broadway is nothing short of extraordinary. She has become a respected storytelling strategist, and visionary arts leader in Broadway circles and is passionate about bringing SA queer voices to the global stage.
The event takes place this Sunday, 9 November at The Outlore Base in 80 Hout Street and tickets are available at Quicket at R150.
Gig guides
- The Address presents The Reunion with headliner Mr Thela alongside DJ Skara, Oxy Naran, DJ Secret and DJ Tyrease on Friday. Entry is R100 at the door.
- It’s Jagger Fridays at the Jagger Lounge with music by Ikon, Kixi and The Dean of Soul spinning the hottest tracks. Entry is free.
- Celebrate Tashriek’s birthday bash on Saturday at The Address with Summer Heynes, Tashriek Music, DJ Max, Groovers CPT, Maloo, Reece Jayden and DJ Lenny on the line up. Entry is R100 for general admission on Quicket and R100 at the door.
- Elsies River High School presents a benefit concert this Sunday featuring Don Vino Prins, Veronica Meyer, Pastor Wilmot Fredericks, Chrystal Swanson and many more. Tickets are R100 and the concert starts at 3.30pm.