FOLLOWING its acclaimed 2024 premiere, Orpheus McAdoo returns to the Artscape Theatre from 21 October to 2 November 2025. Written and directed by legendary South African playwright David Kramer and presented in association with Cape Town Opera (CTO) this vibrant musical tells the remarkable true story of Orpheus McAdoo and his Virginia Jubilee Singers, a trailblazing choir of African-American performers who captivated South African audiences in the 1890s.
Cape Town Opera House Soloist Conroy Scott stars in the title role, bringing powerful vocal depth and emotional complexity to McAdoo, a pioneering artist navigating race, identity and fame in colonial-era South Africa. CTO’s Brittany Smith plays his wife, Mattie Allen, leading a stellar cast that blends the opera company’s Vocal Ensemble with well known stage actors including Jody Abrahams, Alexis Petersen, Elton Landrew, Natalie Robbie, Eldon van der Merwe and newcomer Zolani Shangase.
The production features stirring renditions of spirituals, ragtime, early American folk, and South African influences – an evocative soundscape underscoring a poignant story of resilience and cultural exchange. Kramer’s script, layered with humour and humanity, explores the highs and hardships of Black performers touring a racially divided country, bringing audiences a deeply moving and musically rich experience.
The creative team includes musical director Kurt Haupt, arranger Dawid Boverhoff, movement director Fiona du Plooy, set and costume designers Julian David and Maritha Visagie, and lighting designer Kieran Cattel.
Orpheus McAdoo is both a tribute to forgotten musical legacies and a celebration of voices that reshaped how South Africans heard and felt music.
The show runs at Artscape from 21 October to 2 November 2025. Tickets cost from R170 to R520 via Webtickets or Artscape Box Office on 021 421 7695. Pensioner, student and group discounts are available. Please note the Heritage Month Special of 50% off all tickets purchased up until 1 October. No under 5s allowed.
PHOTO CREDIT: Mark Wessels
