Rajesh Gopie, Shikha Budhoo and Shikha Maharaj
Image: Supplied
The Red Mango Arts Festival is set to return to Sastri College in Durban from July 22 to 25 for its second edition, following the successful launch of the event last year.
Founded by acclaimed South African actor, playwright and director Rajesh Gopie, the festival is presented in partnership with Sastri College, Red Mango Creative Arts NPC and the Sastri Alumni Association.
The festival aims to create opportunities for artists, audiences and communities through theatre, music, storytelling, cultural dialogue and artistic collaboration.
This year's programme will feature theatre productions, music concerts, spoken word performances, heritage-focused events, youth development initiatives, industry discussions and international collaborations. The programme places a strong emphasis on contemporary South African storytelling, intercultural narratives and themes of humanity, identity, social justice and healing.
Programme highlights include Sydenham Lightie, Global Ballie by Kurt Egelhof, the Pulitzer Prize-nominated drama Letters of Suresh, and the launch of author Imraan Coovadia’s latest book, Enemy of the People.
Audiences can also look forward to Sufis, Mystics and Qawali, a music, poetry and storytelling concert, as well as performances by the Tshwane University of Technology group, which returns with Mama Mia. Other attractions include Tonya Koenderman’s Getting Old Disgracefully, a comedy evening featuring Jailoshni Naidoo and Friends, youth theatre productions, an open mic session, dance demonstrations, a magic show, line dancing, storytelling performances and a grand finale concert.
Rajesh Gopie and Ralph Lawson
Image: Supplied
In addition to the performances, festivalgoers will have access to book sales, exhibitions, displays, refreshments and outdoor spaces designed for social interaction.
Building on the success of its inaugural edition, the festival will continue to focus on intergenerational participation and accessible community engagement. Schools and youth organisations will once again play a central role in the festival’s outreach efforts, reflecting its commitment to developing future artists and audiences.
The 2026 festival will also expand collaborations with local businesses, educational institutions, cultural organisations and international partners, further positioning Durban as a creative hub rooted in diversity, dialogue and artistic excellence.
Sastri College, located in Greyville near the historic Curries Fountain Stadium, has long been recognised as a significant educational institution and an important part of Durban’s social and cultural heritage.
“Red Mango is ultimately about people,” said Gopie.
“It is about artists being seen, communities reconnecting, young people discovering possibility through creativity, and Durban reclaiming its place as one of the great cultural cities of South Africa.”
Tickets and further information are available through Webtickets.
IOL