Under the Baobab Tree at The National Children’s Theatre

Under the Baobab Tree will explode onto the stage on 19 June to 24 July 2022 at our outdoor IMAGINATION theatre. This National Children’s Theatre production is a sprightly follow on from NCT’s ground-breaking and Naledi award-winning production of Khokho’s Treasure.

The production delivers a charming selection of traditional stories, vibrant songs, pulsating rhythms, African drums and lively dance to educate and entertain all primary school learners (ages 4 and up).

NCT’s professional, energetic and multi-talented cast takes audiences on an original, action-packed interactive jaunt, and point to essential life-lessons at the same time: lessons about values and friendship, about being creative and self-sufficient, and instilling a sense of pride in our rich, unique South African culture and heritage. This show values all of us as proud South Africans with a rich rainbow heritage and culture.

The story begins when their beloved Jack passes on. As they all gather UNDER THE BAOBAB TREE the local children are surprised to hear that they have inherited a large dusty old suitcase. They call their friends to help open the suitcase and carefully uncover their treasure of mementos: some old photographs, a tape recorder, traditional garments, hats, animal bones and other odds.

They have great fun remembering stories that uncle Jack told, using these ‘treasures’ and listening, eventually singing and dancing to music from uncle Jack’s collection, including Miriam Makeba, Mango Groove, Freshly Ground and Johannes Kerkorrel.

This charming South African production will enthrall and entertain young audiences and teach them some valuable lessons about friendship, UBUNTU and the rich diversity of South African cultures.