Now in its 34th year, the Hilton Arts Festival returns to Hilton College in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands from 7–9 August 2026, unveiling its biggest and boldest programme yet. Promising another unforgettable celebration of South African creativity, the festival is recognised as KwaZulu-Natal’s (KZN) premier cultural event. It attracts more than 25,000 visitors annually.
This year’s Festival introduces two exciting new attractions – the inaugural KZN Art Fair at Hilton Arts Festival and Just Geekin’ at Hilton Arts Festival – adding fresh dimensions to an already outstanding programme of theatre, live music, comedy, visual arts, film, family entertainment and artisanal experiences.
From internationally acclaimed performers and award-winning productions to thought-provoking drama, spectacular live music and immersive cultural experiences, the 2026 Hilton Arts Festival promises an exhilarating weekend showcasing the very best of South African talent.
Festival showstoppers
Arno Carstens For the first time, Arno Carstens performs live at the Hilton Arts Festival with his band, David Watkyns and Giovanni Serci. One of South Africa’s most celebrated artists, Carstens is a platinum-selling singer-songwriter, award-winning musician and accomplished fine artist. He first rose to prominence as the iconic frontman of Springbok Nude Girls before launching a hugely successful solo career spanning eight acclaimed albums. With his distinctive voice, compelling stage presence and fearless creativity, Arno continues to captivate audiences through both his music and visual art.
Behind the Crimson Door – Created by renowned designer Gert-Johan Coetzee in collaboration with performance company The Cirk, Behind the Crimson Door is a spectacular theatrical fashion experience that blends couture, aerial artistry, dance and storytelling. It follows Charlotte, a young farm girl who leaves home to pursue her dreams in the city, celebrating courage, transformation and the magic that unfolds when you dare to step into the unknown.
Constellations – British playwright Nick Payne’s Constellations, directed by Jay Pather, is a captivating two-hander exploring how the smallest choices can dramatically alter the course of our lives. Blending love, science and quantum theory, it is a moving exploration of infinite possibility, heartbreak and hope.
The Drakensberg Boys Choir LIVE in Concert – Affectionately known as South Africa’s “Singing Ambassadors”, the Drakensberg Boys Choir returns with its trademark energy, versatility and world-class musicianship. From traditional choral works to contemporary African rhythms, this promises to be one of the Festival’s musical highlights.
On the drama front
Midnight in Parys – In true Paul Slabolepszy style, Midnight in Parys is edge-of-your-seat theatre with an explosive finale. Tender, topical and emotionally charged, the play explores the fragility of life and the choices that shape our lives, leaving audiences with much to reflect on long after the curtain falls.
The Tramp – This inventive one-man production celebrates the life and legacy of Charlie Chaplin, weaving together the story of the legendary actor and his beloved alter ego, The Tramp. Blending theatre, music and movement, the production features Chaplin’s own compositions alongside imaginative reinterpretations of pop, jazz, rock and musical theatre classics, offering a fresh perspective on the man behind the bowler hat.
The Opera Singer –Featuring Fiona Ramsay, The Opera Singer is a compelling one-act drama exploring sacrifice, legacy and the fragile power of a voice. When a celebrated opera diva nearing the end of her career meets a young journalist determined to capture her story, their encounter raises timeless questions about ambition, love, memory, loss and what it means to leave a lasting legacy.
Out of Bounds – Rajesh Gopie’s internationally acclaimed, award-winning one-man production remains one of South Africa’s great theatrical successes. Through the remarkable portrayal of 28 vividly drawn characters, Out of Bounds offers a humorous, heartfelt and deeply moving exploration of family, identity, culture and belonging. Having toured extensively both locally and abroad, it continues to captivate audiences with its authenticity, warmth and enduring relevance.
“Master Harold”…and the Boys – Athol Fugard’s celebrated South African classic is a deeply autobiographical one-act play set in apartheid-era South Africa during the 1950s. It examines how systemic racism and personal shame fracture the loving relationship between a privileged white teenager and the two Black men who have become his surrogate family.
And the Girls in their Sunday Dresses – Set against the backdrop of an economic crisis in Lesotho, Zakes Mda’s poignant drama follows two women from vastly different social backgrounds who meet while queuing for scarce essentials. As they share a chair and conversation, stories of love, loss, resilience and survival unfold in a moving exploration of class, dignity, friendship and hope.
Shackleton – Back by popular demand, Shackleton recounts one of history’s greatest survival stories. Ernest Shackleton’s ambitious Antarctic expedition descends into a desperate fight for survival after the Endurance is crushed by ice, leaving the crew stranded in one of the harshest environments on earth. Their only hope lies in a fragile lifeboat and an extraordinary voyage across some of the world’s most treacherous seas.
Weightless – Weightless is a beautifully crafted physical theatre work centred on the memories of neighbours living in a city apartment block. As a young girl’s story gradually unfolds, audiences discover a moving tale of grief, compassion and community. Told through half-mask performance and Lecoq-inspired movement, it is a deeply affecting production that balances loss with warmth, humour and humanity.
Epilogue – Tim Plewman’s latest work is an honest, funny and deeply personal reflection on growing older. Moving effortlessly between laughter and heartbreak, Epilogue explores the moments that shape our lives with warmth, wisdom and the masterful comic timing that has made Plewman one of South Africa’s most enduring performers.
Netphlix- Multi-award-winning comedian Sophie Joans returns with Netphlix, a witty and inventive new show that asks one deceptively simple question: what makes a good story? In under an hour, this fearless fringe performer hilariously attempts to recreate the entire Netflix catalogue while reminding audiences of the unique magic of live theatre.
The funny stuff
Stuck in Dubai – South African comedy favourite Dalin Oliver returns to the stage with Stuck in Dubai, a hilarious new stand-up show inspired by an experience no traveller could have imagined. While en route to perform at the Adelaide Fringe Festival, conflict in the region left him stranded in Dubai for four days. In true South African style, Dalin transformed an unexpected travel nightmare into comedy gold, finding laughter, love and plenty of lekkerness along the way.
Bump & Grind – Comedy duo Aaron McIlroy and Lisa Bobbert bring their signature blend of music, mayhem and laugh-out-loud sketch comedy to the Festival in this high-energy theatrical romp. Packed with unforgettable characters, dazzling costume changes, song and dance, Bump & Grind is fast-paced, brilliantly performed and guaranteed to leave audiences in stitches.
Rob van Vuuren LIVE! Multi-award-winning comedy legend Rob van Vuuren returns to the Hilton Arts Festival for one show only. With more than three decades of entertaining audiences around the world, Rob brings his trademark mix of razor-sharp stand-up, outrageous storytelling and wonderfully unpredictable humour to what promises to be one of the comedy highlights of the Festival.
Dead Dad – Reprising his role as the hapless Lukas, award-winning writer and performer Louw Venter returns with Dead Dad, the darkly hilarious sequel to his smash hit The Best Man’s Speech. Venter takes audiences on an emotional rollercoaster as his character attempts to deliver his father’s eulogy – with predictably disastrous results. Sharp writing, superb comic timing and moments of genuine poignancy combine in this unforgettable one-man performance.
Rugby Mad – Aaron McIlroy’s energetic one-man comedy dives headfirst into the wonderfully obsessive world of rugby. Bringing a colourful cast of characters to life, Rugby Mad celebrates the passion, humour and unique culture surrounding the game. Whether you’re a lifelong rugby fanatic or have never watched a match, this fast-paced comedy delivers plenty of laughs, heart and theatrical flair.
The Most Amazing Show with Corné and Twakkie – Before influencers, podcasts and viral videos, there were Corné and Twakkie. South Africa’s cult comedy icons return to the stage with what promises to be their most ambitious, outrageous and gloriously unhinged live production yet. Featuring Rob van Vuuren and Louw Venter, audiences can expect chaos, music, mayhem, razor-sharp satire and plenty of the wonderfully absurd humour that made these legendary characters household names.
Live music mania
Jagged Little Tribute – The Music of Alanis Morissette – Relive the raw emotion, energy and unforgettable sound of the ’90s as Colin Peddie, Tory du Plessis, Paul Cassells and Marion Loudon pay tribute to one of the era’s most influential singer-songwriters. Celebrating the groundbreaking album Jagged Little Pill, this powerful concert revisits the music that defined a generation.
The Carmen Rodrigues Show – Premiering at the Hilton Arts Festival, acclaimed vocalist Carmen Rodrigues joins leading musician and producer Evan Roberts for a bold new theatrical music experience. Beginning as an intimate story of love and loss, What We Become gradually expands into a moving reflection on the human condition – how we break, endure and ultimately rebuild.
Bassey and Me – International cabaret performer Tonya Koenderman celebrates the extraordinary career of Dame Shirley Bassey in this heartfelt musical tribute. Combining Bassey’s timeless songs with personal stories of inspiration, Bassey and Me honours one of the world’s greatest performers while revealing the profound influence she had on Koenderman’s own musical journey.
Britney in the Underworld – Directed by Lisa Bobbert and starring the electrifying Kaylee McIlroy, Britney in the Underworld is a visually striking theatrical production inspired by Britney Spears’ memoir and Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Set to the soundtrack of Britney’s greatest hits, the show explores fame, freedom and identity through an imaginative blend of music, movement and storytelling.
Reflection – A Piano, A Barstool, A Lifetime – Join Samantha Landers and renowned musical director Garth Tavares for an uplifting evening of music and storytelling celebrating life’s twists, triumphs and unexpected turns. Blending heartfelt songs with personal reflections, Reflection reminds us that life’s greatest discoveries are often found when things don’t go according to plan.
Karen and Me – This poignant and often humorous musical tribute celebrates the life and music of Karen Carpenter through the eyes of performer Shannon Kenny. Weaving timeless songs together with stories from both women’s lives, Karen and Me explores the enduring power of music to comfort, inspire and connect across generations.
Better Together – A Jack Johnson Tribute – The Black Lapels, joined by drummer Obed Ephraim, present a laid-back celebration of Jack Johnson’s much-loved catalogue. With warm harmonies, rich acoustic arrangements and sun-soaked rhythms, Better Together captures the relaxed spirit and feel-good vibe that made Johnson’s music a global favourite.
How To Cook Your Husband – Written by Janna Violante Ramos with Darren King and Lisa Bobbert, this deliciously dark comedy cabaret serves up murder, mayhem and music in equal measure. When Marjiet discovers her husband’s infidelity, she concocts an outrageous recipe for revenge, blending wicked humour with popular songs inspired by Chicago, Sweeney Todd, The Sound of Music and more.
Going South – Created by husband-and-wife duo Nicolás and Katharina Rodríguez López of Hot Club D’Afrique, Going South is an original musical collaboration blending jazz, funk, alternative rock and pop. Intricate guitar and bass lines weave together to create richly textured soundscapes inspired by everyday hopes, dreams and shared experiences.
The Mississippi & Me – Guenter “Soul Man” Nerlich and guitarist Heinrich Pelser take audiences on a high-energy musical journey through the American Deep South. Celebrating the rich traditions of blues, soul, rhythm and blues, rock ‘n’ roll and swing, this lively performance captures the spirit and sound of the Mississippi Delta.
Niveshan and Team – Accomplished Carnatic musician Niveshan Munsamy presents an inspiring concert celebrating the beauty, depth and expressive power of South Indian classical music. Featuring traditional compositions, improvisation and works by celebrated composers, the programme offers audiences an engaging introduction to one of the world’s great musical traditions.
Giselle Niemand – Rising star Giselle Niemand brings youthful energy, powerful vocals and original music to the Hilton Arts Festival. Working with Grammy-nominated producer Manny Mijares, she continues to build a reputation as one of South Africa’s exciting emerging performers, connecting with audiences through authentic, engaging live performances.
Melanie Lowe – Award-winning Durban singer-songwriter Melanie Lowe returns to the stage following a break from live performance. First recognised as a finalist on Idols South Africa, she has built a respected career through emotionally honest songwriting and intimate live performances that continue to resonate with audiences.
Dubious Gurus – IAIN “Ewok” Robinson, Jeff Robinson and Logan Byrne combine poetry, jazz, hip-hop and spoken word in this unique performance celebrating rhythm, language and storytelling. Expect sharp observations, infectious musicality, plenty of humour and an evening of thought-provoking entertainment guaranteed to leave audiences smiling.
Music in the Chapel
Homegrown – Bringing together four KwaZulu-Natal-based artists of international stature, Homegrown celebrates world-class classical music with deep local roots. Featuring soprano Nozuko Teto, baritone Bongani Kubheka, saxophonist Maxine Matthews and pianist Christopher Duigan, the programme ranges from operatic favourites to contemporary works for saxophone and piano. A rare opportunity to experience some of the province’s finest musicians sharing one stage.
Opera Trios: Love Triangle – Premiered at the 2026 Suidoosterfees, this entertaining semi-staged production brings together three outstanding young Opera UCT singers – soprano Mia-Lana Slier, mezzo-soprano Lilitha Nkuku and baritone Themba Mdlalose – accompanied by renowned collaborative pianist Dr Lisa Engelbrecht. Featuring music by Handel, Mozart, Strauss, Gilbert & Sullivan, Bizet and Rossini, the programme explores love, intrigue and mistaken identities with humour, romance and theatrical flair.
Guy Buttery – Multi-instrumentalist Guy Buttery returns with the distinctive sound that has made him one of South Africa’s most celebrated musicians. Blending diverse musical traditions with remarkable technical artistry, his performances transcend genres while celebrating the rich musical heritage and spirit of South Africa.
Clifton Collective – Music, memories and magnificent musicianship come together in this uplifting concert by the Clifton Collective. Featuring string ensemble, choir and wind musicians, the programme ranges from the cinematic beauty of Cinema Paradiso to timeless classics including In the Still of the Night, with special guest appearances by Shelley McLean and Nina Watson.
Songs of Praise – Begin your Sunday with an inspiring celebration of music and worship as the Hilton College Music Department presents a joyful programme of much-loved hymns and choral favourites in the beautiful setting of the Festival Chapel.
And everything in between
– A Day in the Desert – Blending physical theatre, European clowning and imaginative storytelling, A Day in the Desert transforms an ordinary day into an extraordinary adventure. With warmth, humour and theatrical invention, this charming production explores friendship, courage, resilience and the joy of embracing life’s unexpected moments.
– World of Wonders! Prepare to be amazed as master illusionist Brendon Peale presents a spectacular showcase featuring some of South Africa’s leading magicians and illusionists. Combining breathtaking illusions with theatrical flair, World of Wonders is an exhilarating celebration of mystery, imagination and the impossible.
– Born Wild, Raised Otherwise – Drawing on two decades as a safari guide, broadcaster and storyteller, James Hendry shares unforgettable encounters from Africa’s wild places, alongside humorous guest experiences and deeply personal reflections. Funny, moving and thought-provoking, this inspiring keynote explores our enduring connection with nature – and why
– Rockjumper Birding – Join internationally respected Rockjumper birding specialists for guided walks, talks and drives through the magnificent Hilton College Estate. Whether you’re an experienced birder or complete beginner, these popular excursions offer a fascinating introduction to the rich birdlife of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands.
– John van de Ruit – Spud: Two for the Road – 21 years after launching the original Spud at the Hilton Arts Festival, bestselling author John van de Ruit brings the exclusive launch of Spud: Two for the Road, the hilarious final instalment of South Africa’s much-loved Spud series, back to Hilton to celebrate the final chapter in Spud’s unforgettable story. Hear behind-the-scenes tales from the books and films, discover why this is his favourite Spud yet, and enjoy the exclusive opportunity to purchase a signed copy a full week before its official release. Admission is free.
Children’s theatre
Turn the Tide – This imaginative waste-puppet production inspires young audiences to care for our oceans by embracing recycling, reducing plastic waste and standing up to pollution. Entertaining, educational and full of heart, Turn the Tide encourages the next generation to become champions for the environment.
Kiss that Frog –The classic tale of The Frog Prince gets a delightfully silly makeover as two bumbling fools bring the story to life using puppets, masks, imaginative props and plenty of laughter. A joyful theatrical adventure for children and families alike.
Film Festival at Hilton Arts Festival – Supported by KZN Tourism & Film
Set against the dramatic KwaZulu-Natal coastline, Sired tells the poignant story of a young girl trapped in circumstances beyond her control. Rich in poetic storytelling and rooted in Zulu heritage, this powerful short film explores motherhood, identity and hidden truths beneath an idyllic landscape. Directed by Mthokozisi Zulu.
Filmed at Edendale Hospital in Pietermaritzburg, Mama-demic follows Dr Ayanda Ntinga as she balances motherhood with life inside one of South Africa’s busiest public maternity wards. An inspiring documentary about resilience, compassion and determination in the face of immense challenges. Directed by Nicole Schafer.
Seven-year-old Thulile’s first solo trip to the local shop becomes every parent’s nightmare when a stranger lures her off course. This compelling short film, Sent, explores childhood innocence, vulnerability and the importance of staying safe in an unpredictable world. Directed by Ayanda Halimana.
This intimate documentary follows acclaimed Gqom producer Mxshi Mo from the foothills of the Drakensberg to international recognition. Reflecting on losing his sight and discovering electronic music, 6Sense is a moving story of resilience, creativity and hope. Directed by Amilcar Patel.
Raised by a single mother, 12-year-old Alakhe sets out to find the father he has never known after being chosen to deliver a Father’s Day speech at school. Father’s Day is a touching exploration of identity, belonging and family. Directed by Tumelo Lekana.
The River Gives follows the inspiring EnviroChamps from Imbali and Ashdown as they work to protect their local rivers and wetlands while confronting pollution and the challenges facing their communities. An uplifting story of environmental stewardship and grassroots action. Directed by Mlungisi Ntuli.
Beyond the stage
Discover a world of creativity in this year’s Design & Makers Quarter, where talented local artisans and designers showcase beautifully handcrafted pieces for the home, office and public spaces. From ceramics, textiles and wall art to woodwork, crockery, soft furnishings and floor coverings, visitors will find original creations that combine exceptional craftsmanship with contemporary design.
The ever-popular Craft Market remains the vibrant heart of the Festival, with more than 100 carefully selected stalls offering an irresistible mix of handcrafted products, artisan foods, clothing, jewellery, textiles, homeware, collectibles and delicious local fare.
A landmark addition to the 2026 Festival, the inaugural KZN Art Fair at Hilton Arts Festival celebrates the remarkable depth and diversity of the province’s visual arts sector while creating an important new platform for artists, galleries and collectors. Hosted in Hilton College’s Memorial Hall, the professionally curated Fair will feature gallery presentations, talks, workshops, book launches and collector events, strengthening KwaZulu-Natal’s creative economy and further enhancing the Festival’s reputation as one of South Africa’s premier cultural events.
Making its Festival debut in 2026, Just Geekin’ at Hilton Arts Festival celebrates the vibrant worlds of gaming, comics, fantasy and pop culture, creating an exciting space for enthusiasts of all ages. From eSports tournaments, trading card and tabletop games to cosplay, comic launches, workshops, film screenings and an Artist Alley, it introduces a new generation to the Festival through creativity, storytelling and shared passions.
In a nutshell
Hilton Arts Festival 2026
Book: Webtickets
View the full Festival programme: Here
Festival entrance is a once-off R100 per vehicle, valid for all three days.
