Cape Town audiences are in for a theatrical treat this October as Wêla Kapela Productions brings its brand-new musical The Tramp to the Artscape Arena from 1 – 11 October 2025. Following its critically acclaimed debut in Johannesburg earlier this year, the show promises to capture the humour, heartbreak, and humanity of Charlie Chaplin in a way audiences have never seen before.
Written and directed by Amanda Bothma, The Tramp is a bold, inventive production that reimagines the story of Chaplin through the eyes of his most beloved creation—the Tramp. Actor Daniel Anderson takes on the dual task of portraying Chaplin’s genius and the bittersweet reflections of his alter ego. Through clever use of audio-visuals, physical comedy, and reimagined popular songs across genres, the show explores themes of identity, fame, and the fragile line between the artist and the character they create.
Johannesburg critics hailed the production as “captivating” and “theatre that reminds us why live performance matters.” Reviewers praised Anderson’s magnetic performance and the show’s innovative blend of humour and poignancy. The production also features the talents of Paul Ferreira, choreography by Sonwa Sakuba, and striking design work from Wilhelm Disbergen and Andrew Timm.
For Cape Town theatre-goers, The Tramp offers more than nostalgia—it’s a chance to rediscover Chaplin’s enduring relevance in an era still grappling with questions of celebrity, scandal, and personal truth. With performances running Wednesdays to Saturdays, and ticket prices accessible to both young audiences and pensioners, the show is set to be a highlight of the Artscape calendar.
Bookings are available via Webtickets and Artscape Dial-A-Seat at 021 421 7695. At just 85 minutes without an interval, The Tramp promises to be a compact yet unforgettable journey into the world of one of cinema’s most complex figures.