In the heart of South Africa’s vibrant arts scene, a groundbreaking transformation is unfolding. The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT), in collaboration with Soda World and the Dumisani Masilela Theatre (DMT), is pioneering a bold new era of theatre and digital storytelling. With the support of the City of Ekurhuleni and the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, this initiative introduces the Smart Theatre Programme—an unprecedented fusion of artificial intelligence (AI), mixed reality (MR), virtual reality (VR), and advanced broadcast technology.
For generations, theatre has been a cornerstone of cultural expression, a space where stories come to life through powerful performances. But in today’s rapidly evolving digital world, creatives face new challenges and opportunities. The Smart Theatre Programme bridges the gap between traditional stagecraft and futuristic innovation, ensuring that South African artists remain at the forefront of global storytelling.
Revolutionizing Storytelling Through Technology
Imagine stepping into a theatre where AI-driven stage effects respond dynamically to a performer’s voice, where virtual reality transports audiences into new worlds, and where live performances seamlessly merge with digital landscapes. The Smart Theatre is more than a space—it’s a training ground for the next generation of artists, writers, directors, and technicians. Here, creatives will learn to integrate technology into their craft, developing skills that will shape the entertainment industry for years to come.
Jessica Denyschen, CEO of ACT, highlights the programme’s transformative impact: “The Smart Theatre marks a defining moment for South African theatre and creative production. By integrating AI, mixed reality, and immersive digital tools, we are equipping artists to lead in global storytelling. Beyond creativity, this initiative provides direct skills transfer for jobs in film, theatre, and digital media.”
Empowering Artists, Elevating the Industry
The Smart Theatre Programme is not just about entertainment—it is a catalyst for economic growth in the creative sector. By providing access to live broadcast capabilities, immersive technology, and AI-powered workflows, this initiative is equipping artists with the tools to create, distribute, and monetize their work on a global scale.
For South Africa, a country rich in cultural heritage and artistic talent, this revolution represents a bold step toward international recognition. No longer confined by geographical limitations, local theatre-makers can now share their stories with the world, connecting with audiences beyond traditional stage performances.
A New Dawn for South African Theatre
The Smart Theatre Programme ensures that South Africa’s creatives are not left behind in the digital revolution. By merging innovation with tradition, this initiative breathes new life into an industry that has long relied on conventional methods. The integration of AI and mixed reality does not replace the essence of theatre—it enhances it, offering artists limitless possibilities to reimagine the stage.
This is more than an evolution—it is a creative renaissance. It is an invitation for artists to dream bigger, for theatregoers to experience the unimaginable, and for South Africa’s cultural footprint to expand beyond its borders.
The Smart Theatre is here, and with it, the future of South African storytelling has never looked brighter.
About the Arts & Culture Trust (ACT)
For over 31 years, ACT has been at the forefront of fostering South Africa’s arts and culture landscape. As the country’s premier independent arts development and investment organization, ACT is dedicated to enabling sustainable futures through innovative projects spanning literature, music, visual art, theatre, and dance. To date, ACT has supported over 830 arts, culture, and heritage development projects nationwide, including small businesses, arts festivals, and community-driven initiatives.
For more information, visit www.act.org.za and follow ACT on social media.
About Soda World
Johannesburg-based Soda World is redefining the live entertainment landscape through its pioneering mixed-reality platform. By seamlessly blending real-world venues with virtual experiences, Soda World is bridging the gap between physical and digital audiences. Recognized on a global stage, Soda World has curated over 100 events, engaging more than 14,000 virtual attendees, with appearances at the MIT Reality Hack in Boston and the Venice Film Festival 2022.
The future of theatre is here—ushering in a new era of AI-powered, immersive storytelling.