Cape Town Opera set to dazzle Europe with Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess

Cape Town Opera is set to embark on an eagerly awaited European tour in September 2026, showcasing George Gershwin's operatic masterpiece, Porgy and Bess. The production, directed by Magdalene Minnaar, marks a significant milestone for the South African performing arts institution. This historic collaboration features a shared stage with London's Chineke!

Orchestra, Europe's first majority Black and ethnically diverse professional orchestra. The production, which will commence on September 11th, will take place at the Philharmonie de Paris, followed by performances in Switzerland, Germany, Antwerp, and Dortmund. This international engagement strengthens Cape Town Opera's global presence, as many of its alumni have pursued successful careers in prestigious European opera houses.

True to Gershwin's vision, the production will feature an all-Black cast, with CTO House Soloist Nonhlanhla Yende and Siyabulela Ntlale in the lead roles of Porgy and Bess. The ensemble includes CTO House Soloists Brittany Smith as Clara, Lukhanyo Moyake as Sportin' Life, Conroy Scott as Crown, and Siphamandla Moyake as Serena. Choreography is by Yaseen Manuel, fight scenes by Tailyn Ramsamy, and costume design by Maritha Visagie.

Minnaar expressed pride in bringing South African operatic excellence to Europe, highlighting the tour's role in showcasing the company's exceptional talent to global audiences. Upon returning from the European tour, Cape Town Opera will resume preparations for its busy year-end schedule at the Artscape Theatre Centre, including performances of Gounod's Roméo et Juliette and Oliver! the Musical.