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The future of theatre and digital storytelling is here. The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT), in collaboration with Soda World and the Dumisani Masilela Theatre (DMT), proudly announces the launch of South Africa’s first-ever Smart Theatre. Supported by the City of Ekurhuleni and the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, this groundbreaking initiative will be introduced at an exclusive Executive & Media Launch on 19 March 2025, from 13:00 to 15:30 at the Dumisani Masilela Theatre in Germiston.
This pioneering space is designed to merge artificial intelligence (AI), mixed reality (MR), virtual reality (VR), and broadcast technology into live theatre production, transforming the way South African creatives engage with the world. The Smart Theatre Programme will serve as an advanced training hub for performers, writers, directors, and technicians, providing the necessary tools to create, distribute, and monetise their work across global digital platforms.
Jessica Denyschen, CEO of the Arts & Culture Trust, emphasised the revolutionary impact of this project, stating: “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.”
Exclusive Launch Event Details
Join us for an immersive experience featuring:
✔ Live demonstrations of the Smart Theatre System
✔ A guided walkabout showcasing the theatre’s newly integrated technology
✔ Discussions with key stakeholders and industry leaders
- Date: 19 March 2025
- Venue: Dumisani Masilela Theatre, Germiston
- Time: 13:00 – 15:30
- RSVP Deadline: 13 March 2025
A Game-Changer for South African Storytelling
The Smart Theatre Programme ensures that South African theatre-makers and digital artists remain at the forefront of the global creative economy. By equipping artists with live broadcast systems, immersive technology, and AI workflows, the initiative aims to redefine storytelling and stagecraft for the digital age.
To attend this exclusive launch or request media interviews, please contact: Keitumetse Mbatha:marketing@act.org.za or RSVP via www.act.org.za/smarttheatre. ENDS
About the Arts & Culture Trust – 31 years of supporting arts in South Africa
The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) is South Africa’s premier independent development and art investment organisation. The primary aim of ACT is to increase the capacity for arts and culture initiatives to create sustainable futures through development and investment in innovative, sustainable projects that make a meaningful contribution to society. Through structured development programmes, ACT provides support to all expressions of arts and culture, including literature, music, visual art, theatre, and dance. This support extends to festivals, community arts initiatives, arts management, arts education, and arts administration. Over the past 31 years ACT has supported more than 830 arts, culture, and heritage development projects countrywide, including small businesses. For more information, please visit the ACT website, follow them on X, or like their Facebook page.
About Soda World
Soda World, a pioneering mixed-reality platform based in Johannesburg, is revolutionizing the live music and cultural event experience in Africa and beyond. Founded in 2023, Soda World uniquely blends real-world venues with virtual reality, transforming live cultural events into immersive virtual experiences and connecting global audiences to African culture. Recognized as a worldwide leader in mixed reality physical-to-virtual events, Soda World has produced over 100 events, engaging more than 14,000 people virtually. Their innovative approach has garnered international acclaim, including participation in the prestigious MIT Reality Hack in Boston and a showcase at the Venice Film Festival 2022.