“The Smart Theatre marks a defining moment for South African theatre and creative production…”
The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT), in collaboration with Soda World and the Dumisani Masilela Theatre (DMT), has announced 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 ground-breaking 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.”
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.
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.
SA Positive News