Cape Town – The beloved winter theatre tradition at Canal Walk returns this year with Peter Pan, marking the 24th production to take the stage at Centre Court.
Audiences can look forward to spectacular flying scenes, magical fairy dust, and adventurous pirate exploits as the show runs from 27 June to 19 July 2026.
Each winter, Canal Walk transforms its Centre Court into a vibrant theatre stage, a cherished tradition that has been upheld for more than thirty years.
This year’s performance brings J.M. Barrie’s classic tale of Peter Pan to life, featuring a menacing crocodile and the ongoing conflict between Peter and his rival, Captain Hook.
“Peter Pan marks our 24th production at Canal Walk, and it’s the ideal story to celebrate this occasion,” shared Vanessa Herbst, Marketing Manager at Canal Walk.
“For over twenty years, the school holidays at Canal Walk have become synonymous with live theatre for families in the community.
“Seeing children return year after year to share the experience with their own kids is what keeps this tradition alive.”
An adventure of family, fun, and old rivalries
The story unfolds with Wendy, John, and Michael Darling, whose ordinary nursery in London gets a whimsical twist when Peter Pan flies in through the window in search of his lost shadow.
Wendy helps him retrieve it, and in gratitude, Peter teaches the children to soar, whisking them away to Neverland, where aging is simply forgotten.
In Neverland, they meet Tinker Bell, the Lost Boys, Tiger Lily, and a fearsome crew of pirates led by the notorious Captain Hook, who has a vendetta against Peter due to an old dispute connected to a crocodile and his lost hand.
Their exploits include daring rescues, heaps of mischief, and eventually, the journey back home.
Killian Blerk takes on the role of Peter Pan, with Rachael Saunders as Wendy Darling and Jeremy Richard as Mr. Darling and Captain Hook. Kaira Naidoo shines as Tinker Bell, while Evan Marinakos portrays Pirate Smee.
They are joined by Tim Truran, Jade Tayla, Andi Colombo, Anzio September, Asanda Mngadi, and Jonan Mouton, who bring to life characters ranging from mermaids to Lost Boys.
“Peter Pan allowed us to infuse the Canal Walk stage with scenes of flight, fairy dust, and a touch of mischief,” co-directors Fred Abrahamse and Marcel Meyer noted in a joint statement.
“J.M. Barrie’s story has remained relevant for over a century because it poses a timeless question: what would it be like to never grow up?
“We hope families in Cape Town experience that magic, complete with pirates, mermaids, and more.”
Heidi Rowley, Head of Fundraising at Reach for a Dream Foundation in Cape Town, added: “This year’s performance will support Reach for a Dream, a foundation committed to granting wishes for children battling cancer, with a portion of ticket and program sales contributing towards the foundation’s work in Cape Town.
“Every ticket purchased helps grant another wish for a child in need of hope.”
As in previous years, there will be no reserved seating, so early arrival is recommended. With past productions often selling out, Canal Walk encourages families to secure their tickets in advance.
Show Details
Venue: Canal Walk Centre Court
Dates: 27 June to 19 July 2026 (closed Mondays)
Times: 11am, 12:30pm, and 2pm
Tickets: From R130pp via Webtickets: bit.ly/4dZVQTG
Directors: Fred Abrahamse and Marcel Meyer
Running Time: 60 mins (no interval)
Recommended Age: From age 2 and above
www.canalwalk.co.za
