ABFAB Drag Show returns to Artscape for two nights of glamour and celebration

Cape Town’s iconic Absolutely Fabulous Drag Show (ABFAB) returns to the Artscape stage on 7 and 8 August 2026, promising two evenings of spectacular entertainment while celebrating the city’s rich drag heritage and vibrant LGBTQIA+ community.

Presented as part of Artscape’s 2026 Women’s Humanity Festival, the production brings together some of South Africa’s leading drag performers in a celebration of diversity, resilience, creativity and self-expression.

Celebrating Cape Town’s drag legacy

For decades, Cape Town has been home to a thriving drag culture, with District Six serving as a creative hub as far back as the 1930s.

ABFAB honours this enduring legacy by showcasing a new generation of performers while paying tribute to the pioneers who helped shape the city’s cultural identity.

Star-studded cast takes to the stage

This year’s production features performances by Vida Fantabisher, Manila von Teez, Kat Gilardi, Jayde Kay Johnson, Angel Lalamore and Mitchell Darling.

Choreography is led by Nkosinathi Sangweni Waka Mtshali, whose dynamic vision is brought to life by an energetic troupe of dancers, while director Basil Appollis returns to helm the production.

Terence Bridgett joins as host

Multi-award-winning actor and entertainer Terence Bridgett will host this year’s show.

Known for his performances in Isidingo, 7de Laan, Disgrace, KITE and G20, Bridgett brings his trademark charisma, humour and theatrical flair to the event.

“I’m absolutely delighted, incredibly excited and deeply honoured to be entrusted with hosting this extraordinary event,” said Bridgett.

“Soli Philander wasn’t simply a brilliant performer; he was a personal hero of mine. No one could ever fill Soli’s shoes, but I hope to honour the legacy, joy and generosity he brought to this stage while bringing a little of my own sparkle to the celebration.”

Honouring South African icons

The 2026 production is dedicated to the memories of Soli Philander and Alfred Rietman, recognising the lasting impact both made on South Africa’s performing arts industry.

The show also pays tribute to the legendary drag queens of District Six during the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s, celebrating their influence on Cape Town’s cultural heritage.

With previous productions consistently selling out, audiences are encouraged to book early.

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