Andrew Buckland returns with The Fool’s Guide… to Living and Dying

Award-winning actor and theatre-maker Andrew Buckland returns to the Baxter Studio this August with his critically acclaimed solo production, The Fool’s Guide… to Living and Dying.

The limited season runs from 4 to 15 August 2026, with performances at 7:30pm and Saturday matinees at 2:30pm.

A satirical look at life in the age of AI

Written by Andrew and Janet Buckland and directed by Janet Buckland, the fast-paced, highly physical production explores the human condition in the era of artificial intelligence and social media.

Blending Buckland’s signature clowning, sharp satire and emotional storytelling, the play follows Milton Yonaire, played by Buckland, as he embarks on a mission to rescue his son Billy from the TechBro Overlords.

Along the way, audiences encounter an unforgettable cast of characters, including a devoted fan, a vulnerable Teacup Yorkie, a mysterious robot vacuum cleaner and a series of surreal personalities in a theatrical adventure filled with humour, twists and unexpected revelations.

“Will Milton Yonaire be able to save his son Billy before the TechBro Overlords do their worst?” asks Buckland. “Can Billy survive the exploitation of a corrupt social media platform? Can The FaNarrator protect her beloved Yorkie, Porky, from an assassination plot? And what secret is carried by the Home Robot Vacuum Cleaner?”

Critics praise Buckland’s latest production

The production has received widespread acclaim from critics.

The Critter described it as:

“Probably the most superbly performed modern-day cautionary tale you are likely to witness by a solo storyteller.”

The Cape Robyn praised the production as:

“A wacky, wry, hilarious and clever wild car ride through the AI-influenced landscape.”

Broadway World highlighted the balance between serious themes and comic storytelling, while Daily Maverick celebrated Buckland’s ability to remind audiences:

“How cool it is to be a living, breathing, feeling human being.”

Award-winning production

The Fool’s Guide… to Living and Dying received three Kanna Award nominations for:

• Best Debut Production
• Best Director
• Best Actor

Andrew Buckland won the Best Actor award.

The production also received an Ovation Award at the National Arts Festival, while Janet Buckland earned a Standing Ovation Award for her direction.

A celebrated theatre partnership

For more than four decades, Andrew and Janet Buckland have created internationally acclaimed theatre known for its physical performance, satire and celebration of our shared humanity.

Presented by Mouthpeace and commissioned by the Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees 2026, The Fool’s Guide… to Living and Dying is recommended for audiences aged 12 years and older.

Bookings are now open through Webtickets and at Pick n Pay stores.

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