A Tribute to Memory, Music, and District Six

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From Hanover Street reunites iconic South African performers at Artscape in February 2026 to honour District Six and its history.

Venecia Valentine

Five iconic South African thespians are reuniting after four decades to present a deeply significant musical production rooted in memory, history and cultural legacy.

From Hanover Street will be staged at the Artscape Opera House from 10 to 15 February 2026. The timing is deliberate. The production takes place during the annual period of remembrance for the forced removals from District Six, which began on 11 February 1966.

This musical tribute honours the people, streets, homes and sense of community that were destroyed. It exists to remember, to reflect, and to ensure that the injustices of the past are never repeated.

Honouring legacy through collaboration

This year, David Kramer is joined by Alistair Izobell, Jody Abrahams, Loukmaan Adams and Emo Adams as producers. Together, they carry this story with care, responsibility and deep personal connection.

Their collaboration brings decades of experience in music, theatre and storytelling. More importantly, it reflects a shared commitment to honouring the legacy of District Six and its people, whose stories continue to shape Cape Town’s cultural identity.

Capturing life before displacement

From Hanover Street captures the vibrant life that once flourished in District Six. It reflects the music, laughter and everyday moments that defined the area, while confronting the disruption and trauma caused by forced removals.

The production asks audiences to witness history honestly, listen with intention, and remember with purpose.

A full-circle journey for Alistair Izobell

Inbound SA caught up with Alistair Izobell ahead of the production.

He shared that he was just nine years old when he first performed under the guidance of David Kramer and the late Taliep Petersen. Now 50, I find the experience of returning to this work deeply meaningful.

“It is a really fantastic experience to be getting together, particularly four decades later, playing in the same circle and celebrating the same production that catapulted us into a lifelong career,” he said.

Izobell reflected on the journey of growing from child performers into contributors, writers and producers, alongside creatives who shaped South Africa’s theatrical landscape.

“To be co-producers with Dr Kramer now, after starting as nine-year-old Argus vendors, is a blessing. It is not just an experience. It is a tangible nugget of history.”

He also highlighted the emotional weight of commemorating 60 years since the forced removals.

“This is about ensuring that this will never happen again. That is what this blessing represents.”

A concert-style celebration audiences will recognise

Izobell explained that the production is presented as a concert celebration. It commemorates the people, place, spirit and essence of District Six through music that has become deeply embedded in South Africa’s cultural memory.

He noted that audiences will instantly recognise the anthemic songs. From the opening notes of Klop Klop, to So Long Goodbye, When the South Easter Blows and We Will Remember Wherever We Go District Six, the music evokes powerful collective memory.

“These songs are part of who we are. As soon as you hear the first few notes, you know exactly where you are,” he said.

He described the experience as both a celebration and a responsibility.

“We were chosen to be part of this history. To celebrate it now, with my theatrical brothers and father, while holding space for those no longer with us, is deeply meaningful.”

A performance rooted in remembrance

While 11 February marks the start of the forced removals, the production spans several days to allow space for reflection, learning and commemoration.

From Hanover Street is grounded in memory, respect and responsibility. It offers audiences an opportunity to engage with history through music, storytelling and shared remembrance.