The South African State Theatre Presents ‘The Unlikely Secret Agent’
16 June 2026
A nation under siege. A woman under interrogation. A secret capable of shaking the foundations of apartheid power.
The South African State Theatre proudly presents The Unlikely Secret Agent, a gripping and politically explosive drama running from 05 to 21 June 2026 at the Arena Theatre in Pretoria.
After rave reviews and sold-out seasons in London, Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg, Paul du Toit’s multi award-winning adaptation of Ronnie Kasrils’ book finally comes to the nation’s capital.
Set in 1963, the production plunges audiences into a country consumed by brutal state repression. Under the State of Emergency, the feared Special Branch arrests and tortures those suspected of resistance.
At the centre of this deeply human story is Eleanor, whose ordinary life is violently disrupted as she is arrested and interrogated by the police. They are hunting for her lover, the notorious anti-apartheid operative, Red Ronnie Kasrils.
The authorities believe they know everything. But Eleanor is hiding a dangerous truth.
“Powerful performances…a gripping piece of theatre” – Cape Robyn
“Full of courage and heart.” – Broadway World
“In equal measures chilling and heart-warming…” – Broadway World
“Packed with adrenaline and excitement and danger.” – Daily Maverick
“…This is what the country needs to be reminded of…” – Scene It
Starring in the role of Eleanor Kasrils is the critically acclaimed Erika Breytenbach and a stellar supporting cast of Carlo Daniels, Ashley Dowds and Ntlanhla Morgan Kutu.
Written and directed by, and also starring Paul du Toit, the production confronts the machinery of violence while shining a spotlight on the often-overlooked role of women within the struggle. The Unlikely Secret Agent promises audiences breath taking theatre that is deeply moving, intellectually gripping, and serves as profound reminder that our freedom was not for free.
Production Details
Production: The Unlikely Secret Agent
Dates: 05 – 21 June 2026
Venue: Arena Theatre, South African State Theatre, 320 Pretorius Street, Pretoria Central, Gauteng
Tickets: R150
Genre: Drama
Age Restriction: 14+
