Entertainment in Johannesburg, South Africa

The nightlife in Johannesburg has long been the envy of all other major cities in the country. And, despite the fact that the city has a reputation for being unsafe, if you stick to the recommended districts, you should be able to enjoy trouble free evenings which usually run into very late nights or very early mornings, depending on how you define yours.

For those of you who like nothing better than using up surplus energy in a thumping nightclub, head to Hillbrow and Yeoville where you will find some of the best clubs in the city. As well as a variety of clubs, however, there is also a wonderful mix of music on offer. From that which you listen to back home to the unique traditional African sounds of mbaganga, kwaito and soukuos, a visit to a Johannesburg club is something that any visitor should try at least once. And, after the first time, rest assured you will keep going back for more.

The city also has an excellent selection of live theatre and performing arts. There is a performance on somewhere every night so if comedy or cabaret are your idea of a good night out, be sure to check out one of the multitude of theatres in the city. For up to date details on all shows you should check out the Johannesburg Star and also inquire about the area before you buy your tickets.

Johannesburg is also home to some of the best jazz clubs in the country and again, there are live gigs on somewhere every night. Playing host to both national and international stars, these are an excellent choice for a more relaxed evening out but if you find it too relaxed, there’s always a club near by too. For information on jazz and for all live entertainment in the city, the Daily Mail and Guardian has an excellent guide every Thursday.

* Downtown Johannesburg is dangerous, particularly at night, so you should try to avoid it at all costs. Also, when going out at night ask someone who knows about an area if it’s safe before you leave and call a taxi to take you there and back. And, try not to look like a tourist, don’t carry a camera around your neck or wear a moneybelt and don’t hang your bag on your shoulder either as it would appear that this is perceived as an open invitation to snatch it. If you remember these simple points, your stay in the city will be a pleasant one and it would be a pity to jeopardise this through carelessness.