Sand du Plessis theatre hosts ‘Healing of Hearts’ community production

Arts

─── 09:00 Thu, 07 May 2026

The theatre production “Healing of Hearts”, featuring choirs, acting, mime, and dancers, is centred on delivering a message that healing is possible and available for every heart in every house, family, and community across the nations of the world.

This community project involves children and adults from all over the Mangaung area and is coordinated by Creare Training Centre. Ester Jones and John-Dean Knell joined Yolanda Maartens on the OFM Art Beat to discuss the auditions for this year’s production.

They invite young and old to get involved in their production, which will be showcased in May.

Creare is the Latin and Italian verb meaning “to create” or “to make”, and is the root of the English word create and related terms like creation and creator.

The stage of the Sand du Plessis Theatre has long served as a canvas for Creare’s most profound messages.

In years past, the theatre hosted the powerful production Blood Speaks. The interpretation of the bloodshed on the cross of Christ is the objective message that speaks of reconciliation, forgiveness, freedom, and harmony between people, replacing the narrative of revenge with a message of reconciliation and freedom.

This was followed by the 2023 success, Hope in the House, where 400 participants demonstrated that stability is possible for families even in times of global upheaval. These previous works provided the foundational 20% for what is now set to be their most significant undertaking yet: Healing of Hearts.

Currently, children across the globe – from Gaza and Ukraine to Ethiopia – are facing the devastating effects of war and displacement. Creare identifies a growing risk that these young lives may be shaped by bitterness and hatred, leading to a destructive future.

From the left are Jolene du Plessis, Yolanda Maartens and Kabelo Mokoena.

Healing of Hearts seeks to challenge this trajectory. It operates on the conviction that every life is precious and worthy of being nurtured. The performance will highlight the truth that healthy, peaceful destinies are attainable for every family when the cycle of trauma is broken.

Vision built on grace

The production tells that true vision and strategy cannot flourish in a state of crisis; instead, they must be birthed from a place of hope. This hope is not found in conflict or conquest, but through the grace and forgiveness offered by the Author of life, Jesus Christ.

By finding peace within oneself and extending it to others, the healing of hearts becomes a reality that can transform entire nations.

Creare is inviting the community and local students to be part of this massive theatrical event. Participants will gain invaluable exposure to the arts by performing in a major production in the Sand du Plessis Theatre.

Event details