Sisters Grimm Announces Historic South African Premiere of INALA: A Homecoming for a Global Cultural Phenomenon
We are thrilled to announce that London’s award-winning creative company, Sisters Grimm, will present the South African premiere of the Grammy-nominated, smash hit musical INALA. This special moment marks the global relaunch of the show ahead of its permanent residency as one of the premier West End shows in London, hosted at the House of Sisters Grimm.
This gala night will take place on May 22 at Joburg Theatre, in the iconic Mandela Auditorium. The one-off event celebrates the return of a cultural phenomenon with a night of artistic excellence.
INALA celebrates South African heritage and talent, featuring music co-written between 2009–2014 by the legendary Joseph Shabalala, world-famous Ladysmith Black Mambazo, and Ella Spira MBE. The 2025 production proudly features the voice of Ndaba Mandela and choreography by Mark Baldwin OBE.
To date, the show has graced some of the world’s most prestigious stages, including the Royal Albert Hall, Hampton Court Palace, and Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, and has played for royalty on multiple occasions, consistently earning standing ovations.
Following its world premiere at the Edinburgh International Festival in 2014, INALA received widespread critical acclaim, including a Grammy nomination for Best World Music Album in 2016 . With millions of views worldwide and outreach programs that have benefited over 12,000 children, the production reflects Sisters Grimm’s commitment to social empowerment through the arts.
In recognition of INALA’s global success and significant impact on international trade and the creative industries, King Charles awarded MBEs to the founders—creative producer and former Royal Ballet ballerina Pietra Mello-Pittman, and painter and composer Ella Spira.
Immersive Experience Access by Invitation Only
This unique event offers two distinctive experiences to enjoy:
- Immersive Experience (by Invitation Only):
Guests will experience an exclusive pre-show drinks reception, followed by a post-show party for distinguished guests and the artists. Guests will enjoy a specially curated selection of South African fine wines, bespoke cocktails, and gourmet nibbles, alongside the unveiling of 19 new landscape paintings by multidisciplinary artist Ella Spira MBE — each piece painted in situ across South Africa.
- Performance Experience (General Admission):
Guests will be taken on an emotional journey, through a powerful live Gala performance that celebrates the spirit and richness of South African culture.
All attendees can expect an unforgettable evening, sharing the space with global celebrities, sports figures, diplomats, and cultural leaders, both on and off the stage.
Sisters Grimm is excited to collaborate with renowned bar Sin + Tax, known for its innovative and imaginative cocktails. Recognized as one of the world’s best bars, Sin + Tax stands as a beacon of Johannesburg’s vibrant nightlife. Our partnership for the presentation of INALA promises an extraordinary experience for invited guests.
Additionally, we are proud to partner with Spirits & Bubbles to bring the South African fine wines to the West End residency.
This remarkable collaboration underscores Sisters Grimm’s commitment to celebrating local talent and promoting South African culture on an international stage.
INALA is set to mesmerize audiences in Johannesburg, paving the way for its transfer to the West End at the House of Sisters Grimm.
As a multicultural, female-driven, B Corp-certified company, Sisters Grimm is dedicated to delivering high-calibre, cross-cultural arts experiences that push boundaries and uplift communities.
Join us in celebrating this momentous occasion and be part of the journey that brings the heart and soul of South Africa to the world.
Can’t Join Us in Johannesburg? We’re Bringing the Magic to London.
Join our waiting list to be the first to experience one of the most anticipated London West End shows of the year—a reimagined immersive experience that brings South African music, art, and wine to the global stage.
For more information and media inquiries, please contact press@sisters-grimm.co.uk.