Katlego “KaTT OstReach” Nche Takes the Lead
Katlego “KaTT OstReach” Nche Takes the Lead as Pinocchio in This Year’s Janice Honeyman Pantomime at Joburg Theatre
The Joburg Theatre is thrilled to announce that Katlego “KaTT OstReach” Nche will step into the spotlight as Pinocchio in this year’s much-anticipated Janice Honeyman pantomime, opening 29 October 2025.
For Nche, this role is more than a performance—it’s destiny fulfilled. In 2022, he featured as Pinocchio in Adventures in Pantoland, a Janice Honeyman production that earned a Naledi Award nomination. Now, just three years later, he returns to the Joburg Theatre stage to embody the beloved wooden puppet as the lead character in Pinocchio.
“It feels as though it was written in the stars for me to play Pinocchio,” says Nche. “I first brought the character to life in Pantoland, and now, stepping into the lead role, I feel like I’ve come full circle. It’s magical, humbling, and a dream come true.”
Nche’s career is a testament to versatility and heart. A trained actor, singer, dancer, and director, he has captivated audiences in productions including Seussical Jr., The Jungle Book, Aladdin, and Third World Express. Beyond the stage, he is the founder of OSTREACH, a creative production company that amplifies underrepresented voices and supports charitable initiatives. His work has raised funds for Salvazione Christian School and Johannesburg Child Welfare, reflecting his unwavering commitment to community upliftment.
“Katlego embodies everything that makes pantomime magical—energy, talent, and a boundless heart,” says Xoliswa Ndudeni-Ngema, the CEO of Joburg Theatre. “His journey with Pinocchio is one of growth, passion, and destiny, and we couldn’t be more excited for audiences to experience it.”
With his sights set on inspiring change through performance, Nche continues to prove himself as a dynamic force in South African theatre. And now, as he prepares to bring Pinocchio’s story of courage, truth, and transformation to life, audiences can look forward to a production filled with wonder, laughter, and heart.
Janice Honeyman’s Panto Pinocchio at Joburg Theatre runs from 29 October to 24 December 2025.
Tickets are available at http://www.joburgtheatre.com
For school bookings: Please contact Sizwe on thandisizwe@joburgtheatre.com or 011 877 6917; or Happiness – 011 877 6853 or on happiness@joburgtheatre.com
