The Tramp is back at Theatre on the Square in Sandton, with actor Daniel Anderson returning to the stage in the popular pocket musical about the life of Charlie Chaplin.

The one-man show runs for 85 minutes with no interval and tells Chaplin’s story through his most famous character, The Tramp. The production uses reworked versions of well-known songs, performed live with pianist Paul Ferreira.

According to Anderson, the heart of the show is not really about fame, but about something more personal.

“The heart of the show is about the inner child that exists in all of us. It asks what happens when we betray that part of ourselves and forget the things that once made life wonderful.” Although Chaplin is a global icon, Anderson believes South African audiences will strongly relate to the character.

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“Chaplin’s physical style connects closely with how we do theatre in South Africa. It’s lively, physical and playful. The Tramp is recognised everywhere.” The show also touches on political themes, including misinformation and fake news.

“This is how the most famous man in the world was brought down by power-hungry people through lies. When you look at what’s happening in the world today, the parallels are scary.”

@caxtonjoburgnorth In The Tramp, actor Daniel Anderson steps into the shoes of Charlie Chaplin on February 10, 2026 at Sandton. Video: Duduzile Khumalo #caxtonlocalmedia #News #Community #Localnews #SA #2026 #johannesburg #Schools #Act ♬ original sound Caxton Joburg North

Anderson said performing with live piano adds to the emotional depth of the show. “Live music allows us to respond to the moment. What the audience feels, we feel too.”

The Tramp runs from February 11 to 28 at Theatre on the Square, Sandton.

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