[4][5] They began fundraising to restore the neglected complex that housed the old produce market in downtown Johannesburg.

The steel arches and cathedral-like dome built in 1913 that housed the Indian Fruit Market were considered one of the most important pieces of organic architecture in South Africa.

It was during this turbulent time, on 21 June 1976, that the Market Theatre opened its doors, with Barney Simon as its artistic director.

"The strength and truth of that conviction was acknowledged (...) In providing a voice to the voiceless, The Market Theatre did not forego artistic excellence, but, rather, made a point of it.

"[6] A multitude of anti-apartheid plays were staged, including Reza de Wet's multi award-winning, Diepe Grond,[7][circular reference] and Woza Albert, Asinamali, Bopha, Sophiatown, You Strike The Woman, You Strike A Rock, Born in the RSA and Black Dog – Inj’emnyama.

[1] In 1987, Janet Suzman made her directorial debut, staging a production of Shakespeare's Othello at the theatre.

Suzman offered the titular role to John Kani, who sought the blessing of Mongane Wally Serote before accepting.

The Rockefeller Foundation provided the seed money to start the Market Theatre Laboratory, a drama school founded by Barney Simon and Dr John Kani.

The Lab opened in October 1989 in a small warehouse under the highway in Goch Street, Newtown, and is dedicated to developing community theatre and skills training in the arts.

Over the years, the Market Theatre hosted performances by a number of internationally acclaimed artists, including Athol Fugard.