The Dome (Goldrush Dome)

The Dome (also known as the Goldrush Dome) is a 10,500-capacity indoor entertainment venue in Nasrec, Johannesburg, adjacent to FNB Stadium. Opened in January 2025, it is South Africa's largest dedicated indoor live entertainment space. Live Nation operates the venue in partnership with Stadium Management South Africa (SMSA) and Gearhouse South Africa. It is best suited for mid-to-large-scale touring concerts, pan-African talent showcases, conferences, and exhibitions.

History

The original Coca-Cola Dome (later TicketPro Dome) in North Riding, Randburg, was Johannesburg's primary indoor concert venue from 1998 to 2021. It hosted Diana Ross, Mariah Carey, Katy Perry, Sam Smith, the NBA Africa Game (2017), and Cassper Nyovest's #FillUpTheDome (2015). That venue closed in September 2021 and was sold to WeBuyCars, which converted it into a used car showroom.

Live Nation announced the new Dome in November 2024 as its first permanent venue in Africa. The facility was entirely designed, manufactured, and built in South Africa. It opened in January 2025 with a 10,500-person capacity across 6,000 square meters of configurable floor space. The Goldrush Group backs the venue, and SMSA manages it as part of its agreement with the City of Johannesburg.

How the Venue Operates

The Dome features a modular design that adapts to concerts, award shows, trade expos, corporate conferences, product launches, and gala dinners. The high-ceiling layout can transform from stadium-scale concert configurations to intimate corporate galas. Live Nation handles concert bookings, bringing both international touring acts and local pan-African artists to the venue.

The venue sits in Nasrec's growing entertainment corridor, alongside FNB Stadium and the Expo Centre. It is accessible via the Gautrain (with park-and-ride connections) and the Rea Vaya bus system. The M1 highway and Soweto Highway provide vehicle access from anywhere in Johannesburg.

2026 Programming

The Dome's 2026 programming focuses on Amapiano, Afrobeats, pop, hip-hop, and R&B. The venue has positioned itself as a hub for pan-African talent, with events spanning concerts, conferences, and exhibitions. Check the SMSA Dome page for current event listings.

Why It Matters for Independent Artists

The Dome fills a gap in Johannesburg's live music infrastructure that existed since the original Dome closed in 2021. For independent South African artists, the venue represents a realistic target for a headline show once they can demonstrate ticket sales of 3,000 to 5,000 in the Johannesburg market. The venue's modular design means it can be configured for smaller capacities, making it accessible to acts that are not yet at full 10,500 capacity.

For international independent artists touring South Africa, The Dome is a strong target venue for the Johannesburg leg of a tour. Live Nation's involvement means the venue is connected to the global touring circuit, which can help with routing and support slot opportunities. Read our international touring guide for routing strategies across Africa.

Drawbacks and Things to Consider

• The venue is in Nasrec, not in Johannesburg's entertainment districts. Attendees must drive or use public transit. Parking follows FNB Stadium protocols, which can be challenging during large events.
• The Dome is new (opened 2025) and still building its reputation. The original Dome in North Riding had 23 years of history and brand recognition. This venue must establish itself from scratch.
• As a Live Nation venue, booking is controlled by a major promoter. Independent artists cannot simply rent the space. They must work through Live Nation or an approved promoter.
• The 10,500 capacity is smaller than the original Dome's 19,328 standing capacity. Very large-scale concerts that would have filled the old Dome may need to use FNB Stadium instead.

Related Resources

• Tour Revenue Calculator - Estimate earnings from live performances
• How to Book Your First Tour: Step-by-Step Guide
• Touring Internationally as an Independent Artist
• 21 Ways Musicians Can Earn Income - Revenue streams including live shows
• The Dome at Stadium Management South Africa