Latest news with #Sarafina!
The Citizen
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
A ‘cultural warrior' remembered: Joburg Theatre launches the Mbongeni Ngema Festival
The festival opened on 1 June with the unveiling of Ngema's star on the Diamond Walk of Fame. A person's influence and contributions to society become more evident after they've died; this is evinced in how others elongate their legacy after their demise. Renowned South African playwright Dr Mbongeni Ngema is one of those, as the Joburg Theatre is honouring him through the inaugural Mbongeni Ngema Festival. 'Dr Mbongeni Ngema was not just a playwright or composer; he was a cultural warrior whose work gave voice to the voiceless and told our stories with fearless honesty and immense beauty,' said Artistic Director at Joburg City Theatres James Ngcobo. 68-year-old Ngema passed away in a head-on collision in Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape, on the evening of 27 December 2023. 'As the City of Joburg, it is both our duty and our privilege to honour his legacy.' The Mbongeni Ngema Festival kicked off on the first of this month, and the opening day was marked by the unveiling of Ngema's star on the theatre's diamond walk of fame. Sunday was also the opening of the theatre production, Sarafina! ALSO READ: SABC accused of stealing Mbongeni Ngema's TV show idea and could face legal action Sarafina! and the G20 Summit The Joburg Theatre is staging Ngema's Sarafina! running until 15 June. The play is directed by Mpho Molelpo, choreographed by Nompumelelo Gumede-Ngema. Ngcobo says the staging of the politically inspired play is a bold cultural statement, considering the city plans to host the G20 Summit later this year. 'As Joburg prepares to host the world during the G20 Summit, staging Sarafina at Joburg Theatre right in the heart of the City of Gold serves as a bold cultural statement,' he said. 'It reflects the city's commitment to showcasing its rich artistic heritage on the global stage. In honouring Dr. Mbongeni Ngema's legacy during this pivotal moment, Joburg affirms its role as an economic powerhouse and a beacon of African storytelling, resilience, and creative excellence.' ALSO READ: Why Sarafina's soundtrack could be just better than the actual film The Zulu Another of Ngema's plays, The Zulu, will be performed on the Joburg Theatre stage during the playwright's festival. The two-hander is led by actors Abdul Khoza and Nhlakanipho Manqele. The Zulu delves deep into the history of the Zulu nation. 'In programming this production at Joburg Theatre, we aimed to honour Mbongeni Ngema's contributions, as they encapsulate the diverse traditions that have influenced the community, fostering a deep connection to their significant legacy,' shared Ngcobo. The Zulu opens this Friday night and will run until the festival's completion on 22 June. NOW READ: Sarafina! becomes first SA film to return to Cannes Film Festival after 30 years
IOL News
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Celebrate Youth Month with powerful Jozi productions: 'The Good White' and 'Sarafina!'
Vusi Kunene, Shonisani Masutha, Russel Savadier and Renate Stuurman are the all-star cast in 'The Good White'. Image: Ngoma Mphahlele With this being Youth Month, the following poignant productions are not to be missed. The Good White This production by Mike van Graan transports the audience back to 2016, when Jacob Zuma was running the country, corruption was rife, and the #FeesMustFall movement gained momentum. Set against a backdrop ripe for introspection, the play focuses on four characters – portrayed by Russel Savadier, Renate Stuurman, Vusi Kunene, and Shonisani Masutha – as they grapple with fundamental questions about their beliefs, identities, and the paths they have chosen. Directed by Greg Homann, this production serves as both a forceful critique and a thought-provoking reflection. The play's power and theatricality combine to create an experience audiences will not soon forget. Please note, it has a PG-13 age restriction. Where: Market Theatre. When: June 4 - 8, 7pm. Sarafina! This is a special restaging of the critically acclaimed musical, a tribute to Dr Mbongeni Ngema. Telling a crucial part of South Africa's story, 'Sarafina!' entertains, uplifts, and empowers young people. Set against the backdrop of Morris Isaacson High School in Soweto, the story unfolds in the wake of the historic events of 1976, when approximately 200 000 black students united in protest against the apartheid regime's oppressive education system. Through its captivating performances and evocative music, 'Sarafina!' strives to bring this significant moment in history to life, reminding audiences of the enduring spirit of resistance and the ongoing quest for social and political justice. With its moving story, it celebrates the strength and bravery of South Africa's female heroes, highlighting their sacrifices and victories in the struggle against oppression. Directed by the renowned Mpho Molepo, with choreography by the innovative Nompumelele Gumede-Ngema, this production carries a PG-10 age restriction. Where: Mandela Theatre at Joburg Theatre. When: June 4 to 15, 11am.
