Sekunjalo
Sekunjalo (“The Hour is Come”) is a play by Gibson Kente (1932-2004).
Written and produced in 1987 as a sequel to Bad Times Mzala.
Contents
The original text
A controversial township-musical style play on the threat of anti-capitalist and anti-Christian sentiments in the future proposed by the ANC and its allies. The play explores themes of discrimination, so-called “black on black” violence, sanctions, nepotism, tyranny and disregard for human rights.
The play attracted the attention of township activists who accused Kente of being naïve. At the same time the police banned the play on the basis that it would incite anti-government protest.
Translations and adaptations
In 1988, Kente adapted/expanded it as a musical called Sekunjalo, the Naked Hour.
Performance history in South Africa
1987: Performed at the National Arts Festival in July, 1987, described by the author as a tragi-comedy.
1988: Sekunjalo, the Naked Hour, was directed by Gibson Kente and played in the Wits Theatre on 14 June 1988 and in the Arena, State Theatre in October 1988 and the Alexander Theatre. The cast included Chunky Mtshali, Tonique Hpale, Susan Theletsane, Brian Mazibuko, John Lata, Skhumbuzo Kubeka, Zakithi Dlamini, Monika Mana, Desmond Dlomo, Ziyaya Moya, Sam Mpondo.
Sources
The Star 16 May 1988 and Pretoria News, October 1988, p 17.
National Arts Festival Programme, 1987
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