Shaka Zulu (Ushaka Ka Zulu) - The Gaping Wound

Shaka Zulu (Ushaka Ka Zulu) - The Gaping Wound is a musical by Bongani Linda.

Also billed as Shaka Ka Zulu or Shaka Zulu: The Gaping Wound.

The original text

In musical form, Shaka Zulu looks at the horrific levels of crime and violence amongst the Zulu against the background of “Shaka’s curse” (According to legend, when King Shaka was killed by his brothers in 1828, his last words were, "You shall never rule in peace. Your rule shall be painted in blood."). The question is asked how the new generation, in a newly liberated country, can break this curse and end the crime and bloodshed.

Translations and adaptations

Performance history in South Africa

2000: First presented, starring Meshack Mavuso-Magabane.

2021: Presented at the South African State Theatre in November. Directed by Meshack Mavuso-Magabane, Musical Directors Simphiwe Skhakhane and Zakhele Mabena. With a cast of forty actors including Thembinkosi Chagwe as Shaka Zulu, Nkanyiso Bhengu, Mduduzi Mabaso, Zodwa Radebe, Zakhele Mabasa Mokone, Mpho Malatsi and Paulinah Manyama. The production dominated the 17th Naledi Theatre Awards in May 2022, scooping six awards in the Best Choreography, Best Musical Director, Best Costume Design, Best Director of Musical Theatre Production, Best Supporting Performance and Best Lead Performance in a Musical.