Buzani Kubawo

Buzani Kubawo (“Ask father” – Xhosa) is a play by W.K. Tamsanqa.

The original text

A drama about love, family relationships and conflicts that arise when traditional expectations clash with changing values, it tells the story of Zwalakhe, who is indirectly responsible for the butchering of Gugulethi’s family, since he forced him to marry someone he did not love. The text was published by Oxford University Press in 1958.

It has long been a Xhosa set work for Grades 11 and 12.

Translations and adaptations

Translated into Setswana by W.K. Tamsanqa, with G.S. Gaetsewe, as Botsang Rre and published in 1965.

Performance history in South Africa

2017: Performed as Buzani Ku Bawo by Artscape and taken on tour in the greater Cape Town area to be seen by thousands of isiXhosa learners. Then performed at the Artscape Theatre from 19 to 29 July. Directed by Thokozile Ntshinga, Director for Artscape’s Inclusive Arts Unit.