Meropa
Meropa is the title of a variety musical show originally created by Cocky Thlothlalamaje and the Phoenix Players, subsequently adapted by Corney Mabaso.
Also known as Isintu, KwaZulu or Meropa: The Drums of Africa.
The play
The music of was drawn from traditional tribal folklore with original songs and music by Victor Ntoni and was first performed by the Phoenix Players, subsequently adapted by Corney Mabaso.
The play has had a number of titles over the years: originally created as Isintu by Cocky Thlothlalamaje and the Phoenix Players, the name was changed to Meropa for the tour through Japan. On their return, the show was enlarged and restaged as Meropa, the Drums of Africa by Brickhill-Burke as to re-open the refurbished His Majesty’s Theatre in Johannesburg in 1974. The piece was at one time also renamed to KwaZulu for its season in London.
Performance history in South Africa
1974: Meropa, the Drums of Africa presented by Joan Brickhill and Louis Burke. Claimed to have been conceived, devised and designed by Clarence Wilson in the programme, the piece was directed by Joan Brickhill, Louis Burke and Clarence Wilson. Choreography by Josh Makhene and Joan Brickhill. Assistant Director: Josh Makhene. Lighting designed by Louis Burke.
Sources
Theatre programme (Phoenix Players production) held by NELM: [Collection: MARKET THEATRE]: 2014. 7. 362.
Theatre programme (1974 production) held by NELM: [Collection: KORT, Maurice]: 2012. 379. 21. 47.
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