Mbongeni Ngema Live! Stimela saseZola

Mbongeni Ngema Live! Stimela saseZola is a theatre presentation by Mbongeni Ngema (1955-2023).

Also referred to simply as Mbongeni Ngema Live! or Stimela saseZola in some sources.

The original text

Based on one of Ngema's most iconic songs, this is a dance programme, described by the critic as "not a full-blown theatre piece, but rather a musical postcard from the past", a staged concert which uses rapid costume changes and narrative links by Leleti Khumalo, to provide a nostalgic stroll down memory lane. In the process the production dealt with South African politics and history and personal issues.

The dances performed (largely by graduates of the Mbongeni Ngema Academy and some guest stars), consisted of excerpts from like Sarafina! and The Zulu.

Translations and adaptations

Performance history in South Africa

2003: Performed at the Market Theatre, directed and performed by Mbongeni Ngema with Leleti Khumalo, Brown Mkhize, Black Moses Ngwenya, Dieketseng Mnisi, Zolile Bacela, Barney Bophela, Fikile Dladla, Sandile Dlamini, Mazwakhe Gumede, Thembi Hleza, Adam Howard, Fikile Khuzwayo, Simphiwe Madela, George Magxola, Vusi Mahlanze, Sam Mako, Solí Majola, Muzi Maseko, Fikile Masoka, Musa Mavundla, Philile Mbuthu, Lawrence Mbeka, Thembani Mgabhi, Pat Mlaba, Zodwa Mphanza, Kenneth Mshwana, Dumisile Mtshali, Mbongeni Mvelasi, Thabile Mzobe, Sabelo Ngema, Bez Roberts, Butana Sedile, Cindy Sokhela.

Sources

Ruphin Coudyzer. 2023. Annotated list of his photographs of Market Theatre productions. (Provided by Coudyzer)

Review: "Mbongeni Ngema Live! Stimela saseZola", IOL Entertainment, 16 July, 2003https://www.iol.co.za/entertainment/whats-on/mbongeni-ngema-live-stimela-sasezola-898274

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