Nongqawuse story told in musical

A musical production retelling the impact of the prophecy of Nongqawuse will be staged from Thursday February 16 to Saturday February 18 at Chris Hani Arts and Culture High School in Khayelitsha.

Izikhalo zika Nongqawuse The Musical is composed by Bongani Magatyana and goes back 166 years to when Nongqawuse’s prophecy emerged.

He said the specific narrative of the show depicts different trials in the aftermath of the prophecy.

“The Black South African contemporary events are challenges that the amaXhosa people are facing after losing their cattle during the era of the cattle-killing movement from 1856 to 1857. The musical composition displays African folk story style of singing that will transport the audience into the different emotions,” Magatyana said.

The backdrop of this story is still significant among the black community of South Africa, and it can be interpreted in various forms due to its relevance to the modern anthropological climate of the country.

Magatyana is working with director Mhlanguli George and choreographer Lungelo Ngamlana and the cast is composed of local choristers and dancers including Luvo Tamba, Masakhane Sotayisi, Thandokazi Fumba, Ntuthu Nyiki,Ntuthu Kuta, Thabita Khoncwana, Sindiswa Sityata, Thozama Mdliva, Asemahle Ngxongxela, Sesethu Mhlambiso, Ongezwa Mahlathi, Lonwabo Mose, Siya Kawana, Xolani Momo, Andile Solani, Sandi Kala and Sandile Rafeni.

In the band are Khangelani Twani on keyboard, Godfrey Dyantyi on bass guitar, Jerome Stengile on drums, Mpumi Mnyama on saxophone and Thulani Mkhatshane on marimba and percussions.

The programme is funded by the National Arts Council (NAC) and Department of Sport, Arts and Culture.

All the shows start at 4pm and tickets cost R50. Book through Quicket.