DEATH OF THABANI NGUBANE

Director Themi Venturas writes of the sad death of long-time colleague and friend.

“It is with a great deal of sadness that we announce the passing of one of Durban's performing arts community, Thabani 'Lucky' Ngubane.”

Thabani first burst onto the scene as one of the original members of the KWASA internship programme in 1991 under the tutelage of Themi Venturas.

“He was one of the top graduates and penned the 'legendary' poem "You have given me the rod with which to fish" which was read at that first ever graduation ceremony officiated by Wally Serote,” Themi continues.

Thabani created the role of Zakes in the premiere of Themi Venturas' and the KWASA group's musical Taxi Jam.

“Thabani then freelanced for a while until the end of 1993 when he joined Themi Venturas Productions as its technical manager and soon became well loved by all the performers and technicians with whom he worked,” explains Themi. “In 2000/2001 he ventured off on his own to establish Ingonyama Productions. As head of his own company he created employment for many young technicians throughout the KZN region and received a Judges Award from the Durban Theatre Awards for his ongoing behind the scenes contribution to the Performing Arts Industry. Thabani is survived by his children and his ex-wife Nothando.

The performing arts sector mourns the passing of Thabani and celebrates his memory.

“A memorial celebration of Thabani's life will be held at the Catalina Theatre on March 2 at 17h00. Thabani Ngubane was a loved and dear friend of the Performing Arts. Let's give him the send-off he deserves,” adds Themi Venturas. “Anyone wishing to share a recollection or sing a song or just pay tribute should let me know by email at t74@mweb.co.za or on 082 554 8334 so that they can be included in the event."