NAWE MBOPHA KASITHAYI

The Department of Drama & Production Studies at the Durban University of Technology is to present Nawe Mbopha KaSithayi, a journey of the life and death of King Shaka Zulu.

Written by Lindinkosi Mbatha, the production is directed by DUT Drama Studies lecturer Siza kaMnisi Mthembu who has also directed Boesman and Lena, Sophiatown, Woza Albert! and more.

Nawe Mbopha KaSithayi is based on the assassination of King Shaka Zulu by Mbopha who was persuaded by Mkabayi kaJama, King Shaka’s aunt, who persuaded Senzangakhona’s children to kill the great Zulu king and conqueror in order for Dingane to be put on to the throne.

The production features dance choreographed by DUT Dance Lecturer Mdu Mtshali, who recently put DUT on the map at the Dance Umbrella 2012 with his production Imbokodo. Music is composed by DUT second year Drama student Aphiwe Namba.

Mayenziwe Zuma plays the main character Mkabayi ka Jama with Aphiwe Namba as Mbopha and Thandanani Qwabe as King Shaka Zulu. Sifanele Mnikakathi plays Dingane while Mpilo Khumalo plays Mhlangani who masterminded the assassination.

Nawe Mbopha KaSithayi runs in the Courtyard Theatre at DUT from May 1 to 4 at 19h00. Tickets R20 available at the door. More information from Lebohang Sibisi on 031 373 2194.

(NB: The production is in IsiZulu)