(Review by Sifiso Simamane)I attended the packed house opening of Nawe Mbopha ka Sithayi, written by Lindinkosi B Mbatha and directed by Siza KaMnisi Mthembu. Presented by the Department of Drama & Production Studies at the Durban University of Technology, it dealt with the life and death of King Shaka Zulu.
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 show was good with some great performances and the set was excellent. As the audience entered, the actors were already on stage, frozen in motion so convincingly that many people thought they were stage props – made even more realistic because of the lighting.
Thandanani Qwabe who played Shaka ka Senzangakhona was commanding and very comfortable in his character, his deep voice giving a sense of control like a true leader. Mayenziwe Zuma who played Mkabayi ka Jama was also excellent, showing how cruel and evil her character was and she well deserved her standing ovation.
Other characters put an element of comedy in the drama and these included Popi Qwabe and Yonela Mlonyeni who both played Mlozi.Sangomas, both very convincing in their roles and they also danced well. All cast members showed great growth potential. Compliments also to composer Aphiwe Namba and choreographer Mdu Mtshali.
I was a little concerned about the title of the work. I thought the writer would talk more about Mbopha ka Sithayi and take us through the events that made him change his mind and betray Shaka. Instead, the focus was more with Dingane and Mkabayi.
While the costumes were perfect, the music and dance requires more energy because this is a traditional piece and with the Zulu nation, whenever they chant or dance they always have higih-powered energy.
Nawe Mbopha KaSithayi runs in the Courtyard Theatre at DUT until May 4 at 19h00. Tickets R20 available at the door. More information from Lebohang Sibisi on 031 373 2194. - Sifiso Simamane
(NB: The production is in IsiZulu)
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