UZULU NOQWABE

uZulu noQwabe is an insightful exploration into the issues of abeNguni identity and history. It promises to light up the stage of the Playhouse Loft in a multimedia dance extravaganza between May 25 and 26. As a second part of a trilogy, the work is packed with elaborately choreographed dance routines. The end result is nothing less than a well-crafted and captivating multimedia dance piece.

uZulu noQwabe forms part of the New Stages line-up funded and hosted by The Playhouse Company. New Stages is about showcasing South African productions that are creative, original and artistically thought-provoking.

The first part of the trilogy, Dayimane, focused on the role played by Nguni cows in the historical and contemporary socio-political identity of the Nguni people. In addition, Dayimane was intended to be an introduction to the possible cause of separation between Malandela’s sons: Zulu and Qwabe. Malandela is the ancestral father of AmaNguni or AbeNguni.

uZulu noQwabe further probes the contentious debate surrounding the rightful owner of Malandela’s cattle after his death. The piece is an interesting look into the complex and various calamities that befell amaNguni as a result of the feud between the sons of Malandela. However, the genius choreography by Musa Hlatshwayo provides a simplified view of AmaNguni history and kinship dynamics.

Musa Hlatshwayo is this year's recipient of the 2011 KZN DanceLink Choreographer of the Year Award, presented last night at a performance of Imbumba at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre.

uZulu noQwabe has two performances in the Playhouse Loft - May 25 at 19h30 and May 26 at 14h00. Tickets R65. Bookings through The Playhouse Box Office on 031 369 9540/ 9596 or at Computicket on 083 915 8000 or online at www.computicket.com The Royal and Albany Hotels will provide parking at discounted rates.