(Mthokozisi Zulu &
Wiseman Ncube appear in the lead roles)
A fine accomplishment for
the Mzansi Arts Development Ensemble in its debut production. (Review by Keith
Millar)
Mashu: The Musical, which is coming to the
end of its run in the Playhouse Opera is a vibrant, energetic, colourful and
somewhat harrowing tale set in the Township of Kwa Mashu in the mid-1990’s. It
features two of Durban’s most talented young actors - Mthokozisi Zulu and
Wiseman Mncube. They put in impressive performances as brothers who are caught
up in the township violence which was prevalent at that time.
Based on true events, the
story is about the residents of L section of the Township and the effect gang violence
had on their lives. It tells of a community fractured and a family shattered as
two brothers face off against each other amidst the bloodshed and hostility
wrought on the area by the gangs.
It also gives a strong message
of reconciliation, compromise and hope for all people to take into the future.
The musical was written,
composed, choreographed and co-directed by a new young playwright, Lucky Cele,
who is a resident of Kwa Mashu. The production is a credit to his determination
to tell the story of his people and neighbourhood as well as the tribulations
they have suffered.
Backed by an excellent seven
piece band, the music in the show is unique and memorable. Several genres are
evident including Maskandi, Mbhaganga, Gospel and Pop. The dancing is high
energy and exciting and beautifully choreographed.
Cele was mentored by the
production’s designer and director, theatre veteran Themi Venturas whose
experience, flair and style is apparent throughout the piece.
In fact, the production is
an absolute triumph for theatre technology. Lighting design by Mathew Broderick
was wonderfully atmospheric. Creating distinctive moods and feels for the
various scenes. Megan Levy’s sound
design and engineering was excellent - perfectly balanced and audible
throughout, no mean feat for a cast of
30 and a seven-piece band. The wonderfully innovative sets were built by James
Alberts and painted by Greg King in his own inimitable style.
With this wonderful
foundation, the cast could not help but excel – and this they certainly did.
Other than by Mthokozisi Zulu and Wiseman Mncube in their lead roles, there
were also standout performances by Samukele Mkhize as Dudu Cele, their mother; Samkelisiwe
Hlope as her friend Molly, and the two Pastors, Ayanda Hlongwa and Nduzi
Nombela.
The production runs for
about two and a half hours and is bi-lingual with dialogue in both Zulu and
English.
Mashu: The Musical is the debut
production, and a fine accomplishment, for the Mzansi Arts Development
Ensemble. What a way to start! One can only look forward to what is to
follow. This musical was sponsored by
the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund and the Office of the Premier
(Heritage Chief Directorate).
There is one more
performances of this production this afternoon (March 22) at 15h30. Tickets at
R100 are available from Computicket. – Keith Millar
(Editor’s Note: I wasn’t able to attend the opening as I was away in
Johannesburg but managed to catch it last night and agree with everything Keith
Millar has said. A real triumph for MADE and congratulations to all! – Caroline
Smart)
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