DUT Drama Studies presents Elliot Zondi’s double-bill production. Insumansumane (An Unbelievable Story)
and Ukufa kukaShaka (The Death of
King Shaka Zulu). The production will run at DUT’s Courtyard Theatre from May 14
to 18, 2018.
The production features 65 second-year students headed by Mzamo Cele as
Shaka, Angel Dlamini as Mkabayi, Sphamandla Gazu as Mbopha in Ukufa kukaShaka. While in the other show,
Insumansumane, Thokozani Ngcongo
takes the leading role as Mbambada, Simphiwe Msomi as Magwababa and introducing
Seani Tshisikhawe as uMlungu (a British colonist). Both shows are directed by
DUT Drama Studies lecturer Siza kaMnisi Mthembu with music composition by
Celestia Mpanza and choreography by Mdu Mtshali.
Insumansumane (An unbelievable story)
Elliot Zondi showed sharp powers of judgment through his powerful
historical drama titled Insumansumane
(an unbelievable story), because he wanted to highlight the depth of the
misunderstanding between the Natal Colonial Government (represented by the
Commissioner for Native Affairs, Ndabazabantu) and the black African population
(represented by chief Bhambada Zondi kaMncinza from the Greytown area) that led
to the insane armed rebellion of 1906. The show contains two main aspects: the
imposition of power and taxation, a heavy burden for which the Zulus had
understanding on, and the steady and arrogant interference of Western culture
that threatened the survival of the Zulu sense of identity. In Insumansumane, disrespect of people,
culture and lack of consultation are some of the major issues. The Colonial
Army attacked and destroyed the Zulu villages and chief Bhambada declared a
rebellion and attacked the British army.
Ukufa kukaShaka (The Death of Shaka)
The tragic undertones in Elliot Zondi’s drama Ukufa kukaShaka “The Death of King Shaka Zulu –1960. Zondi’s view
point and his perspective of assassination of Shaka were deeply influenced by
the South African apartheid era. The tragic hero’s fall was caused by his own
over-confidence. Shaka believed he was the chosen one by the ancestors to rule
over the Zulu nation. This belief made him forget that he was human, which
resulted in him making numerous miscalculations and led to his doom of death.
The production will run at DUT’s Courtyard Theatre from May 14 to 18,
2018, at 18h00. Tickets R50 (R20 for students with current student cards) For
bookings contact Lebohang Sibisi on 031 373 2194 or email: lebohangs@dut.ac.za
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