(Ntonkozo
Ngcobo as Queen Nandi)
It is through a woman that we all live ... (Review
by Verne Rowin Munsamy)
The Phumelela Educational training Project,
under the artistic direction of Edmund Mhlongo presented Nandi The Musical at the Durban Playhouse. When I walked into the
theatre I was welcomed by the image of three kraal-shaped domes with the cast
and the band silhouetted on stage. The figure of Queen Nandi poised centre
stage, this was the beginning of an epic tale told tantalisingly by a youthful
cast.
I adored every bit of the show beginning
with the music played by live musicians. I thought that the underscoring was
sensitive and endearing to every moment. The choreography by Mle Khuzwayo is
subtle but very effective, it does not detract from the story which is very
well written. The tale is that of Queen Nandi, the mother of King Shaka. It is
reminiscent of the Queen’s strength, conviction, triumphs and tribulations and
how she succeeded in raising a great leader of the Zulu people.
The cast of almost 40 are focused and
formidable on the stage. While some of the roles were too aged for this cast they
still managed to create well-rounded and stylised characters. The chorus of
singers, under the direction of Sandile Mpungose, were outstanding in their
harmonies and solos. Even the living legend Gcina Mhlophe lends her voice to
the narration of story. On stage we were marvelled by Ntonkozo Ngcobo who is
firm in her portrayal of Queen Nandi. Ngcobo sets a high standard which the
rest of the cast find no trouble in achieving.
The set with its strappy design reminded me
of reeds which are often mentioned in the musical and I felt that this was a
good aesthetic for the play. The stark lighting worked wondrously against the
black on the set. The costumes were authentic as was the atmosphere on stage.
This was a successful musical albeit a little too long. - Verne Rowin Munsamy
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