The Soweto theatre opened its curtains to the revived old school musical, Sarafina last Friday 5th July 2013. This familiar production which was performed by the Tshwane University of Technology students has come back in new style with a fitting new name Sarafina In Black And White. It revisits the old Sarafina, with the same characters but with a multi-racial cast. It was the very first time that this musical production was showing on the Soweto grounds. It came out in just the right time when a lot of young people have lost interest in the original Sarafina.
This production forces you to remember why the 1976 June 16 uprising took place, why people should be proud of their mothers and grandmothers who were alive and active during those times. It doesn’t only tell the forgotten and looked-over truth but it also shows just how much we should rise above the struggles and love one another as fellow Africans. And what is Sarafina without Stimela Sase Zola? The character oozes so much energy and brings another element to the storyline. The musical production was directed by Mr. Josias Molele, produced by Dr. Vusabantu Ngema from Tshwane University of Technology who is said to be very closely related to the producer and playwright of the original Sarafina musical Mr. Mbongeni Ngema. One of the choreographers includes Mr Mfana Jones Hlophe who starred in the original Sarafina musical which was created in 1987.
It was a chilly evening but the show was sure to keep us warm and entertained. One of my favourite characters were ‘Mistress It’s A Pity’ played by the talented Tshepiso Leta. The role was originally played by the legendary Whoopi Goldberg who was a high school teacher in the original play. The talented Tshepiso (22) plays the role so beautifully and with so much humour. Sarafina In Black And White touched a lot of hearts in its opening night, however a lot comments came out from dissatisfied viewers who wondered why the ‘White’ Sarafina? This production will be running until the 14 July 2013. Tickets can be bought at Computicket or at the doors of Soweto theatre
