DUT 2024 INSUMANSUMANE & UKUFA KUKASHAKA INVITATION
Date/Time
Date(s) – Mon – 14 May – Fri – 18 May
6:00 pm
Categories
- General
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 14 to 18 May 2024 at 18:00.
The production features 65 2nd year students headed by Mzamo Cele as Shaka, Angel Dlamini as Mkabayi, Sphamandla Gazu as Mbopha on Ukufa kukaShaka. While on 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.
About the Shows:
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 heroes fall was caused by his own overconfidence. Shaka believed he was the chosen one by the ancestors to rule over the Zulu Nation. This belief made him forget that he is human, which resulted in him making numerous miscalculations and lead to his doom of death.
Ticket prices are R50 for adults and R20 for students with current student cards.
For bookings please contact Mrs Lebohang Sibisi on 031 373 2194 or alternatively lebohangs@dut.ac.za