Nandi the Musical, an international production honoring the life of Princess Nandi of Elangeni, is poised to captivate audiences at the Soweto Theatre from January 25 to 28, 2024. This enthralling musical, centered around the principles of gender equality with responsibility, narrates the inspiring story of Princess Nandi’s unwavering commitment, courage, and decisive leadership.
In a narrative highlighting the remarkable journey of Princess Nandi during her “exile,” the musical portrays her steadfast devotion to raising her son, Shaka, with love, discipline, and obedience. The depiction of finding a suitable mentor in iNkosi Dingiswayo adds depth to the narrative, showcasing the challenges and triumphs faced by Princess Nandi as the first African woman well-known as a single parent.
About the Musical:
Nandi the Musical is a tale of hope and determination, showcasing the life of a woman who defied the odds and rose to a position of power in all of Zululand. Despite doubts about her abilities as an orphaned princess, Princess Nandi emerged as a symbol of hard work, patience, and resilience. Recognized as one of the top ten greatest queens of Africa and among the top 100 worldwide, Queen Nandi’s story serves as an inspiration for young women in Africa and beyond.
The Cast and Staging:
The musical features a talented cast of 28 professional performers, predominantly females, accompanied by a six-piece band. Ms. Ntokozo Ngcobo, acclaimed for her role as the Queen in Ifalakhe, takes on the lead role as Nandi, while the narration is skillfully delivered by the voice of Dr. Gcina Mhlophe for Old Nandi. Also featured in the musical is the scintillating and talented singer Zawadi Yamungu (Nkosingiphile Mpanza), as well as the vivacious dancer-actress Velile Makhoba. Nontokozo Mkhize completes the list of greatly talented singers in the production.
Having initially launched in July 2018 at The Playhouse Theatre as part of Pan African Women Day celebrations, Nandi the Musical has garnered acclaim through various performances in KZN Districts, including a staging at the Ekhaya Multi Arts Centre in November 2019. The production had plans for an international tour in New Orleans in July 2020, which unfortunately had to be canceled due to the Covid-19 pandemic. However, the musical successfully toured to PACOFS in September 2021, forging an association partnership.
Upcoming Staging:
Nandi the Musical is set to make a triumphant return to The Playhouse in March 2024 as part of celebrating International Women’s Day on March 8, promising audiences an unforgettable experience of hope, courage, and decisive leadership portrayed through the lens of a remarkable woman. Despite the challenges she faced, Princess Nandi triumphed when her son Shaka became a unifier of Nguni clans and a builder of the Zulu Kingdom.
The musical is written and directed by award-winning and internationally acclaimed artistic director, Edmund Mhlongo (also founder of K-CAP and Ekhaya Multi Arts Centre).
Don’t miss the chance to witness this inspiring tale of Princess Nandi’s journey at the Soweto Theatre from January 25 to 28, 2024. For tickets and more information, visit the [Soweto Theatre website].
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