WeeklySA_AdminJOURNEY: For the first time in 35 years, members of the original Sarafina! cast will share the stage again as part of the Market Theatre’s landmark 50th anniversary celebrations, paying tribute to one of South Africa’s most influential theatrical productions…
By Priscilla Malinga
The original cast of the acclaimed musical Sarafina! will reunite for a special commemorative performance during the Market Theatre’s 50th anniversary celebrations later this month.
The reunion forms part of “Let’s Meet at The Market Theatre”, a unique theatrical experience taking place from June 19 to 21. The production will take audiences on a celebratory journey through the history, people, productions and stories that have shaped the iconic Johannesburg theatre over the past five decades.
Audiences will be guided through significant moments that reflect the theatre’s artistic legacy, cultural impact and enduring contribution to South African society. Recognising the profound connection between Sarafina! and the Market Theatre’s history, organisers have invited the original cast to present a special 56-minute performance as part of the immersive experience.
The reunion is particularly significant as the original cast members last performed together in 1991.
Created by the late acclaimed playwright and producer Mbongeni Ngema, Sarafina! premiered at the Market Theatre in 1987 before achieving extraordinary international success. The musical became a global cultural phenomenon, shining a spotlight on the experiences, struggles and resilience of South African youth during apartheid.
Nhlanhla Ngema, younger brother of the late Mbongeni Ngema and one of the original cast members, described the reunion as both emotional and meaningful. “Returning to the Market Theatre with my fellow cast members is both emotional and deeply meaningful,” he said.
“Sarafina! is more than a production; it is a movement that gave a voice to a generation and showcased the resilience, courage and talent of South Africans to the world.”
The original cast members participating in the anniversary celebration include Baby Cele, Ntombikhona Dlamini, Lindiwe Dlamini, Sboniso Khumalo, Thandekile Mqadi, Kipizane Skweyiya, Nandi Ndlovu, Linda Mtolo, Lindiwe Hlengwa, Zandile Hlengwa, Dumisani Dlamini, Pat Mlaba, Nhlanhla Ngema, Congo Hadebe, Nkosingiphile Sithole and Mpume Shelembe. “Their participation offers audiences a rare opportunity to witness a living piece of South African theatre history and celebrate the artists who helped shape one of the country’s most iconic productions,” said Ngema.
The Market Theatre’s 50th anniversary celebrations are expected to honour the institution’s remarkable journey while looking ahead to its future as a leading force in South African and global theatre.
