A critically acclaimed play, Ukama, will be staged at the Rostrum Theatre on the Arts Campus from 3 to 8 June at 17:00 by the Department of Performing Arts at Tshwane University of Technology. Playwright and director Bongani Bennedict Masango’s play features a cast and crew featuring students studying Performing Arts across a range of disciplines. With the Rostrum Directors Festival in full swing, the play is sure to be a hit.
A rural area in Zimbabwe is the setting for Ukama, where people rarely dream beyond their comfort zones. Anaisha (17) aspires to attend university to further her studies and discover what she wants to do after her mother’s funeral.
TUT Lecturers Award-Winning Play Staged on Arts Campus
Anaisha’s sister Ruwadzano (32), who is married to Masimba (40), conjure up a sinister plan to deceive her for years after they fail to conceive. Conflicts involving tension can lead to all kinds of havoc.
With the use of dialogue, song, physical theatre, and narration, the story is presented in a rousing way using the effects of magical realism.
This Shona word roughly translates to being related by affinity, kindred, or affinity with someone.
Masango produced the work in collaboration with Savanna Trust, a Zimbabwean theatre organization. Originally performed in Bulawayo at the Arts Extra, the play was staged there for the first time.
With Ukama’s successful run in 2019, she received nominations for Outstanding Theatrical Production, Outstanding Actress, and Outstanding Actor National Arts Merit Awards. A performance of the play was also given at Makhanda’s National Arts Festival that year.
“Ukama is the kind of work that every family member should be exposed to,” Masango says.
- Please note the age restriction of 16 LVS.
- Tickets cost R50 and will be sold at the door.
- For inquiries, please call 012 382 6130.
For more information on the Tshwane University of Technology, please contact Phaphama Tshisikhawe, Corporate Affairs and Marketing.
Tel: +27 12 382 4711 Email: [email protected]