Arts pays its respects with songs
Tribute concert for first deputy minister of arts
The world of arts, dance and song has not been left behind in celebrating the colourful life of Struggle icon Winnie Madikizela-Mandela.
Yesterday, the Joburg Theatre exploded in a kaleidoscope of activities as the Cultural and Creative Industries Federation of South Africa (CCIFSA) held a memorial service in her honour.
What made it special was that Madikizela-Mandela was the first deputy minister of arts and culture in a democratic South Africa.
Hosted by television personality Thembisa Mdoda, who wore a black-and-white umbaco (Xhosa traditional dress), the memorial was opened by a moving performance from Zahara with the SABC choir and an all-female band.
It was a jovial and celebratory mood as artists such as Tsepo Tshola, Dr Tumi, Lira, Siphokazi, Cassper Nyovest and Langa Mavuso took to the stage.
The mood turned sombre when actresses Nomzamo Mbatha and Thuso Mbedu performed a play about MadikizelaMandela which was directed by CCIFSA founder Tony Kgoroge.
Mdoda told the audience: “Today we are wearing doeks on our heads in your honour, Mama. We are not crying because you left us. We are happy that you united us.”
Speakers described Madikizela-Mandela as a champion of feminism as she taught women to stand up for themselves.
A poem by Dr Precious MoloiMotsepe was read by representatives of the Motsepe Foundation.
Kgoroge said: “The idea was for us, as a sector throughout our disciplines, [that we] must come and celebrate.”
Another arts fraternity memorial will be held today at the Constitutional Court in Braamfontein.