Mafojane in lead Sarafina! role

TSHEGOFATSO Mafojane plays the role of Sarafina in the play of the same name that opens tonight at the Joburg Theatre.

Her dream has always been to have her own microphone. As a professional dancer, she is used to playing a supporting role, but this time, the coin flip turned in her favour.

“I went to audition for a dancer’s role, but it’s always necessary to be able to sing, dance and act. I gave it my best shot, said a few lines and Dr Mbongeni Ngema liked it. He gave me a script to rehearse at home. I was so nervous I couldn’t sleep that night.”

After auditioning for Ngema, on the last day she was told she got the part.

Mafojane also worked with Ngema in the Asinamali movie last year.

“As a professional dancer, I have worked with many choreographers, and my main jobs are international, with a German company that I am working for at present. When I was younger I did some musicals here at home before moving to work overseas.”

The 35-year-old knew it was just a matter of time before she would be given a chance to become the lead character in a production.

“I’m a jack of all trades and never sleep on any opportunity. I’m just happy to be given a chance to have my own microphone; that’s the part I won’t forget about this role. I want my friends to finally see me. From here on, watch this space.”

Mafojane said the preparation for the production took just over a month and had allowed her to get all the technical elements correct for her role.

She said the audience at tonight’s show were in for a treat. “They can expect a fresh take. Sarafina! has been growing from generation to generation. But things evolve…”

Sarafina! is showing at the Joburg Theatre until Sunday June 24.