BAFAZILAND LAUNCH A SUCCESS
Howick author, actor and playwright, Makhubalo Ikaneng, debuted his new production, Bafaziland - The Musical, at the Jambo Art Centre in Pietermaritzburg on Saturday, April 20.
It was the high point of a new series of events, short stories, musical and products under the Bafaziland brand, which carries the motto: ‘An uplifting experience kumnandi kunjena’.
Based on Ikaneng’s short story,
Bafaziland - The Musical, takes audiences on a journey of resilience, empowerment, and hope. It is also a vibrant celebration of the human spirit set against the backdrop of a squatter camp, where the echoes of struggle and triumph reverberate through every note and movement.
“Bafaziland - The Musical is more than just a musical — it’s a call to action, a celebration of the human spirit, and a testament to the power of storytelling to inspire positive change,” says Ikaneng.
“With its universal themes and captivating presentation, we aim to connect with audiences of all ages and backgrounds, fostering dialogue, empathy, and a renewed sense of purpose within communities near and far.
“Bafaziland - The Musical is an uplifting experience. I believe in the power of stage musicals because they offer us fun, excitement, and freedom away from our daily stress.”
The cast includes Mxolisi Ngcobo, Andiswa Gebashe, Mongezi Masango, Mpilwenhle Zondi, Malibongwe Ndlovu, and Mawande
Likeno, all of whom are based in the umngungundlovu district.
Ikaneng said the launch aimed to show how Bafaziland had grown as a concept from a short story and musical into events and products representing and based on the themes, activities, and characters of the musical and short story.
As audiences entered the theatre corner, they were met by a display of products, including the short story booklet, aprons, and bags.
“All these products aim to allow audiences and supporters to own a piece of Bafaziland while contributing to our efforts to be sustainable,” said Ikaneng, who added that the new 45-seater space at the Jambo Art Centre should be accessible to the public for regular live performances.
Ikaneng constructed the corner with the assistance of the centre’s crew and the cast and he hopes more shows will be staged there to deepen the appreciation of theatre in Pietermaritzburg.
“The seed has been planted. Thank you, Cuba Makhubalo, for choosing Jambo Art Centre for this and building this new vision, aligning with the long-standing dream of rebuilding and reshaping this art space in the station area node. Great things are still to come. #bafaziland,” said Mbuso Madondo, one of the leaders of the Jambo Art Centre.
The audience, meanwhile, responded very positively, joining in the dancing and singing one of the songs at the end of the performance.
“What a fabulous, joyful, energetic performance... such a great afternoon,” said Michele Jonsson after watching Bafaziland - The Musical.
Phillipa Cameron, who brought young kids and her family members to the show, said: “Thank you, Cuba Ikaneng, for the opportunity to give back, to smile and move with youngsters obviously loving your direction, watch our own farm kids absorb every second of the adventure into town and of course a reason to park at 31 Railway Street - Jambo Art Centre.”
The show was also a platform for Mondli Shange to experience and take part in the creation of a theatre musical. After the show, he thanked Ikaneng for his mentorship, adding: “I am deeply grateful for it. I’ve learned a lot from you during this short time we’ve spent together, and I’ve seen things I never thought I would see. Today, I see the people appreciating the theatre in this way, and for that, I thank you, leader.”
Those wanting to book the show for events, workplaces, schools, and festivals can email makhubaloza@gmail.com or like the Facebook page: bafaziland.
Those his missed the debut performance, can catch Welcome to Bafaziland at the Nelson Mandela Capture Site at 3pm on Saturday, April 27. After the show there will be a special Q&A session and products will be available for sale. Tickets are available at Pick n Pay or through Webtickets.