Apartheid musical makes long-awaited return

Known as the 'Father of Black Theatre' in South Africa, Kente is credited for producing Brenda Fassie and is one the first writers to deal with life in townships.

How Long? was written following activist movement Black Consciousness’ request for cultural works to reflect the conditions of the oppressed black majority during apartheid. The musical is about Khulu, a grandmother who dies as a result of brutal action at the hands of the state police. The play was last staged  in 1973 and banned by the government in that year.

“It is fitting, as we salute Africa Month, that we honour the memory of Gibson Kente, one of the formative figures of South Africa’s theatre scene,” Play House Company CEO and artistic director Linda Bukhosini said. “We at The Playhouse Company are proud to have assembled some of the best artists in our country.”

How Long? will feature a six-piece band and a 13-piece orchestra commissioned by The Playhouse. This, Bukhosini said, highlights the importance of encouraging a positive narrative of common artistic experiences among people of different racial groups.

Directed by Duma Ndlovu and choreographed by Somizi Mhlongo, the musical will star veteran actor Thembi Mtshali, Phindile Gwala, Khaya Dladla, Mondli Makhoba and Nqobile Ndlovu.

Duma Ndlovu said he was honoured to be part of the musical. “As the custodian of the Gibson Kente Foundation, it is my honour to keep Bab' Kente’s legacy alive, and I am excited to be directing this masterpiece."

“Before he died in 2002, Gibson Kente entrusted me with the responsibility of representing his music. To this end, in 2004 I was instrumental in the Gibson Kente Foundation coming into being,” Ndlovu said.