Langalakhe Mabena, [email protected]
ARTISTeS from some of Bulawayo’s prominent arts ensembles turned Maunga, near Emakhandeni terminus, into a stage of mourning and remembrance as they sang and dance in tribute to Ishmael “Litshe” Muvungi at a memorial show held earlier this week.
Two years after his death, Monday’s memorial felt like a fitting tribute to a man whose life was dedicated to the arts. Litshe died on September 22, 2024, at the age of 48.
Led by his beloved ensemble, the multi-award-winning Umkhathi Theatre Works, the event brought together family members, friends and artistes who celebrated Litshe’s contribution to the creative sector through dance, music, poetry and theatre.
Among the groups that performed in his honour were Iyasa, Khaya Arts, Ezimnyama, Jabulani Arts and Hwabaraty, Siyaya, among many pther groups.
The memorial was also graced by Minister of State for Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Judith Ncube.
Umkhathi Theatre Works director Matesu Dube said the group continued to feel Litshe’s absence, particularly during rehearsals and performances, where he had played leading roles.
“Two years gone by without Litshe, life has not been the same at Umkhathi during rehearsals and shows. We miss his ideas, his creativity and contribution at Umkhathi.
“He played lead characters in most of our productions, and it has been difficult to replace him in those roles. It is not that the other actors are bad, but Ishmael set a high standard through his performances,” he said.
Dube expressed gratitude to Minister Ncube, the participating groups, artistes and other stakeholders for supporting the memorial, which was held in the suburb where Litshe grew up.
Iyasa founder Innocent Nkululeko Dube described Litshe as a versatile performer who excelled as an actor, dancer, singer and director.
He said Litshe’s willingness to support fellow creatives and share his knowledge made him a respected figure in the arts community.
“It was an honour to be among the people who celebrated Litshe’s life. One thing about him is that he was everyone’s brother in need. He stood up for many people. It was therefore necessary for us as Iyasa to be part of this because he also supported people during his lifetime,” he said.
Dube added that Litshe often visited Iyasa rehearsals, offering constructive criticism and sharing ideas that helped other artistes improve their work.
Khaya Arts founder Fortune Dube said participating in the memorial was a way of acknowledging the support Litshe had given the group and other creatives during his lifetime.
He described the late artiste as a big brother who inspired many in the creative sector.
“As Khaya Arts, we once did a production together with Litshe, even though it was for a small event. However, that short time was out of this world, as we enjoyed working with him. Litshe inspired a lot of artistes, and many looked up to him. He helped a lot of people, and that is what made him special,” he said.
One of the most emotional moments at the event came when Litshe’s mother joined Jabulani Arts for a performance of “Zvamaronga.” She was accompanied by family members, including his two children, in a moving tribute to his life and legacy.
He began his artistic journey in 1994 as a member of Sadalala Amajekete, a township theatre group based in Njube, before joining Umkhathi Theatre Works. He toured Scotland with the group in 2004.
In 2006, he joined Siyaya, spending nine years touring Europe and Asia before rejoining Umkhathi around 2012.
Litshe later founded A Band with No Name in 2016 to pursue his passion for music before embarking on a solo career.
His accolades included National Arts Merit Awards won with Umkhathi Theatre Works. His portrayal of King Lobengula in the group’s production Ihloka also earned him the Best Actor award at the Bulawayo Arts Awards.
