Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts & Entertainment Hub
KHAYA Arts has taken a daring leap into the past by resurrecting one of Africa’s most iconic musical plays, Iphi Ntombi, and giving it a fresh spin at the Bulawayo Arts Festival (BAF).
The celebrated ensemble has embraced the towering legacy of South African theatre legends Bertha Egnos Godfrey and her daughter Gail Lakier, who wrote the original piece in 1974. The production tells the gripping tale of a young black man who leaves his rural home and young wife to work in the Johannesburg mines. It is being revived in honour of its 51st anniversary.
For three nights only, from 5 to 7 June, Khaya Arts brings the reimagined version to life at the Bulawayo Theatre at 6PM, blending tradition with a modern twist.
Infused with Imbube, Maskandi, Marabi, Jazz, traditional dance and the unmistakable gumboot rhythms, the play retains its African soul while embracing bold new interpretations.
Future Dube, director of Khaya Arts, described the project as one of the group’s most challenging undertakings.
“We were stepping into the shoes of giants,” he said. “This is not just a play. It is a legacy. A production that made waves on Broadway and flew the African flag high. Reimagining it was not a walk in the park. We had to be brave and precise.”
Khaya Arts tweaked scenes and choreography to match their available props and local talent. From costume designers to welders and makeup artists, the team worked tirelessly to deliver a stunning show.
“We had to modernise parts of it, but the heart of Iphi Ntombi remains. The struggle, the love, the journey, it is all there,” said Dube.
The crowd will be treated to hits like Iphi Ntombi, The Digger, Imyeneni, The Warrior and more, in what promises to be a theatrical feast.
After Bulawayo, Khaya Arts plans to take the show on the road, with Harare next in line.
“This is a not-to-be-missed production. It is not just entertainment, it is a cultural celebration,” added Dube.
