Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, [email protected]
CITY of Bulawayo Mayor Senator David Coltart has thrown his weight behind the ambitious Mzilikazi: The Musical, describing the production as more than an artistic undertaking, but a potential catalyst for cultural tourism, job creation and the positioning of the City of Kings as a leading destination for heritage-driven tourism.
Speaking at the soft launch of 10 held at the Bulawayo Club on Friday, His Worship Senator Coltart said the production comes at a critical time for a city whose identity is deeply rooted in its history, culture and creative expression.
He said it was particularly fitting that the story of King Mzilikazi Khumalo, founder of the Ndebele nation, was being brought to life in Bulawayo, where the monarch’s legacy continues to influence the city’s language, traditions, cultural practices and collective identity.
For Coltart, the significance of the production, which is scheduled for release in September next year, extends far beyond the stage. He said Bulawayo’s rich cultural assets could become powerful drivers of tourism and economic development if they were strategically packaged and promoted as part of the city’s broader tourism offering.
The mayor said the city should no longer be viewed solely through the traditional lenses of industry and commerce, but also as a centre of artistic excellence, heritage and storytelling.
“Our city is not just a place of industry and commerce, it is the soul of our nation’s artistic expression,” he said, pointing to Bulawayo’s traditional music and dance, vibrant theatre scene, rich Ndebele heritage and fusion of cultures.
The event, hosted by veteran broadcaster and media personality Lenox Mhlanga, officially marked the start of the audition and rehearsal process for the production. Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Bulawayo, Honourable Judith Ncube, was the guest of honour. Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Mr Nicholas Moyo was represented by deputy director in the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Mr Isaiah Mpofu.
Executive producer Albert Nyathi presented the vision behind the musical, while chief writer Thabani Moyo offered insights into the story that inspired the production. Music director Themba
Ndlovu outlined the role that music will play in bringing the epic story to life.
The programme also featured remarks from Prince Leo Khumalo on behalf of the Khumalo clan, as well as Chief Mtshana Khumalo, president of the National Council of Chiefs, who was represented by Chief Dakamela.
At the heart of the musical is King Mzilikazi, whose historical legacy remains deeply significant to the Ndebele people and to Zimbabwe’s broader national history. Coltart said the monarch’s story should not be viewed merely as a historical account, but as an important part of contemporary identity.
“His story is not just a historical narrative; it is woven into our identity. It speaks to our resilience, our unity and our enduring spirit as a people,” he said.
The mayor believes this historical dimension gives the production considerable tourism potential, particularly at a time when destinations around the world are increasingly using storytelling and creative productions to deepen visitors’ understanding of their heritage and culture.
He drew comparisons with Shaka iLembe, the South African historical television drama that generated significant interest in the story of the Zulu monarch King Shaka and introduced audiences to historical figures, including Mzilikazi.
“We have seen how Shaka iLembe has created a hype even beyond South Africa’s borders. In that production, we are introduced to Mzilikazi and I believe your production has the capacity to create a narrative that will immortalise King Mzilikazi,” he said.
Coltart said the municipality recognised the economic potential of productions such as Mzilikazi: The Musical, particularly in creating opportunities across the creative and cultural value chain.
“As a municipality, we recognise that film productions are economic catalysts and enablers. You will create jobs for our artists, technicians, and creative entrepreneurs and, in turn, you will bring to the spotlight this historic city.”
Although the production is centred on theatre, his remarks underscore the broader economic value of stage and screen productions, which can stimulate local economies, create employment and increase visibility for the destinations where they are produced.
The mayor also pointed to the annual King Mzilikazi Memorial Day, which he said has evolved into a global commemoration, as evidence of the international interest that already exists around the historical figure. He said the musical could build on that foundation and attract audiences interested in Mzilikazi and Ndebele history.
However, Coltart stressed that the production should aspire to transcend Bulawayo and achieve national significance.
“My hope is that this is not just going to be a Bulawayo production, but a national project which validates memory studies,” he said.
Coltart also commended the Khumalo clan, traditional leaders and cultural custodians for their involvement, emphasising the importance of authenticity in portraying historical figures and events.
He specifically congratulated Imbongi Arts Promotion director Albert Nyathi for conceptualising the project and expressed hope that the final production would present an authentic portrayal of King Mzilikazi.
The production is scheduled to be launched in Bulawayo and Harare in September 2027, followed by a nationwide tour in 2028, a regional tour in 2029 and an international tour in 2030. Audition dates for the cast are expected to be announced soon.
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