Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, [email protected]
AN ambitious new musical celebrating the life, military achievements and political struggles of King Mzilikazi is moving from vision to reality, with a soft launch for auditions and rehearsals set for the Bulawayo Club today.
Titled “Mzilikazi: The General Who Defied Shaka”, the production is an epic two-part musical that aims to bring one of southern Africa’s most influential historical figures to life through drama, music, dance and oral storytelling.
The event, hosted by veteran broadcaster and media personality Lenox Mhlanga, will run from 6pm to 8pm and is expected to attract between 150 and 200 guests. It will officially kick-start the audition and rehearsal process for the production.
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Bulawayo, Honourable Judith Ncube, will be the guest of honour, while Bulawayo Mayor Councillor David Coltart will host the event.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Nicholas Moyo is also expected to address attendees.
Executive producer Albert Nyathi will present the vision behind the musical, while chief writer Thabani Moyo will provide insights into the story that inspired the production. Music director
Themba Ndlovu is expected to outline the role music will play in bringing the epic tale to life.
The programme will also feature remarks from Prince Leo Khumalo on behalf of the Khumalo clan, as well as Chief Mtshana Khumalo, president of the National Council of Chiefs.
Chief writer Thabani Hillary Moyo said preparations were in place for the launch.
“Plans to bring this production to fruition were always there for many years, and it is with great honour to finally be in a position to say, we’ll be taking our first major step on Friday, as we’ll be launching the production to relevant stakeholders.
“We’re looking forward to hosting close to 200 people, whom we believe are relevant in helping us shape this story and make it a success,” said Moyo.
He said the musical explores Mzilikazi’s journey from an orphaned young man to a feared military commander and the founder of the Ndebele nation.
Part One, titled “The Making of a Rebel King”, begins with the trauma Mzilikazi experienced following the execution of his father, Mashobane. It traces his rise through the ranks under Zulu King
Shaka and examines the events that shaped him into a leader in his own right.
According to the storyline, Mzilikazi’s decision to keep cattle collected as tribute from the Sotho king Renisi eventually places him on a collision course with Shaka. His subsequent humiliation of a
Zulu envoy becomes an open declaration of rebellion, triggering a dramatic struggle between two of the era’s most formidable military leaders.
The story follows Mzilikazi and his followers as they journey westwards, establishing a new political and military force. Along the way, they encounter rival African communities, missionaries and increasingly hostile Boer settlers.
Prominent missionary Robert Moffat features in the production as a key figure who encounters Mzilikazi and attempts to navigate the tensions between the Ndebele king and neighbouring communities.
The second instalment, “The Crown and the Schism”, centres on succession battles and internal divisions within the kingdom. Believed dead after disappearing into the wilderness, Mzilikazi’s absence leads to the crowning of his son Nkulumane at Gibixhegu.
However, Mzilikazi’s unexpected return sparks a political crisis that raises questions about loyalty, legitimacy and authority. The drama reaches its climax through a royal tribunal and the destruction of the faction responsible for installing Nkulumane as king.
The production also recognises that some aspects of Mzilikazi’s story remain subjects of historical debate, including questions surrounding his parentage and the eventual fate of Nkulumane.
Moyo said these differing historical accounts would form part of a broader exploration of themes such as power, identity, leadership, betrayal and nation-building.
He added that guests would have an opportunity to network and enjoy refreshments after the formal proceedings.
“The evening is expected to mark the beginning of a significant theatrical undertaking aimed at placing Mzilikazi’s story firmly within Zimbabwe’s cultural and performing-arts landscape.
“Therefore, we’re calling on prospective performers and creative practitioners to take part in the upcoming auditions and rehearsals as the production moves towards the stage,” he said.
If successful, the production promises to shine a fresh spotlight on one of the most significant figures in southern African history while celebrating Zimbabwe’s rich storytelling and performing arts traditions.
