Nkwali back on stage after 15years

Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub

CANADA-BASED multi-talented performer Nomathamsanqa “Nkwali” Mkhwananzi faced her fears and made a triumphant return to the theatre stage after 15 years. She was part of the cast of the play Through a Film Darkly, which ran at the Anvil Theatre in Canada from July 24 to 27.

Presented by the Akofena Afro-Theatre Society, the cast featured Nkwali as Rebecca, alongside Chisom Akomas as Fenyinka, Beth Culshaw as Janet, Ross Oteri as Addo, Fikky Bajela as Ofori, and Warren Agyare in the role of Adamu. Through a Film Darkly, written by Joe de Graft and directed by Stephen Yaw Oppong, is set in post-independence Ghana. The play explores themes of identity, belonging, and the enduring shadows of colonialism.

Speaking from her base in Canada, Nkwali described her return to theatre after 15 years as an incredible experience. She praised her fellow cast members for their professionalism and unwavering support throughout the production.

“It was an honour to return to the theatre stage. I’ve performed before, but this experience was different. I managed to face my fears because of the love and support from the amazing, crazy, and talented crew I worked with. I had a great experience and I’m thankful for every laugh, every late-night rehearsal, and every magical moment on stage.

“Sharing this journey with them has been nothing short of incredible. The closing night of the play felt bittersweet, but I wouldn’t have wanted to return to the stage after 15 years with anyone else. I cherish the memories I made with the cast, and

I believe we’ve formed friendships that will last long after the final bow,” Nkwali reflected.

However, the return to theatre was not without its challenges. Nkwali explained that it was her deep love for the craft and her respect for the late arts doyen Sihlangu Dlodlo that motivated her comeback. Dlodlo was the person who first introduced her to theatre, and his recent passing added an emotional layer to her return.

“Returning to theatre felt different this time. The person who first introduced me to acting, Dlodlo, passed away a few months ago, and I never got the chance to say goodbye. This journey back into acting has been filled with mixed emotions: gratitude, grief, and hope.

“Dlodlo opened this door for me years ago, and his passion and guidance still echo in every line I say and every step I take on stage. I know it won’t be easy moving forward, but I carry his words of encouragement and belief in me as I step forward. I dedicate this return to him,” she said.