Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Sunday Life Reporter
The story of King Mzilikazi kaMashobane, a warrior and founder of the Ndebele nation, is set to return in a bold local musical production that aims to captivate audiences and bring history back to life.
Titled “Mzilikazi: The General Who Defied Shaka Zulu”, the epic production is scheduled to premiere in September 2027 as part of the King Mzilikazi Day commemorations.
But the journey to the stage begins much sooner, with auditions set for July and August this year, marking the first step in bringing the grand vision to life. The production brings together a formidable creative team led by seasoned culturalist Albert Nyathi, with acclaimed playwright Thabani Moyo spearheading the script. Supporting them are Matesu Dube (assistant artistic director), Beauty Ndlovu (administration and logistics), Ezra Tshisa Sibanda (media and publicity), and Lenox Lizwi Mhlanga (stakeholder relations).
For generations, Mzilikazi’s story has lived in oral tradition. Now, it is being reimagined for the theatre in a sweeping narrative that traces his life from a vulnerable childhood to the founding of the Ndebele kingdom. The musical follows Mzilikazi’s early years as an orphan under the protection of Zwide, his rise within the Zulu kingdom under Shaka, and the defining moment that changed everything, which is his refusal to surrender tributary cattle to the Zulu king.
“That act of defiance set off a journey across the vast savannah. It led to fierce clashes with Shaka’s elite uMbelebele regiments and ultimately to the establishment of a new kingdom beyond the Limpopo, which is the Ndebele Kingdom,” said Nyathi.
He describes the production as more than entertainment.
“This is a living archive, an act of cultural preservation. It is the heartbeat of our ancestors brought to life. By portraying encounters between Mzilikazi and figures such as missionary Robert Moffat, we honour the depth and complexity of our history,” said Nyathi.
At its core, the musical explores the forging of a nation, how diverse communities, including the Khumalo, Nzuza, Sotho-Tswana, Tonga, Venda, Kalanga and Nambya, were unified under one identity.
For Thabani Moyo, who is trusted in the script-writing segment, the project is a creative challenge and a national responsibility. He said he is excited to be among the team spearheading the “dream”.
“I’ve always wanted to write about Mzilikazi. When Nyathi approached me, I knew it was the right time. The idea itself has a long history. Nyathi had previously explored the concept alongside late cultural icons Cont Mhlanga and Mbongeni Ngema, but earlier efforts failed to materialise. This time, we’re determined to tell the story,” said Moyo.
He offered a sneak peek into the musical’s script, saying it does not shy away from the complexities of Mzilikazi’s life. It explores key and often debated moments, from the death of his father, Mashobane, at the hands of Zwide, to his rise within the Zulu kingdom, his split from Shaka, and the controversies surrounding his leadership.
“These are conversations we cannot avoid. King Mzilikazi’s life was long and eventful, and naturally, there are differing perspectives. We’re trying to compress all this into a single production, meaning we have to be very creative to realise this goal,” said Moyo.
Among the most contentious issues that the production will also explore are the fate of Nkulumane, the heir apparent, as well as Mzilikazi’s consolidation of power over various groups. Yet, beyond the controversy, the production seeks to reshape the narrative.
“We want to challenge the myth that Mzilikazi was simply a violent ruler. He was a nation-builder who led with care and protected those in need. His legacy is about unity, identity and resilience,” said Moyo.
Extensive research has gone into developing the script, with contributions from Nyathi, Lenox Mhlanga and Matesu Dube. Even so, Moyo admits the scale of the story presents its own challenges.
“Mzilikazi is a gigantic historical figure. It is difficult to decide what to include and what to leave out. The script is only the beginning, it is a roadmap. The real work lies in how the creative team will bring it to life.
“But what I can assure the audiences is that they can expect a rich cultural experience rooted in Ndebele traditions, with vibrant performances of Indlamu, the elegance of Isitshikitsha, and the high-energy amabhiza dances. It’s an exciting project that we are looking forward to.”
Meanwhile, preparations for the 2026 King Mzilikazi annual commemorations are underway, with organisers, the Mthwakazi KaMzilikazi Cultural Association (MMCA), saying this year’s event is expected to surpass previous editions in both scale and impact. The cultural gathering will take place on September 4 and 5 at the King Mzilikazi Memorial Site, about 22km outside Bulawayo along the Old Gwanda Road.
Following a strong turnout of around 10 000 people in 2025, organisers are optimistic that attendance could double this year. The growing interest from both local communities and the diaspora reflects a renewed appreciation of cultural heritage and identity.
The first day of the programme will be dedicated to children, featuring learning sessions, storytelling, and interactive activities centred on Northern Ndebele history and the values of Ubuntu. The main commemorations on September 5 will honour the life and legacy of King Mzilikazi, celebrating his leadership and role in the formation of the Ndebele nation.
