Phalaborwa schools confront GBV through drama

PHALABORWA – Mopani Arts Academy is using the arts to tackle the scourge of gender-based violence (GBV) in Phalaborwa schools.

The academy’s founder, renowned theatre actor Ngwadi Ngoatje, in partnership with the National Arts Council, has launched a GBV awareness campaign that brings plays directly to rural schools.

Through these performances, learners are confronted with the realities of GBV in homes and communities.

Ngoatje told the Herald that the initiative “kills two birds with one stone”, encouraging learners to speak up against violence while also inspiring them to take the arts seriously.

Having performed at prestigious venues such as the State Theatre, Market Theatre, and international stages since 2002, Ngoatje returned to his hometown of Namakgale in 2017.

There, he found that art was virtually nonexistent, prompting him to establish Mopani Arts Academy, which specialises in visual arts, poetry, acting, and other creative disciplines.

So far this year, the academy has visited seven schools. While some learners could relate to the play, most remain hesitant to speak out, as they are usually abused by close family members.

Ngoatje says the academy plans to revisit these schools to continue encouraging learners to share their experiences.

The academy collaborates with local organisations such as Safe Haven, which provides temporary shelter for GBV victims; Voninga, which offers legal support; and the Eco Foundation, which addresses substance abuse issues.

On Thursday, February 26, Mopani Arts Academy will host an arts show at Namakgale Museum, next to the stadium, from 09:00 to 13:00.

The event will feature the play Suit and the Dress, performed by the academy and learners identified during school visits. Attendees can also enjoy poetry, dance, and visual arts.

For more information about the academy or the event, call 064 060 9761 or follow Mopani Arts Academy on social media.