A theatre group from Tumahole, Hupenyu Creative Initiatives, has been selected to perform at the prestigious Africa Celebrates Festival in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, taking place next month.

The four-day festival, organised by Legendary Gold Limited in collaboration with the African Union Commission and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, celebrates the continent’s unity in diversity. It showcases African art, culture, heritage, trade, investment, science, and technology, with the support of Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tourism.

The 10-member group from Parys has been rehearsing since July. Their production, which features original text and choreography created by the performers themselves, promises to reflect the vibrancy and creativity of South African theatre.

However, their dream of representing Parys — and the country — on an international stage is in jeopardy. The group needs R176 510 to cover travel and accommodation costs. Without financial support, their months of hard work could go unrewarded. Founded in 2008 by three passionate local artists — Bongani Ntshingila (Applied Theatre & Drama), Nkosinatha Taliwe (Performing Arts, Video & Film Production), and Lebeko Nketu (Arts) — Hupenyu Creative Initiatives was born out of both passion and necessity. After struggling to find employment, the trio decided to create their own opportunities while giving back to the community by sharing their skills through local productions and training initiatives.

Their work has been showcased at events such as the Makufe Festival and The Market Theatre, and their productions have even been used by companies to educate employees on workplace issues like safety.

“We often take community issues and turn them into theatre,” the group explains. “In South Africa, artists have very little support, but for us, art is healing. Art is us.”

They now hope that sponsors will step forward to make their lifelong dream a reality and to help them secure a space where they can continue creating and performing. Those interested in supporting the group can contact Bongani on 067 491 8223 or make a donation to: Hupenyu Creative Initiative, Capitec Business Account, Branch code: 450105, Account number: 1053642962

Watch their performance online at: https://youtu.be/hFu-upCT9As?si=EWQAARid_DzlZLCW