Hlala Ngentombi – The Musical set to showcase local talent

After years of staging community theatre productions, the King Cetshwayo Theatrical Society is stepping onto a bigger stage with its original production, Hlala Ngentombi – The Musical.

The production will take to the Empangeni Civic Centre stage this Saturday, 27 September.

This vibrant theatre piece tells the story of a Zulu maiden, brought to life through traditional drumming, song, dance and colourful African attire.

The musical weaves a narrative of love, struggle, loss and triumph, while celebrating Zulu culture and heritage.

Performed in isiZulu, the production seeks to preserve cultural traditions while addressing contemporary challenges facing young people.

Through an edutainment approach, it highlights issues such as peer pressure, teenage pregnancy and HIV/Aids. The story promotes abstinence, warns against the dangers of the ‘blesser culture’, and emphasises respect, cultural values and vigilance among the youth.

Written and directed by journalist and playwright Wellington Makwakwa, with musical direction by Dr Bhekani ‘Mbhexeshi’ Buthelezi of the University of Zululand, the play features about 70 local participants.

These include actors, dancers, musicians, poets, instrumentalists, prop masters, technicians, stage managers, crafters and dressmakers.

The cast brings together a mix of emerging and established talent. Popular content creator Simthande Myeza features as MakaThangithini, alongside award-winning actress Nompumelelo Mkhwanazi and seasoned performers Lindiwe Dube, Nokulunga Ntuli, Thabiso Qwabe, Siyabonga Sikhakhane and Dlozi Nene.

Learners from Hlamvana High, Ikhandlela Secondary and Khula High also take part, while third-year creative arts students from the University of Zululand gain practical experience through the production.

“It was such an honour to receive the request from the university and we welcomed the third-year students with open arms,” said Makwakwa.

“For Unizulu to identify our work as suitable for their students to learn is overwhelming and shows that the group is doing amazing work.”

The September showcase will serve as a fundraiser to take Hlala Ngentombi to The Playhouse in March 2026, launching a provincial tour that aims to create income and job opportunities for society members.

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