World-acclaimed writer, lyricist, composer and film producer Mbongeni Ngema will be telling his story in a new musical.
Thina Bant’ Abamnyama will be officially launched at Mbongeni Ngema’s upcoming musical extravaganza at the Theatre of Marcellus at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park, east of Johannesburg in September.
Speaking to Sunday World this week, Mbongeni Ngema said he will take the audience down memory lane from where it all started right through to his new EP Thina Bant’ Abamnyama, which will be launched at the musical.
“BLACK is my autobiography told in music and dance. I promise the audience a good time of music and dance, done the Mbongeni Ngema-style. I will perform all the favourite hits including Stimela SaseZola, Woza My Fohloza, Freedom is Coming Tomorrow, and many more,” he said.
Thina Bant’ Abamnyama is a cry from black people. Mbongeni Ngema is once again challenging government, hinting that it is not doing enough to change the plight of poor people.
“They only remember the poorest of the poor when it is time to campaign for elections by sending them food parcels,” Mbongeni Ngema said.
“They live in horrible shacks with no electricity. They still use candles and paraffin stoves and the imikhukhu [shacks] catch fire and burn in cold winters. The only time we see politicians visit such areas is during campaigning.”
The EP aims to set tongues wagging, and may ruffle some feathers of politicians. The sing-along is also sure to be a hit among the despondent masses, as it directly speaks to their frustrations. It will also get the nation dancing.
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