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You are at:Home»ARTS & LIFE»Calling us back to our roots
ARTS & LIFE

Calling us back to our roots

Mbasakazi MakubaloBy Mbasakazi MakubaloJune 25, 2022Updated:June 25, 2022No Comments2 Mins Read
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Eastern Cape Ensemble traditional dancers at perform at the NAF. Photo: Siyamthanda Pongco

MUSIC: Eastern Cape Ensemble
Review by MBASAKAZI MAKUBALO

Adla ngokuthi amaXhosa, umntu ngumntu ngabantu! Eastern Cape Ensemble joins hands in celebrating the life of John Knox Bokwe at the NAF. Photo: Siyamthanda Pongco.

Nqandani magwala ndini! Zemka inkomo zoBawo. Masibuyelen’ embo mzo’ ontsundu! A Xhosa idiom that calls us to heed our roots.

South Africa prides itself on its distinctive cultural and linguistic diversity. In the predominantly isiXhosa Eastern Cape are the ‘sub-nations’ of the Amamfengu, AmaXesibe, Mpondo, Amampondomise, Amahlubi…

Exhibiting rich talent from diverse nationalities, the Eastern Cape Ensemble celebrated the life and times of John Knox Bokwe at this year’s National Arts Festival (NAF). An intellect of note, Bokwe was a South African journalist, Presbyterian minister, and one of the most celebrated isiXhosa hymn writers and musicians. His best compositions include Vuka Deborah, Plea for Africa, and Marriage Song.

Traditional instruments such as ikatara (guitar), uhadi (harp), and makweyana (musical bow) exemplified the rich aural flavours of the Eastern Cape through poetry, dance, and acting.

Komani (Queestown) artist Bhekumzi Songxishe said he was overjoyed to be part of the ensemble. “Being a part of this move is an extreme honour; I get to experience something that many people can only wish for. Showcasing our different talents is an opportunity not to be taken for granted, and we also get to tell the story of John Bokwe – a hero.”

Bhekumzi Songxishe on the left. Photo: Mbasakazi Makubalo.

Songxishe said some of his joy stemmed from lifting the COVID-19 regulations – the presence of multi-cultural audiences at full live performances brought warmth to the room.

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Mbasakazi Makubalo

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