The Garden Boy, Political post-apartheid theatre
Venue: Masonic Front, Freemasons Hall
Next Performance: Friday 27th June 18:00
Preview
By Kungawo Ralo
The Garden Boy by Khaya Ngema is an interesting blend of theatre and music as elements of storytelling. Ngema uses these elements to tell the story of his father who was a politician and guitarist, and was murdered by political fighters.
This theatre piece is one that is very close to the heart of Khaya Ngema. He relates to it strongly, as it is the story of his life. “Since my father was a guitarist, the garden boy also plays the guitar and uses Maskandi as a way to heal and come to terms with all that has happened” he said. He also brings attention to the everlasting impact that apartheid still has on South Africa, adding that he hopes this play unifies African people.
The music in The Garden Boy is a huge cultural element for Ngema. As someone who is proud of his Zulu roots, he says, ” I decided to use Maskandi music to show the beauty and vibrance of my culture. It is also a tribute to my father, who was always strumming his guitar and playing Maskandi music.” His use of this type of music also incorporates struggle songs, further emphasising the anti-apartheid element of the play.
As a powerful fusion of Maskandi music and personal storytelling, The Garden Boy confronts the pain of political violence with raw honesty. Through the journey of one man with the vision of honouring his father’s memory, the show asks us to remember, to feel and to heal. This is more than theatre, it is a reckoning. Don’t miss it.
