It all started back in the 90s when story teller Duma Ndlovu scripted the first episode of Muvhango, which was broadcast once a week.
The soapie debuted on TV on 7 April 1997 as a 13-episode drama series, broadcast weekly, set in the city of Johannesburg and Thathe Village in Venda. Fast track to 2017, it is now broadcasting five days a week and celebrates 20 years of intrigue, authenticity, drama and edutainment.
The storyline lies in the battle for power between two families and culminates into outright war over a family incident which finally pits the two families against each other, both in this generation and the next.
The family feuds between the Mukwevhos and Mokoenas has continued to be the talking point and looks far from over. “It all started as a concept in the quest to bridge the cultural divide between black communities and also the language superiority. I feel extremely excited to be celebrating this milestone,” Ndlovu said.
“We will continue dishing up authentic stories that talk to communities, which will create [dialogue] and interaction amongst our viewers who happen to be the lifeline of the soapie’s success.
“Also gratitude goes out to everyone who has graced Muvhango with their presence from day one to date. These actors have made a huge contribution to the success that is Muvhango. Here’s to another 20 years,” said Ndlovu, who is also Muvhango’s executive producer.
Viewers can look forward to some breathtaking stories with the Mukhwevho’s about to welcome a new addition to the family. KK is on a mission to tear the Vhakwevho’s family apart … there is so much to look forward to.
As for Sindi Dlathu, who plays Thandaza, the journey has been amazing. “What a journey,” she said.
“Honestly, if someone had told me this would be me 20 years later, I wouldn’t have believed them. But there are things you find in yourself as you grow with the character and the symbiosis is unbreakable.
“I have grown with Thandaza, I have cried, I have laughed and I have danced with her. There’s been a time when she has felt like a sister and I empathised with her and there were times when she has soothed me with her storylines.”
Dlathu said it was hard to point out her favourite storylines but she has enjoyed shooting the weddings as she is a romantic at heart. “It has been a wonderful 20 years and I salute our executive producer, Ndlovu, for the journey.”
Ndlovu now spends much of his time teaching drama to emerging talent and script writers at Joburg Theatre in Braamfontein through his Duma Ndlovu Actors’ Academy.
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