The Soweto Theatre Youth Development Programme, Lits’omong recently showcased its drama programme with a production called Nkgo Ea Lits’omo at Blue Theatre, Soweto Theatre, Jabulani.
Nkgo Ea Lits’omo presented three distinct performances delivered by the three groups of students ranging in age from seven to 21.
According to youth community and development board manager, Makhosazane Hlatshwayo, the youth development programme’s aim is to use theatre as a tool for learning in a variety of contexts as well as supporting children’s self-understanding and confidence-building.
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“Today is the end of the year showcase for the learners. This is how we usually do the programme, we teach learners from February up until December and towards the month of December we conduct the final showcase so as to show parents what their children have learned and the talent they have developed within the theatre,” said Hlatshwayo.
The three showcases explored a variety of themes related to coexisting with children and other people, as well as the notion that human hygiene should come first and that knowledge can often be misinterpreted since it requires patience.
A parent who attended the year-end showcase, Gugulethu Kubheka said she was excited to see her daughter being part of the Soweto Theatre Youth Development Prgramme.
“I’m happy that my daughter is a part of this programme because I’m really proud of the effort and confidence she has on stage. I never would have imagined that my daughter would feel comfortable performing in front of so many people,” said Kubheka.
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Parents and supporters came in numbers to witness the incredible hard work and determination put in by the storytellers though the programme.
“The play today is fantastic, and I’m thrilled to showcase my talent to the public. I believe that today’s programme has been a huge success,” said one of the learners, Ntokozo Kubheka.
