ZULULAND Observer newshound Wellington Makwakwa (31) will showcase his first theatre production in Empangeni next month.
He wrote and will direct The Death of the Emperor Shaka play that will be staged at the Empangeni Civic Centre on Friday, 4 November.
The story is based on the late Zulu ruler King Shaka and highlights events surrounding his death.
‘The story is about a series of events which happened from 1827 to 1828. It shows the other side of King Shaka which hasn’t been told, like the love he had for his mother,’ said Wellington.
This young journalist and writer from eSikhaleni has been writing stories since he was in primary school, even before his journalism career started.
‘I have always been fascinated with storytelling and history. I grew up with a grandmother who was a storyteller. She left me with the desire to tell our own stories. This play is dedicated to her as appreciation for the skill she taught me at a young age,’ says Wellington.
‘I love theatre, but unfortunately there is no platform for it in Zululand. I want to change this and write stories which will give our local talent a platform to shine.’
Wellington worked with well known Ngwelezanaborn actor and performer Mthandeni Mbambo (31).
Mthandeni is known for his roles in several TV and theatre productions.
He was recently selected to be part of Mbongeni Ngema’s Sarafina, which is set to tour the world next year.
His appointment followed another international musical, Afrika My Home.
In the musical he was a narrator alongside Mondli Makhoba of Uzalo and Abdul Khoza of the Mzansi Magic telenovela, The Road.
He also made an appearance on the Mzansi Magic telenovela Rockville, and is part of the call cast of the SABC 1 soapie, Uzalo.
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