It is written and directed by 26-year old, Loyiso Damoyi, and features an ensemble of 11 members from the Khayelitsha-based organisation Africa Jam. The cast comprises Awethu Hleli, Siyamthanda Bhavuma, Ziyanda Bhavuma, Andiswa, Mbolekwa, Nontsikelelo Mabhoza, Elona Booi, Sakhile Oliphant, Nkosiphendule Ntsamba, Busisiwe Mfeketho, Lundi, Bongeka Nomgca and Sive Ngwexane.

Uhlazo, which means ‘disgrace’ in Xhosa, and features powerful traditional music, was selected as Best Play, out of 12 productions, showcased in June at the Zabalaza Theatre Festival.

Performed in isiXhosa, the play bravely and sensitively tackles the Christianity-versus-Amasiko (African Traditional Rituals) conflict which confronts many South Africans. It follows the path of a Christian family of four sisters who are left parentless. After the funeral the youngest daughter releases a secret which brings along confusion as they begin their quest to unite peacefully.

“I was inspired to write the play through my own personal experience and conflict,” explained the young playwright and director. “My mother is a Christian and my father believes in the Amasiko. The fundamental difference in their beliefs led to their divorce and has left me questioning which of the paths is the correct one.”

Earlier this year Damoyi attended a traditional family ritual in the Eastern Cape which was called to protect the clan of which his half sangoma father is head, and whose responsibility it is to consult with the ancestors. This brought him face to face with his own inner turmoil caused by the conflict between the gospel and tradition.

Damoyi has been involved in Africa Jam, an organisation which offers faith enrichment, social upliftment, and arts and education since 2001, and was a stand-out participant in its first annual camp. He currently manages the Khayelitsha Performing Arts group, which provides creative-after school programming for more than 90 young people. The organisation serves youth between the ages of nine and 18 and their communities in some of the most economically disadvantaged communities in the Cape, who regularly encounter violence, hunger, drug abuse and HIV/Aids.

Earlier this year the Baxter launched the Zabalaza Theatre Festival with a new identity, mission, vision and format and introduced the dynamic new team spearheading one of South Africa’s leading development theatre festivals for young community-based theatre-makers and groups, largely focused on the Western Cape.

For discounted block or schools bookings, charities or fundraisers contact Sharon on 021 680 3962, email [email protected] or Carmen on 021 680 3993 or email her on [email protected].