“It is a privilege to bring this production to the KKNK-audiences. It is a classical and genuine South African masterpiece which manages to capture our history. After I saw it last year at the Baxter Theatre in Cape Town, I knew without a doubt that this is something everyone has to see,” says Hugo Theart, head of creativity at Kunste Onbeperk, the official presenter of the KKNK. “It is an authentic production with emotion, and the actors’ performance is absolutely brilliant and magical. The drama revolves around South Africa’s dark past, which is told through pathos, irony and humour. This manages to turn the tragedy almost into hope.”

“It is an honour to welcome the production and theatre legends such as John Kani and Mannie Manim to the festival. Audiences will also have the opportunity to engage with them, for free, throughout the festival,” says Theart.

John Kani’s son, Atandwa Kani, and Mncedisi Shabangu play the roles in this journey of discovery. They give comment on the racial divisions which are still very present in South Africa, through their tongue-in-cheek comments and situations. The production explores freedom and identity in a true South African manner and varies between humour and seriousness.

Atandwa makes the role, which his father played four decades ago, his own with his very unique style. Shabangu’s excellent character interpretation brings out the humour in this masterpiece.

John believes that Sizwe Banzi is Dead became an articulated viewpoint of black people’s opposition to this unlawful legislation. “It is about the universal struggle for identity, dignity for humanity and the respect thereof.”

“Myself, Winston and Athol were like Dr. Frankenstein who created a monster, which ruled our lives for more than four decades. I was glad when we were approached by the Syracuse and Princeton Theatres in America, to revive the production. It gave me the opportunity to work with young South Africans who were not born when this drama was shown to audiences for the first time,” says John. Before the production was taken to America, it was first on show at the Markteater in Johannesburg.

Sizwe Banzi is Dead will only be on show thrice at the KKNK, from on Thursday, 24 March to Saturday, 26 March at 14:00. Theart will be talking to Mannie Manim, John Kani and the actors about the production on Friday, 25 March at 15:45, after the show. Hannes van Wyk will also be talking to John Kani and Sandra Prinsloo on Thursday, 24 March at 08:30. These two South African theatre icons will be speaking about their careers and the interview will also serve as a look back at the 1985 production of Miss Julie, which was produced by August Strindberg, where a kiss between these two performers was shared on stage and led to a walkout by audiences.

For more information, visit kknk.co.za. Alternatively, connect with them on Facebook, Twitter or on Instagram. 

Tickets are available at Computicket, Shoprite/Checkers and House & Home. Accommodation can be booked online.

*Image courtesy of Ruphin Coudyser