Joburg Theatre proudly announces its latest theatrical triumph, a stirring adaptation of Fred
Khumalo’s acclaimed novel, brought to life by a stellar South African creative team. This
moving production will run from 9 to 28 September 2025 on the Mandela Stage.
Set in Paris, 1958, the story begins with a brutal incident in a prestigious restaurant, two
men dead, a head waiter awaiting trial. As a determined journalist investigates the crime,
he uncovers the extraordinary life of Pitso Motaung, a South African soldier who fought
alongside Allied forces during World War I.
Pitso’s journey takes a tragic and unforgettable turn when he boards the SS Mendi, a
troopship that sank in 1917, claiming the lives of over 600 black South African soldiers, a
devastating and often overlooked chapter of our history. This poignant tale, woven with
humor and sorrow, follows Pitso across decades and continents, exploring themes of war,
love, loss, and resilience.
The production will oOer an in-depth exploration of South African historical narratives. The
accompanying book not only commemorates the soldiers who perished but also stands as
a significant academic resource. It was recognized with the award for Best Fiction Single
Authored Volume in the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences in 2019, underscoring
its scholarly impact and contribution to the field.
Adapted by Palesa Mazamaisa and James Ngcobo, who also directs, the production is a
tribute to the fallen and the survivors, those who carried the memory of the SS Mendi
forward through generations.
Msaki, one of South Africa’s most celebrated musical talents, composes an evocative and
soul-stirring score, while internationally acclaimed choreographer Luyanda Sidiya brings
the narrative to life through powerful movement and physical storytelling.
James Ngcobo, Artistic Director of Joburg City Theatres, shares:
“This work is a reclamation of black history, of voices that were silenced. We are proud to
present a production that speaks so deeply to who we are, to our past, and to the legacy we
owe our ancestors.”
Performance Details:
Dates: 9–28 September 2025
Venue: Mandela Stage, Joburg Theatre
Tickets: Available at [www.joburgtheatre.com] (http://www.joburgtheatre.com) or
Webtickets
This September, join us for an unforgettable theatrical experience, a story of sacrifice, love,
and remembrance that echoes through time.
Click the link below to watch Fred Khumalo’s interview about the book:
Publicity Images:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/112mW3kpiPpw4WBDViIXFlc2gaRuFfGOL?usp=driv
e_link
ENDS
For media enquiries, contact:
Siyabonga Mposula
Marketing@joburgtheatre.com
082 777 0704
Synopsis:
Set against the backdrop of Paris in 1958, the story begins with a violent incident in a
prestigious restaurant that leaves two men dead and a head waiter awaiting trial.
As a journalist delves into this troubling event, he unravels the extraordinary life of Pitso
Motaung, a young South African soldier who fought alongside the Allies during World War I.
Pitso’s journey takes a heartbreaking turn when he boards the SS Mendi, a ship that
tragically sank in 1917, resulting in the death of over six hundred black soldiers—a largely
forgotten disaster. Through a moving narrative that intertwines humor with sorrow, Fred
Khumalo chronicles Pitso’s life, spanning multiple conflicts and generations, while paying
tribute to both the fallen and the survivors of this catastrophe.
The story is a powerful exploration of love, war, and friendship, inspired by the tragic legacy
of the SS Mendi.
Cast
Pitso Motaung – Clint Brink
Investigator – Jose Domingos
Wind – Sibusiso Mkhize
Wind – Lerato Gwebu
Jerry – Thokozani Nzima
Marie-Thérèse – Sharon Spiegel
Matshidiso – Thuli Thabethe
Tlali – Ontiritse Manyetsa
Ngqavini – Kwenzo Ngcobo
Portsmouth – Charlie Bougenon
Musicians – iComplete
Violinist – Nakedi “Ace” Phenyo
Choreographer – Luyanda Sidiya
Composer and Music Director – Msaki
Soundscape – Nebo Mafabatho
Script adapter – Palesa Mazamisa
Costume Designer – Nthabiseng