In today’s day and age, it is so easy to neglect ones culture and traditions. Some of us go about performing certain rituals without even knowing the significance behind them. Thami Mbekwa is a 20-year old Xhosa girl who has spent most of her life in Johannesburg. Having attended a Model C school for the majority of her schooling years, she has had to balance her identity being a Xhosa girl in a very modern and westernized environment. She decided to watch the performance, Umtshato “The Marriage” to understand a bit more about the rituals involving a traditional Xhosa wedding.

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CREDITS

Sheetal Makhan Director
Vergelheo Das Neves Editor
Prince Monna Camera
Bronwyn Jacobs Camera
Thami Mbekwa Journalist

Umtshato “The Marriage” is a blend of storytelling, dance and drama. The story is told by Amagcalekoqobo, a traditional drama group based in Willowvale and celebrates Xhosa wedding traditions. The group aims to”promote recognition of values and ethics for moral regeneration in the country”. Also performing in the production is Mkhobeni - a group of ladies who present traditional celebratory dances at ceremonies and festive occasions. The story is narrated by Phindiswa Peredayisi, who won a Showtime Award when she was with Ababalisi of the Port Elizabeth Opera House.

Umtshato “The Marriage” is directed by Tina Piek, who has been involved in the traditional dance arena. She is known for developing a number of groups nationally taking them to perform at international festivals. Tina was also involved in the North West Dance Company for many years. She currently lives in Bathurst.