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Legacy Meets Innovation: Mak Manaka's "MINA NAWE The Last Language" Weaves Together Three Generations of South African Artistic Excellence

In a powerful confluence of legacy, innovation, and personal triumph, acclaimed poet Mak Manaka is set to present his groundbreaking theatrical experience “MINA NAWE The Last Language” at the Market Theatre’s Mannie Manim on 14 March 2025. The show is in partnership with the National Arts Council (NAC), The Market Theatre Foundation, Dramatic Artistic And Literary Rights Organisation (DALRO) and Manaka Publications.

This one-night-only performance marks a profound milestone as Manaka celebrates 30 years of resilience and artistic growth since his life-altering accident in 1995.

Following in the footsteps of his father, the legendary Matsemela Manaka, Mak has orchestrated a masterful fusion of poetry, dance, and music that bridges generations of South African theatrical excellence. The production showcases an extraordinary assembly of talent bound by both blood and artistic legacy, featuring choreography by his mother, Nomsa Manaka, with assistance from his aunt, Jeanet Mokhela. The musical direction, helmed by Tshepo Mngoma, son of the iconic Sibongile Khumalo, creates a rich tapestry of sound alongside percussionist Lebogang Mokhela.  The remarkable vocalist Phumla Siyobi, whose unique voice echoes the tradition of discovering extraordinary talent that began when Manaka’s father cast a then-unknown Sibongile Khumalo in his 1980s production “Goree.”

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“MINA NAWE” delves deep into the intersection of identity, disability, and self-discovery, as Manaka crafts an immersive journey through movement, word, and song. The performance explores the complexities of being a Black man living with a physical disability, woven into a narrative about relationships and self-acceptance. At its heart, the production advocates for the courage to listen to one’s inner voice.

“This performance is not just a celebration of artistic legacy but a testament to the power of unlearning and rediscovery,” says Manaka. “Through the language of poetry, music, and dance, we’re creating a space where personal struggle transforms into universal understanding.”

The unique blend of familial artistry and contemporary expression promises an unprecedented theatrical experience that honours the past while boldly stepping into the future. This exclusive one-night engagement represents a milestone in South African theatre, where disability representation meets artistic excellence and family legacy.

ENDS

The Market Theatre is a Division of The Market Theatre Foundation, an agency of the Department of Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation.

For enquiries, please contact Bongiwe Potelwa (Publicist at the Market Theatre Foundation) at bongiwep@markettheatre.co.za or (011) 832 1641.

For reduced price block bookings (of 10 or more) and school groups, contact Anthony Ezeoke (Audience Development) at AnthonyE@markettheatre.co.za or 083 246 4950.