Stage: Groundbreaking Baxter Zabalaza Theatre Festival celebrates 15 years of innovation

The Baxter Zabalaza Theatre Festival is on at the Baxter from 14 to 22 March 2025. It is the 15^th edition of this visionary annual festival. The theme for this milestone Zabalaza:  Make Your Mark. The programme features 15 theatre makers who will be presenting a diverse range of dramas, comedy and theatre for children. Read on for more. Info as supplied:

The groundbreaking Baxter Zabalaza Theatre Festival celebrates 15 years of transformative and innovative artistic excellence

The 15th annual Baxter Zabalaza Theatre Festival, with the theme Make Your Mark, will showcase its remarkable success over the years and takes place at The Baxter from March 14-22, 2025.

This March, the Zabalaza Festival proudly celebrates its 15th anniversary, with a renewed commitment to the development of artists, theatre-makers and communities.

For the past 15 years, the festival has had a tangible impact on the South African theatre landscape and cultural community. Numerous productions and artists have had the opportunity to share, develop and further present their work as a result of participating in this vital event, while audience members have had the chance to experience theatre for the first time.

To honour this milestone, and as part of the festival’s evolution, the team has adopted a new approach to commemorate the occasion and to shift the festival into the next 15 years and beyond.

This is the first time The Baxter has curated the festival, commissioning 15 productions in honour of the celebration and partnering with highly respected theatre makers as mentors to the artists.

They include includes captivating performances that engage and entertain, with drama, children’s shows, comedy, poetry and Jazz in the garden on Sunday.

Don’t miss the chance to make it a family weekend on March 15 and 16 with a programme that’s suitable for everyone to experience the magic of theatre.

The festival has been made possible by the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sports, the Oppenheimer Memorial Trust Fund, the Makwande Empowerment Trust, the City of Cape Town and the HCI Foundation.

Bookings can be made at Webtickets online or at Pick n Pay stores. For block or schools bookings, charities or fundraisers contact Carmen Kearns on email carmen.kearns@uct.ac.za and Mark Dobson on mark.dobson@uct.ac.za

“The Zabalaza Festival has a legacy of showcasing the finest emerging artists in South Africa,” says Zabalaza Artistic Director and Curator, Mdu Kweyama. “It’s a vibrant week-long celebration of South African stories and storytellers, transforming the entire Baxter Theatre Centre into a hub of creativity and connection with performances in every venue and conversations in every corner.”

“To build on the significant impact the programme has had on the theatre landscape, we wanted to position Zabalaza as a sought-after ticket on the national festival calendar, presenting high-calibre productions. In doing so, we elevate the standard of the festival and foster a new wave of creativity and excellence in theatre. Furthermore, the participants bring a wealth of experience, talent and fresh perspectives to the festival. The mentorship system aligns with the festival’s goal of nurturing talent and providing a platform for both new and established artists.”

The 15 theatre makers will offer a range of dramas, comedy and theatre for children. The artists and their productions are:

• Pumpkin Finds Her Kindness by Bianca Flanders;
• Confused Mhlaba by Kitso Seti;
• n Pandok se Liefde by Lauren Snyders;
• Idinga by Loyiso Damoyi;
• Sleeping with the Enemy by Lwanda Sindaphi;
• Umgibe Womphefumlo by Mava Silumko;
• OH by Miliswa Mbandazayo;
• These Are Not My Shoes by Mthobisi Mphandle;
• Blending In? by Nolufefe Ntshuntshe;
• Luks by Samkelo Zihlangu;
• In the Shade of the King Protea by Savannah Steyn;
• The Salt Lesson by Sibuyiselo Dywili;
• Sand Gat by Sohail Booise;
• Don’t Believe A Word I Say by Tankiso Mamabolo;
• Purpose by Thando Doni.

“We are sincerely grateful to the mentors, esteemed members of the industry, who have participated in this year’s programme: Monageng Motshabi, Yael Farber, Mandla Mbothwe, Tiisetso Mashifane, Adrian Kohler, Jaqueline Dommisse, Lara Foot and Nico Scheepers,” says Kweyama.

As a platform for new voices and dynamic stories, the Zabalaza Festival has over the years presented a vibrant line-up of productions that explore identity, community and resilience through inspiring theatre, dynamic storytelling and creativity.  

“Additionally, the 2025 festival will honour its founder members – the late Zoleka Helesi, Thami Mbongo, and Bongile Mantsai as it pays tribute to the collective efforts of everyone involved in making the festival a huge success over the years,” says Bulelani Mabutyana, coordinator and co-curator. “Be part of its future – come witness the outstanding talent and captivating stories.”

“I would like to urge everyone to take up our Zabalaza Challenge. Purchase tickets at only R40, which The Baxter then distributes to learners, students and groups who cannot afford to purchase tickets themselves. The door takings from each show also go straight back to the groups or artists, investing in the future of our sector.” adds Mabutyana.

This year, the fifteen theatre creators took part in developmental workshops and were paired with the mentors to refine their productions. The selected artists are grouped according to three themes: Past, Present and Future. Past – a tribute to previous festival participants; Present –  includes artists who have been involved with the festival over the past eight years, while the Future category features individuals selected based on ongoing observations of the local theatre scene, with attention paid to productions, festivals, reviews and public commentary.

The Baxter will once again host the Best of the Fest Awards, with the ceremony taking place on March 22. The winning script will have the incredible opportunity to be published by Junkets.

Comments from previous festival participants include:

“Zabalaza propelled my success by giving me a platform to showcase my abilities on stage. It’s led me to even more life changing opportunities and treasured networks.” – Siyamthanda Bangani

“I am learning about artistry each day. It has been such an exhilarating and humbling experience. I am growing and I must thank the Zabalaza Festival for that.” -Buhle Sam

“I’m very proud to say that Zabalaza has developed my skill along the way, meeting great mentors who taught me about theatre developing my directing skills.” -Mava Silumko

The 15th Baxter Zabalaza Festival – Make Your Mark, takes place at The Baxter from March 14-22

Tickets to all shows cost R40/R50 for 16:00 and 19:00 Shows

Bookings can be made at Webtickets

For block or schools bookings, charities or fundraisers contact Carmen Kearns on email carmen.kearns@uct.ac.za and Mark Dobson on mark.dobson@uct.ac.za

Overview of productions

The Salt Lesson       

Written by Sibuyiselo Dywili & Directed by Anthea Thompson

Language: English

Age Restriction: 14+

The Salt Lesson embarks on a powerful exploration of complex themes. The play follows a young Black man grappling with his estranged white father who’s suffering from dementia and has tragically forgotten him (the son). This moving narrative delves into the complexities of race within an interracial family, exploring issues of faith, fatherhood, restoration, racism, reparations, land restitution, mental illness, belonging and family conflict through the unique lens of a dementia patient and his abandoned son. The play asks profound questions: What does it truly mean to be forgotten? What does it mean to forget?

Sand Gat                                                                   

Written & directed by Sohail Booise

Languages: Afrikaans

Age Restriction: 14+

‘n Jong man voel vasgevang in sy omstandighede en soek ‘n manier om uit te kom. Die lewe hou aan om vir hom onverwagte uitdagings op sy weg te bring – al reeds op ‘n jong ouderdom. Martin se hoop is om sy drome te behaal, maar sal hy sy eindbestemming bereik?

These Are Not My Shoes

Written by Mxolisi Masilela and directed by Mthobisi Mphandle

Languages: English and isiXhosa

Age Restriction: 11+

In the world where fathers are absent, men and boys grow up without knowing the truth about what happened to their fathers. Anger, sadness and greed become the forces that shape their lives. A woman walks through life like the living dead, clinging to the hope that one day he will return. This story follows the lives of Themba and Xolani after their father leaves, plunging them into a world of pain. Forced to become men before their time.

LUKS

Written by Thando Baliso and directed by Samkelo Zihlangu

Languages: Isixhosa

Age Restriction: 6+

LUKS is a beautiful piece of theatre for children and young people’s vision, to see their peers doing much better with their lives and children taking crucial decisions at their tender ages. The play is in IsiXhosa and English, written by Thando Baliso, filled with fun, love and laughter. Luks is highly favoured by his peers for his good manners until one day when he decided to go against his mother’s will and his life changes forever. The boy finds himself trapped in a battle between what’s right and what’s wrong and all gets well when he finally decides to accept help from all those who care about him. The play bears a strong message about life, hope and the reality the characters face. It also resembles what young people face in their daily lives. It’s a provocative and compelling theatre. It asks questions about whether moral rehabilitation is possible, whilst telling a story.

Umgibe Womphefumlo

Written by Mava Silumko

Languages: IsiXhosa and English

Age Restriction: 14+

When a man’s double life is discovered; his wife will stop at nothing to maintain her reputation in the community. As she tries to cover up his infidelity and the consequences thereof, she unwittingly sets off a chain-reaction of events that exposes all the hypocrisy and dishonesty.

Idinga

Written andDirected by Loyiso Damoyi

Languages: IsiXhosa

Age Restriction: 11+

Idinga is a show about finding a way out of a world that is crafted one dimensional with death as the only exit. Through pain and suffering they take the time to investigate the promises of God and gods.

Confused Mhlaba

Written by Khayalethu Mqayisa, Directed and Adapted by Kitso Seti

Language: English

Age Restriction: 15+

Confused Mhlaba is a play by Khayalethu Mqayisa, first staged in 1974, during the height of apartheid in South Africa. Based in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth, it delves into the struggles of black identity amid the harsh political climate of the 1970s. The title, meaning ‘confused world,’ mirrors the characters’ turmoil as they navigate their personal and political roles within a racially divided society. The play reflects a time when the black South African community faced immense pressure, balancing their desires for self-preservation with the collective call for resistance. Though initially perceived as advocating political moderation, Confused Mhlaba boldly critiques the oppressive apartheid regime. It takes a firm stance against racial injustice, portraying the internal conflicts of characters as symbolic of the broader societal struggle for liberation. While its message may appear nuanced, the play’s opposition to apartheid and the portrayal of the black community’s challenges under an unjust system are unmistakable. The play’s powerful themes led to its censorship in 1975, yet it remains a crucial work in South African theatre, symbolizing the enduring fight against oppression and the complexities of black identity in an oppressive state.

Purpose

Written by Lwanda Sindaphi anddirected by Thando Doni

Languages: isiXhosa and English

Age Restriction: 14+

In a world filled with so much doubt and understanding of what Maths and physics can’t explain to us. Purpose follows a narrative of a young man dealing with the complexities of being summoned to be a traditional healer.

In the Shade of the King Protea

Written by Savannah Steyn, Directed by Matthew dos Santos

Languages: English and Afrikaans

Age Restriction: 14+

This play, inspired by Athol Fugard’s Master Harold and the Boys, explores generational trauma in South Africa through a modern and quirky perspective. It delves into themes of racism, father-son relationships, and the impact of apartheid on personal identity. Through witty dialogue and poignant moments, In the Shade of the King Protea challenges societal norms and sheds light on the complexities of male relationships in a changing world. The characters’ struggles and confrontations with their pasts invite the audience to reflect on their own experiences and perceptions of masculinity. Ultimately, In the Shade of the King Protea serves as a reminder of the lasting effects of historical injustices and highlights the importance of communication and understanding in bridging generational gaps. Fifteen-year-old Liza A video of them sparks an unexpected bond. As Liza grapples with adolescence and solitude, Davie urges her to break free from her comfort zone and embrace life beyond the screen. Interacting with Davie, Liza discovers the significance of genuine connections and real relationships. Despite family complexities, their bond strengthens as they support each other. Davie’s guidance helps Liza.

OH

Written by Miliswa Mbandazayo, Directed by Olwethu Mtanjana

Languages: isiXhosa and English

Age Restriction: 16+

Babalwa has an orgasm for the first time in her adult life, using a vibrator whilst her husband, Sakhe, is away. When she shares this with him and insists on them using the toy – the relationship is put in jeopardy.

‘n Pandok se Liefde

Written by Lauren Snyders, Directed by Samuel Jumat

Languages: Afrikaans and English

Age Restriction: 14+

In the small, rain-soaked town of “Vergenoeg”, a couple in their early thirties, Hetty and Robert, find themselves ensnared in a harrowing experience that will change their lives forever. Struggling with the weight of poverty, Hetty rises one stormy night to use the restroom, which is inconveniently located just a few feet from their humble home. As she makes her way back, she is followed by four ominous figures, leading to a confrontation that neither she nor Robert could have ever imagined. This gripping play delves into the aftermath of trauma, exploring the profound impact of that night on their relationship and identities. It vividly portrays the fragility of manhood and womanhood when faced with unimaginable circumstances, inviting audiences to reflect on the resilience of the human spirit in the face of despair.

Blending In?

Written and Directed by Nolufefe Ntshuntshe

Languages: IsiXhosa & English

Age Restriction: 14+

In the dusty streets of Khayelitsha township, where one’s value and worth are measured by one’s possessions, the depth of one’s pockets and where one is seen; 3 young men navigate their standpoints on whether to succumb to this societal pressure or remain true to who they are and suffer the consequences that come with standing out from the rest.

Pumpkin Finds Her Kindness

Written by Dean Balie and Bianca Flanders, Directed by Bianca Flanders

Languages: English and Afrikaans

Age Restriction: 6+

After losing the school singing competition, Pumpkin struggles with feelings of jealousy and envy. With help from her Ouma and Toots the Cat, Pumpkin goes on an epic adventure to conquer her green monster and find her kindness! With laughter, puppets, music and song, this mini musical will delight the whole family.

Don’t Believe A Word I Say

Written by Tankiso Mamabolo, Directed by Faniswa Yisa

Language: English

Age Restriction: 14+

Don’t Believe A Word I Say is a comedic, autobiographical one woman play, set between the present day and a 7th grade dance the protagonist went to. It is delivered in a series of funny, heart-warming and tragic childhood stories. She explores themes like love, loss, femininity, trauma, coming of age, the unreliability of memory and the contradictions that come with growing up in poverty while attending affluent schools. The play centres the experiences of young black girls who are awkward hopeless romantics living a world that doesn’t value them. She brings her inner child to the forefront and together they process, reminisce and explore one’s need to be perceived as they perceive them.

Sleeping With the Enemy

Written and directed by Lwanda Sindaphi

Language: English

Age Restriction: 16+

Sleeping with the Enemy unpacks and unravels the complicated relation between those who desire to transform the townships and those who cannot endure the realities of informal settlements. Two black attorneys, a married couple, battle over a sexually violated and murdered child. The wife wants to leave the “concentration camps” called townships, but the husband refuses out of a commitment to his people’s economic transformation. His parents were brutally murdered by an Apartheid government; now, he is against the idea of sharing spaces with white communities. Without disregarding his feelings, she overtly confronts the husband to adjust his political belief for the sake of their security. As opposed to him, she sees both spaces as cauldrons of her miserable existence. She does not belong in the white world nor in the black one, the latter of which is governed by patriarchal ideologies. This story excavates the underlying complexities of conflicting resources and feelings. It questions the importance of the concrete and the abstract in relation to humans, especially those who endure hostile experiences daily.

Zabalaza

Zabalaza Outreach and Development Programmes is a Baxter Theatre Centre Development Programme that develops theatre practitioners from in and around the Western Cape, in partnership with the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sports, by providing them with performance platforms so that they can realise their creative concepts. This has been achieved through mini-festivals in target communities, script readings, showcases and a theatre festival held at the Baxter Theatre Centre annually in March.

The Baxter Zabalaza Theatre Festival forms a fundamental part of The Baxter’s broader vision to be a vibrant and integrated cultural hub, reflecting the diversity of the country’s demographics for all its patrons, communities, artists and visitors. South African and African themes are given voice and visibility through the Zabalaza activities. 

Zabalaza process and programmes aim to:

• Identify and nurture talent
• Build theatre audiences
• Create performance platforms through the following activities
• Present skills development workshops
• Present mentorship/Internship programmes:
• Present Community mini-festivals that take place in various communities in and around the Western Cape. Mini festivals have been hosted in the communities of Robertson, Kraaifontein, Stellenbosch, Khayelitsha, Langa, Delft, Nyanga East and Athlone to name a few.

The Baxter Zabalaza Main Festival

The Zabalaza Theatre Festival takes over the Baxter Theatre Centre every March, invading all the Baxter’s spaces to create a festive atmosphere. Community theatre groups are given the opportunity to present their plays on a professional performance platform. Approximately 50 new theatre works, many of them in indigenous languages, are created annually.

Golden Arrow Bus Services provides transport for audiences to attend the festival at a very low cost.

Every year one or more production is awarded the winner of Zabalaza Finest of the Fest. The winning production goes through a mentorship process to raise the standard of the work before it is mounted for a two week season at the Baxter. This provides the company with another opportunity to stage their work in a professional theatre with full logistical support.

For the past four years we have partnered with City Varsity and ACT Cape Town for the bursary program that takes one participant for a degree, diploma, or certificate in creative arts courses.

Programmes in partnership with the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sports

The Western Cape consists of six districts: City of Cape Town, Cape Winelands, Eden, Overberg, West Coast and Central Karoo. The Western Cape Department of Arts and Culture, together with Zabalaza, aims to create drama festivals in all of the districts. To date we have managed to create festivals in the following districts: Cape Winelands, Eden, Overberg and the West Coast.

Every June we host a 3-day script-writing workshop, in which writers are invited to develop their skills. These writers are asked to go back to their communities and create productions to be staged in a showcase in August. Selected productions from the showcase are invited to attend another 3-day workshop in September, where the focus is on acting, directing and the development of their scripts.

The best productions from these showcases are awarded a place in the Baxter Zabalaza Theatre Festival programme. These productions also participate in the annual Suidoostefees at Artscape, and a select few are also granted the opportunity to participate in either the ABSA KKNK in Oudtshoorn or the Best of the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport.

✳ Sponsored content. Images supplied. The Baxter Zabalaza Theatre Festival, takes place at The Baxter from March 14-22, 2025. Participants in the photo. Top row (left to right): Bianca Flanders, Samkelo Zihlangu, Sibuyiselo Dywili, Lwanda Sindaphi, Savannah Steyn, Nolufefe Ntshuntshe, Mava Silumko, Sohail Booise. Front row: Tankiso Mamabolo, Lauren Snyders, Thando Doni. Missing: Kitso Seti, Miliswa Mbandazayo, Mthobisi Mphandle, Loyiso Damoyi. Photo: Xolani Tulumani.

✳ Sponsored content. Featured image. The Baxter Zabalaza Theatre Festival, takes place at The Baxter from March 14-22, 2025. Participants in the photo. Top row (left to right): Bianca Flanders, Samkelo Zihlangu, Sibuyiselo Dywili, Lwanda Sindaphi, Savannah Steyn, Nolufefe Ntshuntshe, Mava Silumko, Sohail Booise. Front row: Tankiso Mamabolo, Lauren Snyders, Thando Doni. Missing: Kitso Seti, Miliswa Mbandazayo, Mthobisi Mphandle, Loyiso Damoyi. Photo: Xolani Tulumani. Supplied.