SOWETO SET TO RIVIVE SPIRIT OF 1976 WITH SARAFINA! MUSICAL CELEBRATION

Collen Hans5 months ago5 months ago04 mins

This June, Soweto will resonate with the indomitable spirit of defiance and cultural expression as it commemorates the 49th anniversary of the June 16 Uprising through a powerful revival of the iconic protest musical, Sarafina!. Taking place from 14 to 16 June, the event promises to immerse attendees in a rich tapestry of community, creativity, and history, honouring the children of 1976 while inspiring a new generation.

Organised by Joburg City Theatres and spearheaded by the Soweto Theatre, the three-day event will transform the precinct into a vibrant hub of cultural engagement. “We are reclaiming Soweto’s place as the epicentre of youth activism and creative resistance,” stated Dada Morero, Executive Mayor of Johannesburg. He emphasised the importance of Sarafina! not just as a theatrical piece, but as a poignant reminder of courage and unity amidst political challenges today.

The June 16 Uprising, a pivotal moment in South Africa’s struggle against apartheid, saw youth rise against the imposition of Afrikaans as the medium of instruction in schools. The bravery displayed by young activists like Hector Pieterson continues to inspire activism and social change, resonating deeply in today’s sociopolitical climate.

Engaging Youth Month Activations

This year’s commemorations will include a plethora of Activations aimed at fostering community spirit and engaging today’s youth:

14 June: Interactive youth workshops and community-building activities will kick off the festivities across the Soweto Theatre precinct.
15 June: An outdoor screening of Sarafina! will transport audiences back to the struggle, complemented by live Amapiano music and installations showcasing youth-driven art.
16 June – Youth Day: The forecourt will burst into life with an array of exciting programmes featuring music, drumming, dance, storytelling, and a live concert version of Sarafina!, alongside community brunches and dance competitions.

The festivities will not only be entertaining but will serve as a heartfelt tribute to the courage of the youth who paved the way for freedom and equality. The Gibson Kente Theatre, Yellow and Blue Theatres, and newly developed Container spaces will be bustling with family-friendly programming starting from 11 am daily.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the precinct will benefit from city-led initiatives aimed at improving cleanliness and safety, including lighting projects in Braamfontein and environmental beautification efforts.

“This is not just a show – it is a movement,” remarked Xoliswa Nduneni-Ngema, CEO of Joburg City Theatres. The revival of Sarafina! represents more than just a re-staging; it is a platform for today’s youth to find their voices while paying homage to those who fought valiantly for their rights.