Ramadimetja Makgeru
I’m a theatre enthusiast mainly because of the raw nature of it — live acting, singing and dancing that requires hours of practice to perfect, as there is no luxury of redoing any scenes in front of a live audience.
Recently, I transformed my Sundays into theatre days. On one such Sunday, I attended the closing show of “Sophiatown” at the John Kani Theatre at the Market Theatre.
The performance left me profoundly emotional; tears streamed down my face as I watched the poignant depiction of life and forced removals in Sophiatown between 1955 and 1960. I found myself grappling with my emotions hours after the curtains closed.
A recent review by Kgomotso Moncho-Maripane echoed the sentiments, praising the play’s timeless appeal and its profound engagement with South Africa’s turbulent history. The review highlighted how “Sophiatown” not only revisits the vibrant but tragic community of the 1950s but also posed a pertinent question that resonates deeply in today’s socio-political climate: What kind of SA do you want?
Directed by the talented Aubrey Sekhabi, the play has been noted for its brilliant script and vibrant setting that brings to life the melting pot of cultures that was Sophiatown.
Terence Ngwila and the rest of the cast deliver performances that are heartfelt and powerful, capturing the spirit of a community torn apart by apartheid yet resilient in its dignity and unity.
What struck me hardest was the realisation that the conditions depicted — a mid-century tragedy — mirror the reality for many in Meadowlands. Nearly 70 years after the forced removals, descendants of those displaced continue to battle a debilitating cycle of demotivation, alcoholism, criminality and unemployment. The stories of individual characters, told so vividly as the play concluded, underscored a relentless echo of disenfranchisement that persists through generations.
The haunting reflection serves as a poignant reminder of the deep-seated issues that remain unaddressed in our society. As we have marked the 30th anniversary of Freedom Day, it is crucial to reflect on the strides we have made towards democracy and on the stark realities that many South Africans face. The legacy of apartheid is very much alive in the systemic poverty and the psychological and economic struggles of black communities.
In telling the story of Sophiatown, the play showcased spectacular talent and engaged us in a necessary conversation about our collective past and its continuing impact on our present. I encourage everyone to witness the powerful production as it reopens soon at the State Theatre. It is more than just entertainment; it is an urgent call to acknowledge and act upon the deep-rooted inequalities that haunt our nation.
As South Africa commemorated the 30th anniversary of Freedom Day, it’s a poignant moment for reflection on the journey from apartheid to democracy and a crucial opportunity to look forward to the nation’s future. The milestone offers more than just a celebration of liberation; it beckons us to contemplate the strides made, the challenges overcome and the road ahead.
Civic responsibility lies at the heart of the commemoration. It urges every citizen to engage actively in shaping the nation’s future, participate in democratic processes and hold leaders accountable. Our democracy is not a passive inheritance but a living, evolving entity that requires constant nurturing and vigilance.
Moreover, Freedom Day compels us to honour the unsung heroes who have contributed to South Africa’s democratic journey. It’s a day to recognise the sacrifices of people and to amplify their voices in our collective narrative. Their stories remind us that the fight for freedom is ongoing and that each of us has a role to play.
Looking ahead, we must confront the challenges that threaten to undermine our hard-won freedoms. Corruption, injustice,and social divisions continue to plague our society, demanding decisive action and unwavering commitment to the values of democracy. We must strive for a South Africa where every individual, regardless of race, gender or background, can enjoy equal rights and opportunities.
In conclusion, Freedom Day symbolises not only a triumph of the past but a beacon of hope for the future. It’s a day to celebrate our resilience, acknowledge our shortcomings, and recommit ourselves to the ideals of democracy and equality. As we stand on the threshold of a new era, let us honour the legacy of those who came before us by building a South Africa that is free, inclusive and just for all its citizens.
Ramadimetja is a freelance writer deeply committed to social justice. She uses her writing as a form of activism to amplify the voices of grassroots leaders and community members.