Based on the beloved novel by esteemed poet, novelist, and essayist Njabulo Ndebele, The
Market Theatre announces the premiere of The Cry of Winnie Mandela, a compelling
theatrical production that delves into history, emotion, and the enduring strength of the
female South African spirit.
Ndebele’s highly acclaimed novel was first released in 2003. It captured hearts and minds as
an absorbing imagined reflection on four women at a specific period in the history of
Southern Africa who spent time waiting for their men to return from exile, mines, political
imprisonment, and study abroad. Their ordinary, ‘private’ stories are anchored to the more
powerful public stories of Penelope, of ancient Greek mythology, who waited eighteen years
while her husband Odysseus was away, and Winnie Mandela, who waited for twenty-seven
years. The women question themselves and each other about why they waited and what this
waiting did to them, leading to a series of extraordinary and haunting conversations with one
another.
Adapted by Alex Burger, the stage production of The Cry of Winnie Mandela will take
audiences on a theatrical journey. This poignant play is crafted by an exceptional creative
team led by director MoMo Matsunyane, the current Standard Bank Young Artist Award
Winner for Theatre. She is working alongside costume designer, Onthatile Matshidiso, sound
and videographer, Vangile Z. Mpumlwana, and award-winning set and lighting designer,
Wilhelm Disbergen.
The action in the play centres the stories of Ndebele’s imagined four women. Between
intense emotional moments and cleverly injected humour, the dynamic theatrical adaptation
weaves together the characters’ private accounts, exposing the shadows, isolation, and
complexities of their evocative experiences. A series of intimate and powerful rituals unfold
as they share the profound impact of this period of their lives, delving into the depths of their
longing and uncertainty as they forge their stories to that of the life and times of Winnie
Mandela.
The universal theme of waiting serves as a starting point; a powerful motif, inviting
audiences to reflect on the historical struggles of women while drawing parallels to our own
contemporary lives. Through the characters' shared experiences, the play celebrates the
indomitable spirit of women while paying homage to the legacy of Winnie Mandela.
"The Cry of Winnie Mandela is the first new play in a season of productions that we are
presenting this year as we reflect on South Africa’s 30 years of democracy", said Greg
Homann, Artistic Director of The Market Theatre. He added, "In this 30 Year’s of Democracy
Season we aim to present powerful storytelling and exceptional performances with the hope
of igniting necessary conversations that inspire and challenge audiences to feel and think
about the journey our country has taken and the path we currently are on."
You are invited to join an outstanding cast as they gather, sing, and share stories of strength
and vulnerability in The Cry of Winnie Mandela. The production previews from 30 March
2024 and is currently scheduled to run until 21 April 2024.
An early-bird special on tickets is available until a week before the production opens. The
Market Theatre also offers half-price tickets on Wednesdays at the cost of only R100.
Don't miss this powerful exploration of love, resilience, courage, and the indomitable spirit of
women.
CREATIVE TEAM
Writer: Alex Burger (adapted from the novel of the same name by Njabulo S. Ndebele)
Director: MoMo Matsunyane
Lighting and Set Design: Wilhelm Disbergen
Costume Design: Onthatile Matshidiso
AV and Sound Design: Vangile Z. Mpumlwana
CAST
Rami Chuene as Mannete
Ayanda Sibisi as Delisiwe
Nambitha Mpumlwana as Winnie Mandela
Siyasanga Papu as Marara
Pulane Rampoana as Mamello
Les Nkosi as Prof Ndebele
Season: 30 March – 21 April 2024
Venue: Barney Simon Theatre, Market Theatre
For media enquiries please contact Lusanda Zokufa (Brand and Communication Manager at
the Market Theatre Foundation) at lusandaz@marketheatre.co.za or (011) 832 1641 or 072
367 7867.
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.
