Bayede Shaka - The Spear is Born is an internationally-acclaimed original musical written and directed by Edmund Mhlongo, performed by K-Cap Alive Kids from KwaMashu with Henry Cele in the title role. It runs in the Playhouse Opera from July 20 to 26.

This return season will feature the impressive Henry Cele who will reprise the title role for which he has become famous. Since his iconic role as uShaka in the film Shaka Zulu, Henry Cele has been playing leading roles in movies like Inkomo edla yodwa, Ipi ntombi, The Ghost And The Darkness, Tropical Heat, Ifa lakwaMthethwa and Freedom Fighter. Joining him will be Brenda Mhlongo in the role of Nandi. The production presents an excellent opportunity to create awareness and promote the heritage of South Africa, in particular the Nguni culture.

Bayede Shaka is one of the most successful musical theatre productions to be staged by Edmund under K-Cap theatre productions – it has been a hit locally and internationally from 1999 till 2003.Through its success, the production had a huge public demand and K-Cap have responded on that call by bringing it back in a presentation that is more powerful than before. There are also many newly recruited actors and dancers, some of whom will be performing for the first time in the professional theatre production.

“The great legendary King Shaka is portrayed as a Zulu hero and a builder of the Zulu Kingdom and promoter of African unity,” says Xolani Chris Majozi of K-Cap. “It is well known that King Shaka was against division and discrimination amongst tribes/clans and people and was a great believer in unity. In 2001, this highly acclaimed K-Cap production had a successful run at the Johannesburg Civic Theatre where it was even attended by Dr Nelson Mandela who hailed it highly afterwards saying: “This has been my best ever night spent with my grandchildren…”.”

Bayede Shaka – The Spear Is Born features energetic Zulu dancing accompanied by drumming and full band of experienced musicians: two guitarists, a bassist, drummer, percussionist and pianist. It runs in the Playhouse Opera from July 20 to 26. Book at Computicket or Dial-A-Seat on 031 369 9555/444.