The star-studded musical features one of the country’s international stage and screen keys such as Seputla Sebogodi who just recently joined Peter Mashigo, Ontiretse Manyetsa, Gaolathle Mathenyane, Segomotso Modise, and Gaoimelwe Mokgakala to name a few on stage. The multi-award winning writer and director Martin Koboekae offers a rare glimpse into a rich tapestry of Batswana culture and takes us on a journey that allows us to stare deep into Batswana’s darkest taboos, theories, myths, faith and convictions seeks to reduce the rigidity with which these views have been espoused.
KGOLO, meaning growth, is a Setswana written fictional story inspired by true events. The play is set in 1940 revolving around a rebellious young man who is endowed with mystic powers but relentlessly refuses to surrender to the call to lead his clan to glory and prosperity. The story captures the rich and dramatic nuances and pathos of Batswana and their allegorical prowess. Setswana music and traditional dance are central to the unfolding of the story and the execution. This play is set in 1940 and the language is a marvel to listen to.
Koboekae says he feels proud to present a stage play in one of the so-called “minor languages”. “It is a significant step towards debunking the myth that shows presented in vernacular languages are a waste of time. Setswana is one of the first indigenous languages to acquire written form and as such deserves to occupy centre stage in all platforms, be it culture, literature, dance, music etc. KGOLO is an honest but light-hearted drama in the mould of satire and is boldly presented in Setswana, a rare fete for our main stages” said Koboekae. ‘Kgolo’ is supported by the Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) in association with the Nedbank Arts Affinity. It was last seen in Gauteng stages back in 2010 at the Windybrow Theatre. Now is at the State Theatre for a full season run from 4th to 29th October 2017.
