Samanthole Arts Foundation

The Berlin Conference (1884–1885), which Otto von Bismarck organised, was merely a tool that ensured a total takeover of natural resources and settlement of disputes between the European powers with interests in Africa to create fictitious borders of ownership, allowing various European nations to claim almost all of present-day Africa. Gregory Vuyani Maqoma exits the stage with a bang through Exit/Exist. Gregory Vuyani Maqoma on stage.  Pic: Facebook  Gregory Vuyani Maqoma gives us a taste of history in his iconic dance performance, Exit/Exist. The performance is based on his ancestor King Jongumsobomvu Maqoma (c. 1798 – 9 September 1873) who was a commander in chief of the Xhosa forces during the Cape Frontier Wars. King Maqoma was imprisoned twice at the Robben Island by the Europeans for his commitment to protecting the land of his forebears. He came into prominence after his older brother King Mgolombane Sandile (1820–1878), who was a ruler of the Right Hand House of t

With very few theatre spaces in South Africa, TX Productions Theatre at Moses Molelekwa Community Centre in Tembisa Township is arguably the best of spaces. TX is a performing arts Company which was established in 2008 by Mxolisi Masilela, who also serves as an Artistic Director. His contribution to arts education, development, writing, directing, mentorship and giving opportunities to lesser-known theatre practitioners in the theatre landscape is remarkable. Whenever I find myself at this centre I feel no need to explain myself as a black arts practitioner. One can see how proud and tall black people walk in this space. Two words to describe this are: 'liberating experience'. The young arts practitioners here have warmth; with hugs and firm handshakes even on their first encounter with you.  Itumeleng Moeketsi and Dr. Refiloe Lepere.  Pic Supplied.  TX is an interdisciplinary seedbed space where black people feel seen and valued; testing ideas; a welcoming home for

Hamilton Dhlamini and Thulani Mtshweni brought to life the evils of apartheid through their magnificent stage presence and extraordinary monologues. Their theatrical prowess is showcased by their ability to portray different characters - switching roles between and within the scene with minimal props and costumes. Produced by Ndlondlo Productions, directed by Hamilton Dhlamini and stage managed by Phumeza Damage, this four-decade old play, Woza Albert, was originally written by Percy Mthwa, Mbongeni Ngema and Barney Simon. This two-hander piece is currently touring South Africa, fresh from Eswatini. It mesmerised audiences in Alexandra Township for two days - 10th and 11th of June 2023 - and the next stop is the Makhanda National Arts Festival.  Thulani Mtshweni and Hamilton Dhlamini. Pic Supplied by Alex Theatre Company and Academy  This uniquely-spirited stage piece brings forth the lived experiences of South Africans during apartheid, which some of the presen

The first time I encountered the work of Musa ka Motha, a dancer from Sebokeng, South of Johannesburg, was when he was part of the internationally-renowned dance piece  CION - Requiem of Ravel's Bolero  by Gregory Maqoma at Joburg Theatre in February 2022. Motha was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer, in his left leg when he was about 10 years of age. This incident diminished his dream of playing soccer, but in the long run secured his space in the arts. The flare he added to CION was no doubt a showstopper. Whenever I think of this production, Motha always features in my mind because of his incredible talent.  Musa ka Motha dancer at Britain's Got Talent auditions.  On Saturday night of  the 27th May, Britain's Got Talent experienced a historic auditions show wherein Musa ka Motha (28) offered the most incredible, emotional, inspirational and brilliant audition the world has ever seen on Britain's stage, earning him the first ever Group Gold