Sikelela: A South African Musical Opera

SIKELELA is a biographical Musical Theatre production about the national anthem of South Africa that revisits the life of Enoch Sontonga, the author and composer of “Nkosi Sikelela iAfrika”, who died in obscurity at the budding age of 32 in April 1905. Although citizens (and beyond) sing the hymn, the majority is unaware of the story behind its composition and further iterations in its multicultural trajectory and relevance in popular culture, as a dominant musical deity for generations.

This new production, in development since 2020, evolved into a meditation on art and emotional connection grounded by a cinematic score which blends traditional folk; choral and classical arrangements; a