Experience Africa’s heartbeat– Echoes of Ubuntu ignites the Breytenbach Theatre

The Tshwane University of Technology’s Breytenbach Theatre will come alive with the powerful sights and sounds of Africa from 18 – 21 June 2025, as it hosts Echoes of Ubuntu: Rhythms of African Unity, a vibrant multidisciplinary stage production that promises to stir hearts and inspire minds through the spirit of Ubuntu. The production is staged by staff and students of the Faculty of Arts and Design’s Department of Performing Arts.

Echoes of Ubuntu is a spectacular production blending traditional dance, music and drama to explore the rich cultural expressions of the amaZulu, amaXhosa, amaNdebele, Maswati, Vatsonga, Basotho, Batswana, Bapedi and Vhavenda. Structured in six compelling acts, it highlights life’s most essential values: heritage, transformation, unity, joy and intergenerational wisdom.

Echoes of Ubuntu offers an unmissable theatrical experience and a profound, exhilarating journey into the heart of South African culture. Its vibrant performances, authentic storytelling and powerful message of unity make it essential viewing for anyone seeking a deeper connection to the spirit of Ubuntu and the rich artistic heritage of the country.

This production stands apart through its authentic representation of African ceremonial life, seamlessly blending age-old traditions with contemporary theatrical flair. Audiences will experience the raw energy of warrior dances like iNdlamu and Muchongolo, the communal joy of umTyityimbo and Mogibo and the spiritual resonance of ancestral way of life, all presented on a stage designed to reflect traditional village life and sacred communal spaces.

From the resonant opening act that symbolises unity through The Circle of Life Tshikona, a Vhavenḓa’s construct featuring South African nations in their diversity performing with bamboo reed pipes in a symbolic installation of leadership, to the emotionally charged Rituals and Transformations with sacred dances of healing and initiation, the audience is transported into the diverse and interconnected worlds of South Africa’s communities.

The production culminates in a final act that unites all featured traditions, celebrating African resilience and legacy through rhythm and harmony.

More than just entertainment, Echoes of Ubuntu is a tribute to the living philosophy of Ubuntu – I am because we are – inviting reflection on our shared humanity and encouraging pride in African identity and unity across difference.

Creative team:

• Creator: Thivhafuni D “Maronza” Tshishonge

• Writer: Tebogo Queen Kobo

• Director: Banele Yengeni

• Assistant Director: Siyamthanda Booi

• Language Adviser: Kamuhelo Mailula

• Music Director: Christopher Mbonani

• Assistant Music Director: Nikilitha Manzi

• Choreographer: Samukelisiwe Zungu

• Assistant Choreographer: Justice Makhele

• Stage Manager: Sandra Rathogwa

• Assistant Stage Manager: Tshegofatso Mahlare

Performances are as follows: 18 – 20 June at 19:00 and on 21 June at 13:00 and 18:00. Tickets at Webtickets.

The Breytenbach Theatre is situated at 137 Gerard Moerdyk Street, Sunnyside.

For more information, please send an email to breytie@tut.ac.za 

Don't miss this unique opportunity to witness a cultural awakening on stage.