When the world stopped to honor Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela on his birthday, Artscape took a magnificent step to pay tribute to this global icon. On 23 July, the revered stage hosted a magical production, ‘Mandela – A More Human Face’, that left attendees awestruck. Here’s a look back at an evening filled with beauty, art, culture, and a message that resonated with the very essence of Madiba’s spirit.
An Unforgettable Performance Celebrating A Great Leader
A collaboration of Bulelwa Basse Services and Lyrical Base Project in association with Artscape, the evening was adorned with the stunning voices of the Township Opera Company and the captivating spoken word of accomplished poet, Bulelwa Basse. Sandile Kamle, as music director, painted a compelling tale of Nelson Mandela’s exceptional milestones.
Through music and spoken word, the production captured the essence of Mandela’s life’s work for peace and reconciliation. A reflection of the outstanding achievements of a leader who shaped South Africa and inspired the world, the performance was a living testament to Mandela’s enduring impact.
Songs That Resonated
The evening was filled with enchanting melodies, including classics like Ntyilo-ntyilo, Isizwe Sabathembu, and Nkosi Sikelela iAfrica. Each song was a powerful embodiment of Madiba’s human spirit, reverberating through Artscape and touching every soul in the audience. In an exclusive interview with Africa Nova, Bulelwa Basse revealed:
“These songs are not just words and tunes; they are the echoes of Madiba’s dreams, his struggles, his triumphs. Performing them was like speaking to the heart of South Africa.”
A Legacy of Love and Unity
The performance also paid homage to Mandela’s famous words: “No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.”
The Impact on the Audience
Guests at the event described a night filled with inspiration, reflection, and a renewed commitment to the values Mandela championed. Tears, laughter, and applause filled the auditorium as the audience connected with the enduring legacy of Madiba’s human spirit. A member of the audience shared:
“I felt Mandela’s presence in that room. His spirit was alive, and it reminded us all to carry his legacy forward.”
Artscape’s Commitment to Culture and Heritage
This celebration was not just an isolated event; it underlined Artscape’s ongoing dedication to preserving and promoting South Africa’s rich cultural heritage. By connecting generations through art and music, Artscape continues to be a beacon of creativity, unity, and positive change.
Artscape’s tribute to Mandela was more than a show; it was an experience that transcended time, space, and our understanding of art. It brought together different art forms to capture the multifaceted personality of Nelson Mandela. A reminder of how far South Africa has come and the path we must continue to walk, it was a celebration of the very core of what makes us human. A more human face, indeed, for Madiba’s legacy.
About the Author:
Edmore Nkosi is a riveting South African journalist, specializing in entertainment and current affairs. With his unique ability to blend pop culture with real-world events, Edmore has carved a niche in providing captivating narratives that resonate with a diverse readership.
