Dust off your finest heels and shimmering outfits, the arrival of Nkoli: The Vogue Opera is approaching.
The Baxter Theatre will play home to the groundbreaking production that encapsulate a unique fusion of history, dance, music and queer culture from October 9 to 19.
The production is a part-opera, part-vogueing-ball.
Following its hit run at The Market Theatre in Johannesburg in 2023, Nkoli: The Vogue Opera’s move to Cape Town is set for a high energy showcase.
This avant-garde production tells the story of South African anti-apartheid and LGBTQ+ freedom fighter Simon Nkoli.
Nkoli was imprisoned on charges of treason at the Delmas Treason Trial (1985 to 1988) and on his release organised the first pride march in Johannesburg in 1990. He played a key role in ensuring gay rights were enshrined in our Constitution. Nkoli died in 1998 aged 41 of Aids-related illnesses at a time when antiretroviral drugs were denied in South Africa.
The opera is set within a vogueing ballroom competition and follows Nkoli’’s journey from his childhood in Sebokeng township to his rise to prominence as a leader in the fight against apartheid and for LGBTQI+ rights.
The storyline displays the characteristics of courage, determination, unity and love and is set against the backdrop of one of the most tumultuous times in South African history and told through protest songs, lush arias, lip-syncing, rap, huge choruses and remarkable video projections.
The role of Nkoli is played by Simbone Qonya who said: “Portraying this character has been a deeply humbling and transformative experience. To immerse myself, I delve into the character’s backstory, analysing their motivations and struggles. I connect with their emotional journey, exploring how their experiences shape their actions and decisions.”
About channelling the character, Qonya said: “To transform into character I employ various techniques: intense research and physical preparation. I also collaborate closely with the director and fellow actors to ensure authenticity. The weight of this character’s story resonates profoundly.
“I recognise the responsibility to honour their narrative, staying true to their spirit while bringing nuance and depth. It's a privilege to bring this character to life, and I strive to do justice to their story, inspiring empathy and understanding in audiences.”
Nkoli: The Vogue Opera is directed by John Trengrove, who explained: “Simon was a fearless trailblazer who spent his life fighting the machinery of white supremacy, as well as for his right to exist as a queer person.
“Often, these two causes came into conflict and he faced serious homophobic backlash from within the black resistance movement. But Simon never wavered, insisting that both causes were integral to who he was.
“His story is not just relevant today, it’s one that resonates around the world, especially in the global South where the fight for race equality and for the dignity of queer people remains an ongoing struggle. We are incredibly proud to be bringing his inspiring story and his message to the world.”
The Cape Town run of Nkoli: The Vogue Opera promises to engage audiences with visually striking sets, opulent costumes, and a cast of extraordinary performers including renowned singer Ann Masina, newcomer Simbone Qonya and the amazing rapping emcee, Niza Jay.
Through its dynamic storytelling and vibrant and emotional resonance the vogue-opera celebrates Nkoli’s life and legacy and is a powerful call for justice and equality, especially for South Africa’s LGBTQ+ community.
Show times are 7.30pm daily with matinee performances at 2pm on Saturdays. Tickets are available via Webtickets at R200 to R350.