Legendary performer Abigail Khubeka will be given her flowers in a tribute show to celebrate her career spanning over 67 years, and her immeasurable contribution in the arts.
To mark Kubeka’s longevity in the entertainment industry, Phambili Siyaya Arts in partnership with Joburg Theatre, supported by the National Lotteries Commission, will be hosting the tribute show on August 17 at the Mandela at Joburg Theatre.
A varied selection of South African music will be delivered over the evening, featuring a stellar line-up that includes Judy Page, dubbed the Queen of Cabaret, Brenda Mtambo, Marah Louw, and Lira.
Simmy will mellow off the evening with her vibrant tones, while Trompies and Mdu’s rhythmic Kwaito vibes will pump up the dance beats.
Director James Ngcobo expressed delight in the tribute production, stating it was a moment to honour the memory of a significant figure: “Celebrating this songbird, Abigail Kubheka, is like tapping into a certain time pocket. Her stunning voice, with its pathos and joyful tones, was what gave her the adulation she has received from multitudes who listened to her, not only singing but weaving narratives from those songs of yesteryear. As Joburg Theatre, we are so delighted with this tribute production, a moment for us to take off our hats to this slice of memory that she is.”
Khubeka too is delighted to have young talent like Simmy in her line-up, saying it brought back memories of her generation’s peak entertainers.
“Unfortunately, due to the laws of the time, we faced many challenges. There were instances where we, as Black performers, could not be seen. We were made to perform behind stage curtains. To perform in town, many artists were required to have a nagpas (night pass), people could not be in town after nine at night, which was a law at the time. Black people could not be in town after nine at night. Many got arrested for contravening the law.
“I myself was arrested several times. It became a common joke among the women performers to pack a nightgown when they went to perform, in case they end up spending the night in the police cells. When Miss World was hosted in South Africa for the first time in 1992 in Sun City, it signified South Africa’s return to the world. I performed alongside Marah Louw and Judy Page, and I am so grateful for them to be part of my tribute show,” Mama Abigail reflected.
Themba Sithole, the show’s producer, spoke about the vision for it, further reflecting on the era’s glamorous and exciting aspects while highlighting the life of pain and suffering.
“Mama Abi represents the Kofifi era, which was glamorous and exciting while at the same time masking a life of pain and suffering. Performers had to fight hard to be recognised for their craft. The performers reflect the same resilience and strength in their respective fields. They remind us to never give up.
“Lira’s presence signifies that we must keep trying. Giving up is a last option. Kwaito is a revolution from the 1990s that continues to help township youth to express themselves. Simmy and Brenda represent strides made by women performers in the entertainment industry, and this cast is the fitting expression of appreciation to Mama Abi.”
The Star