In a world increasingly divided by power and politics, acclaimed cultural storyteller Elvis Sibeko presents The Kingdom of Ubuntu – a timely Afro-epic that asks what truly holds us together.
Opening at Artscape Opera House on Friday 6 and Saturday 7 March at 19:30, this semi-staged production promises a cinematic musical experience placing unity and shared humanity at its centre.
Created, written, directed and composed by Sibeko, the production brings together the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, the Sibonelo Dance Project, the AfriArts Choir, and – for the first time – an indigenous orchestra led by Emeritus Professor Dizu Plaatjies.
“Ubuntu is not a slogan. It is a responsibility,” said Sibeko. “In a world obsessed with power, The Kingdom of Ubuntu asks whether leadership can still be rooted in compassion, memory and service to the collective.”
Musical traditions unite
The production features a profound musical conversation where Western orchestral traditions meet ancient African sound worlds. The cinematic score incorporates indigenous instruments, ritual sound and embodied rhythm, dissolving cultural borders.
Drawing from all of South Africa’s official languages, including San languages, and incorporating sign language, the concert ensures voice and meaning transcend words. Each culture is honoured through sound, movement, costume and regalia, creating a grand visual and sonic tapestry.
Set in a mythical African kingdom, diverse clans live in harmony until an exiled heir returns to challenge the throne. The story unfolds through music, ritual and movement, asking whether the kingdom will choose domination or Ubuntu. “To bring together two juxtaposed orchestras on one stage is not only a celebration of music, but of unity and heritage,” said Plaatjies.
This is more than a performance – it’s a living testament to our shared humanity.
The production blends orchestral grandeur, indigenous music, contemporary African dance and theatrical storytelling in a 90-minute experience (with interval).
The final moments dissolve the boundary between stage and seats, transforming the theatre into a shared space where audiences become part of the Ubuntu kingdom. In times of disconnection and yearning, The Kingdom of Ubuntu speaks to the human spirit’s desire for love, belonging and re-rooting to one another and Mother Earth.
Suitable for all ages (parental guidance advised).
Tickets start from R150 at Webtickets.
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