NKOLI: THE VOGUE OPERA. Created and composed by Philip Miller. Lyrics co-written by S’bo aka Gyre. Directed by Rikki Beadle Blair and John Trengove. Video projections by Catherine Meyburgh. Choreography by Llewellyn Mnguni. Musical director: Tshegofatso Moeng. Costume Design: Sikelela/Mr Allofit. Motion Graphics: Marcos Martins.
KAREN RUTTER reviews
What an achievement! Philip Miller’s Nkoli: The Vogue Opera is a poignant, clever, camp and magnificent tribute to a hero of the South African liberation struggle. Make no mistake, if there was ever any ambiguity (or even ignorance) over the role Nkoli played in the events leading towards, and also after, the country’s democratic victory over apartheid, this production will get you up to speed with all the sass of a drag queen dissing a Trump supporter.
Created and composed by Philip Miller, with a notable creative crew behind the scene and a 26-strong cast onstage, the presentation outwardly takes the form of a conventional opera, with a narrator, a line-up of leads and chorus-plus-dancers driving the story. But this is no ordinary libretto, likewise the score. With rap, neo-classical, protest song and jazz elements, the result is an exhilarating blend which keeps one mesmerised for the 180 minute duration. And that’s without even mentioning the dancing. And the costumes. And the text and visual video projections. And the taut direction, and the spot-on musical management and, and …
Nkoli: The Vogue Opera tells the tale of queer and anti-apartheid activist Simon Nkoli, who fought for an end to both racial and sexual discrimination, and was part of the seminal group of LGBTQI+ people who ensured that the South African constitution is one of the most progressive documents in the world, as far as sexual orientation is concerned. The opera traces his roots and coming out in Sebokeng, the growth of his long-time relationship with Roy Shepherd, his arrest and detention for “treason”, his partnership with activist Bev Ditsie, his leadership of the first Pride march in South Africa, and his role in HIV/AIDS activism.
A big, gay smile
Sung in both English and Xhosa, Nkoli is as much a visual spectacle as a musical delight, an utterly original creation which at the same time pays its dues to the singing traditions of the struggle and the fabulosity of drag balls. While literally every person and musician on the stage catches the eye, performances by Niza Jay as the Emcee, Nokuthula Magubane as Bev Ditsie, Ann Masina as Simon’s Mom and Simbone Qonya in the title role particularly stand out, as much for their vocal prowess as their charismatic presence.
Before the show, I overheard an (older) person explaining to a (younger) person who Simon Nkoli was, and why he’s important. And I am just so, so happy that Philip Miller and all the other people involved in presenting this unique production, did so. Because this is a slice of history, yes, and should be as known to South Africans as much as they know about Sharpeville, and the Women’s March, and more. But also because it is so appropriately, unapologetically and joyously queer. Despite the seriousness and even sadness of the content, you cannot help coming out with huge satisfaction in your heart. And a big, gay smile on your face.
What: Nkoli: The Vogue Opera
Where and when: Baxter Theatre from 9 October to 19 October 2024
Tickets: Webtickets
WS
