Why Sarafina is still a relevant story for the youth of today
Noxolo Dlamini, pictured, will reprise her role as Sarafina in Mpho Molepo's interpretation of this iconic stage production. Image: supplied
The seminal stage production Sarafina is set to return this Youth Month. Helmed by the creative vision of Mpho Molepo, this production is still near and dear to the hearts of South Africans.
This lauded musical tells the story of the Soweto Uprising during the old regime. It follows Sarafina, a young girl from Soweto who covets freedom. Drawing on the wisdom of a teacher of hers, she urges her classmates to oppose the oppressive system they are being subjected to, which, among other things, is forcing them to be taught in Afrikaans.
The much-celebrated Mbongeni Ngema first directed and choreographed the original stage production in 1986. This premiered at the Market Theatre in Johannesburg in June 1987.
The vaunted film adaptation was rendered by Darrell James Roodt. He directed the 1992 film adaptation, which starred legends like Leleti Khumalo, Whoopi Goldberg, and Miriam Makeba.
Fast forward to 2025, and this production is back, but this time with the talented Molepo at the controls.
'It's humbling. Sarafina isn't just a musical, it's a national treasure. It captures a pivotal time in our history through music, movement, and spirit. To be entrusted with that legacy, especially on a stage as iconic as Joburg Theatre, is a privilege I don't take lightly. It's about balancing reverence for what came before while speaking to the now,' he said. COMPILING A CAST TO CARRY THIS WEIGHTY STORY
Molepo explained how casting this production was about finding voices that carried both strength and vulnerability.
'I was looking for performers who could live truthfully in their characters, not just act or sing well, but who understood the soul of the story. Each role demanded emotional depth, raw energy, and a commitment to telling the truth of our past with integrity.'
Reprising the lead role of Sarafina will be Noxolo Dlamini, whom Molepo couldn't be happier with.
'Noxolo brings fire to the stage and embodies Sarafina with such authenticity and command. She understands the complexity of the character: the hope, the defiance, the youthful spirit. She carries the legacy of Sarafina with grace but also injects a freshness that resonates with today's audiences. Her performance is both homage and evolution,' he fawned.
The story is a timeless offering, but one we have probably encountered more than once. With South Africa's youth still feeling the pressures of life in this nation, how does a director go about bringing this story into the modern era, while ensuring the essence of the story is not compromised?
'I think as a director, you're always reflecting what could be tighter, more resonant, more daring. If I had unlimited resources, I'd expand the immersive elements to bring audiences even closer to the world of the students, perhaps even break the fourth wall more often. But within our means, I'm proud of the emotional immediacy we've achieved.'
Molepo, a native of Orlando Soweto, said that striking a balance between the struggles of the youth back then and now is what he placed at the core of the work.
'We've incorporated contemporary staging, nuanced character dynamics, and visuals that resonate with today's struggles, youth unemployment, activism, and identity.
'The soul of Sarafina is timeless: the fight for justice, the power of youth, the resilience of spirit. We've just translated that spirit into a 2025 context without losing its historical pulse.'
With a story as adored as much as Sarafina , a changing of the guard or passing of the torch is always necessary. With that in mind, Molepo made sure to seek an audience with Mbongeni Ngema before he passed away in December of 2023.
'I've been fortunate to receive support and encouragement from voices who were part of the original magic. Mbongeni Ngema's blessing means everything, it affirms that we're on the right path, honouring the heart of Sarafina while also making it speak to now. Those conversations have grounded the work in legacy.'
This story is a rollercoaster of emotions. Soaring crescendos, existential conundrums and of course, subject matter that is still rooted in an abundance of trauma.
It is a concoction of emotions, but Molepo hopes you will find the offering uplifting.
'I hope audiences leave reminded of the strength and courage that lives in our collective memory—and that they feel inspired to keep the flame of change alive. Sarafina isn't just history—it's a mirror. As for its future, I see it continuing to evolve across languages, across borders, across mediums. It's a story that still has much to teach the world.'
Sarafina is currently showing at The Joburg Theatre until June 15.
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