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Beverley Brommert
Vibrant, vivid and uplifting NKOLI: THE VOGUE OPERA is a spectacular piece of music theatre that captures the heart of its audience at the outset - and does not let go until the last note of music has died away two and a half hours later.
NKOLI: THE VOGUE OPERA traces the life, times and passions of activist Simon Nkoli, for whom political freedom from the iron clamp of apartheid was inseparable from the personal freedom to follow one's natural sexuality. Respect for humanity is the common denominator uniting the two, and Nkoli fought with courage and determination to effect a much-needed change of mindset in the society of his day.
Being black and gay in the latter part of the 20th century did not conduce to an enviable life, as prejudice and persecution (from one's own family included) relentlessly tested the mind, heart, and soul of the person in question.
Nkoli proved resolute, true to himself until his untimely death from AIDS.
This notable production brings his experiences to the stage with infectious energy as the sizeable cast of vocalists, dancers, musicians, and actors combine forces in tribute to a brave spirit.
Deft direction from John Trengove and Rikki Beadle-Blair keeps delivery of a potentially top-heavy agenda at a pace to obviate tedium; casting of major roles is judicious; the calibre of vocal and instrumental performance more than meets the requirements of Philip Miller's challenging score.
However, it is the scintillating costume design that lifts NKOLI: THE VOGUE OPERA to memorable heights. For variety, eye-catching textures, brilliance of colour and an originality bordering on the outrageous, the array of garments sported by the performers is hard to beat. Sikelela Mr Allofit and Birrie Roux have outdone themselves in this regard.
Like the costumes, Rocco Pool's set design is also highly imaginative, manipulating space to accommodate the need for maximum mobility of action as Nkoli's biography is charted from boyhood to death.
Dance-wise, the vogue style is presented with confident brio as arm movements and percussive heels respond to the rhythm of the music.
Niza Jay, unfailingly glamorous as the fluent Emcee, Simbone Qonya, quietly authoritative as the eponymous lead, and Bongani Kubheka, a powerful stage presence in the role of activist Gcina Malindi, stand out among the large cast. The latter exhibit collective versatility by slipping in and out of diverse roles with apparently effortless efficiency.
This is a production of lustrous staging to match the warmth of its affirmation: that every human being has a right to live life in freedom and dignity, regardless of sexual orientation or racial origin.
You have until 19 October 2024 to see NKOLI: THE VOGUE OPERA at the Baxter Theatre’s Flipside. Tickets can be booked online through Webtickets.