TV personality Thembisa Mdoda is set to take center stage in the highly anticipated play The Cry of Winnie Mandela, which will run at The Market Theatre from February 26 to March 23, 2025. The production is an adaptation of Njabulo S. Ndebele’s novel, bringing a powerful and emotional journey to life through the stories of South African women.
The news of Mdoda’s casting was shared by the director, MoMo Matsunyane, who expressed her excitement: “INTRODUCING THE INCREDIBLY TALENTED @thembisamdoda IN THE ROLE OF WINNIE!!! I am thrilled to have her on our team.” Matsunyane, who is known for her exceptional work in theatre, further shared her enthusiasm on social media: “Today is our first preview at the @baxtertheatre and we cannot contain our excitement. We look forward to having all of you with us. The run ends on the 15th of February and then continues at the @markettheatre from the 26th Feb-23rd March. Tickets are already selling like crazy so book yours now to avoid missing out! WHAT A GIFT IT IS TO TELL STORIES FOR A LIVING.”
The Cry of Winnie Mandela is a compelling and emotional piece, focusing on the stories of four women reflecting on their lives during the absence of the men they love. The play explores themes of waiting, longing, and resilience, while intertwining humour and deep emotional moments. At its core, the production is about the strength of the South African female spirit, particularly through the lens of Winnie Mandela’s experiences.
Based on the celebrated novel by poet and essayist Njabulo Ndebele, the play is adapted for the stage by Alex Burger and directed by MoMo Matsunyane, the current Standard Bank Young Artist Winner for Theatre. The narrative takes the audience through a series of intimate conversations between the four women, revealing the isolation, longing, and emotional complexity that defined their experiences during a tumultuous period in South Africa’s history.
Through their dialogue, the women reflect on the profound impact of their shared struggles, especially during the long years of waiting for their men to return. The play touches on the personal toll of this wait, drawing connections between their lives and the historical significance of Winnie Mandela’s own sacrifices and resilience.
Thembisa Mdoda, known for her work in TV and film, brings a wealth of experience to this important role. With an Honour’s degree in Dramatic Arts, Mdoda has showcased her talent in popular films such as Baby Mamas, as well as in hit drama series Unmarried and the horror series Dam. She also made a name for herself as the TV presenter of Our Perfect Wedding.
The production promises to be an emotionally charged and thought-provoking exploration of love, sacrifice, and endurance, offering a powerful reflection on the role of women in South Africa’s history. The central theme of waiting allows the audience to connect the historical struggles of these women with their own lives, drawing universal parallels that resonate across time and culture.
