29 Jan 2024

Local theatre production Pula The Musical has received an impressive nomination for the 1st Independent Theatre Makers Awards.

Following its showcase on Broadway and debut in November 2023 at the South African State Theatre, Pula The Musical has been nominated in four categories: Best Lead in a Musical, Best Music Composer, Best Costume Design, and Best Musical.

Former Miss Botswana Palesa Molefe, who joined the cast last year, has been individually nominated for Best Lead in a Musical, while Simphiwe Sikhakhane has been nominated for Best Music Composer.

The Independent Theatre and Dance Awards, scheduled for February 10 at the Moses Molelekwa Art Centre in South Africa, aim to celebrate creativity and innovation in the world of independent theatre. The event features 20 distinct categories covering theatre and dance productions and recognizes talent produced from April to November 2023.

Social media has been abuzz with excitement, with Palesa Molefe sharing her nomination on Instagram, and fans expressing their congratulations for the cast’s achievement.

One fan, Mia Polan, expressed, that being nominated is a win. You must have awed the South African audience with your performance to be nominated for four categories. Congratulations!”

Following the news, Batho Motlhake, a creative photographer, extended congratulations to the cast while Kitso Matsake, part of the production crew, remarked, “The year has just started and Pula The Musical already received recognition in South Africa. What a start!”

The production itself, Pula The Musical, presents a captivating blend of music, dance, and drama, telling the cherished tale of Pula, highly esteemed by the Batswana people. Directed by Andrew Kola, the production has a 30-member cast and a seven-piece band, with narration by Gabriel Modise. Its debut has garnered enthusiastic reviews, with some describing it as “an exhilarating production” and “a must-see electrifying event for theatre, music, and storytelling lovers.” News24 simply said, “Fall in love with the rich culture of Botswana.”

Pula The Musical not only captures and celebrates the intangible cultural heritage of Batswana people but also highlights the talent of Botswana artists.  ENDS