Gisbon Kente will be honoured for his contribution to stage with a musical staged at Soweto Theatre in December.
The father of black theatre, who died in 2004 of HIV/Aids-related illness, will be remembered when his music is reprised for the production.
The Musical Tribute to Gibson Kente will run for 10 days with a band and vocalists.
According to Joburg City Theatres marketing manager Khushu Koloti, Soweto Theatre decided to honour individuals who have made an impact in the local arts.
"Last year, it was the Manhattan Brothers. This year, we decided to honour the man who took township theatre to another level.
"Plays such as How Long, I Believe, and Too Late spoke to the heart of what indigenous people experienced under a repressive regime."
Kente produced about 26 productions which he used to influence the cultural, economic and political landscape of South Africa.
He was a director, producer, playwright, composer and choreographer of his plays.
Makhaola Ndebele, the artistic manager of Joburg City Theatres said: "Being the cardinal storyteller illustrating black pain, love and aspiration in the time of apartheid, it is with great pleasure to honour him."
Koloti added that they were planning a walk around Soweto on December 1 (World Aids Day), since Kente was killed by the disease. She confirmed that they were working on getting the family involved.
The show opens from December 7 to 17.
Musical in honour of the great Gibson Kente
Gisbon Kente will be honoured for his contribution to stage with a musical staged at Soweto Theatre in December.
The father of black theatre, who died in 2004 of HIV/Aids-related illness, will be remembered when his music is reprised for the production.
The Musical Tribute to Gibson Kente will run for 10 days with a band and vocalists.
According to Joburg City Theatres marketing manager Khushu Koloti, Soweto Theatre decided to honour individuals who have made an impact in the local arts.
"Last year, it was the Manhattan Brothers. This year, we decided to honour the man who took township theatre to another level.
"Plays such as How Long, I Believe, and Too Late spoke to the heart of what indigenous people experienced under a repressive regime."
Kente produced about 26 productions which he used to influence the cultural, economic and political landscape of South Africa.
He was a director, producer, playwright, composer and choreographer of his plays.
Makhaola Ndebele, the artistic manager of Joburg City Theatres said: "Being the cardinal storyteller illustrating black pain, love and aspiration in the time of apartheid, it is with great pleasure to honour him."
Koloti added that they were planning a walk around Soweto on December 1 (World Aids Day), since Kente was killed by the disease. She confirmed that they were working on getting the family involved.
The show opens from December 7 to 17.
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