Edward Tsumele

Edward Tsumele

In a move that shows the consolidation of her career as a solo artist, Ntsiki Mazwai is headed to the stages of the Market Theatre Laboratory for a two-day solo performance.

Mazwai who released her solo album Mamiya last year, is this time around reciting poetry as well as dishing commentary on a wide range of issues on stage. The show is called Ntsiki Mazwai Speaks.

One of the most significant voices on youth poetry in the country, her performances on February 14 and 15 are expected to attract poetry lovers, especially the youth at the Market Theatre Laboratory in Newtown.

Mazwai's poetry is regarded by some as informed feminist philosophy and one that articulates the needs, fears and achievements of the black youth in cosmopolitan South Africa.

After seven years in the poetry game, this will be Mazwai's first one-woman show. It will start at 8pm.

In her poetry, Mazwai articulates the mind of a young black woman living in the post apartheid era.

She talks about her views, opinions and disappointments of living in an imperfect world.

It covers themes ranging from politics, the spirit, love and women.

Mazwai's fans will get to reminisce and witness her growth when she puts her repertoire on stage and recites her old gems such as, Love in Soweto and Qhawekazi. The audience will also sample some of her new works such as Weak and Siyabangena.

Mazwai said Ntsiki Speaks is about entertainment with value. "It's for entertainment that challenges the mind and spirit. It's for supporters of local arts and culture and people who love poetry and music."

Ntsiki Speaks is written by Mazwai and directed by Galetlolwe Semenya and Bibi Moeketsi. Mncedisi Shabangu helped Mazwai produce some of her poems.