Varsity names studio after Mhlophe

15 May 2009 - 02:00
By unknown

Sne Masuku

Sne Masuku

World respected South African poet, storyteller, actress and writer Gcina Mhlophe has been honoured by the University of KwaZulu-Natal which has named a drama studio after her.

The refurbished studio now named Gcina Mhlophe Drama Studio at the university's Edgewood campus outside Durban is a lecture and performance venue.

University spokesperson Sejai Desai says Mhlophe's outstanding achievements will inspire students who will use the venue.

The studio is a small proscenium style theatre and performing arts studio with exhibition space, curtains, a new lighting system, soundproofing and a portable stage.

Over the years, Mhlophe has played a crucial role in promoting literacy in the rural areas by encouraging communities, especially children, to read poetry books.

She is the recipient of awards that include the Edinburgh Fringe First Award, the BBC Africa Service for Radio Award and the Josef Jefferson Award in Chicago for her play Have you Seen Zandile.

Mhlophe described the honour as "unbelievable and a blessing especially because I am still alive".