Nambitha Mpumlwana cast as Winnie Mandela in new play

Nambitha Mpumlwana cast as Winnie Mandela in new play

After a break from the small screen following the Generations controversy in 2014, Nambitha Mpumlwana is back and she is exploring diverse roles in film.

The seasoned actress now steps into the shoes of Winnie Mandela in the star-studded theatrical production, The Cry of Winnie Mandela, featuring talents like Rami Chuene, Ayanda Sibisi, Siyasanga Papu, Pulane Rampoana, and Les Nkosi.

In an exclusive chat with ZiMoja, Nambitha tells all about her meticulous preparation for the iconic role. She explained that she had dug into her history and watched videos, but at the end of the day, she has to bring her to life in her own way.

“I studied some of her history and videos. In the end though, I have to create her anew,” she explained.

SHE NEVER STOPPED ACTING

Despite her absence from soap operas and daytime TV, she’s been taking on unique challenges, from playing a 200-year-old woman in a futuristic podcast alongside Thapelo Mokoena to starring in The Kingdom mini-series, delving into Bible parables and tales of faith, hope, and self-realization. According to her, even though it’s been a while since she hit the stage, she had never quite stopped acting at all.

“It has been a while since I worked on this stage, but I never stopped acting professionally or otherwise,” she stated to ZiMoja.

BASED ON NJABULO NDEBELE’S NOVEL 

The Cry of Winnie Mandela is based on the novelist and poet Njabulo Ndebele’s acclaimed 2003 novel also titled “The Cry Of Winnie Mandela.”

The Cry of Winnie Mandela is not just a play; it’s an immersive journey through history, emotion, and the strength of a political leader. Directed by the talented Kgomotso ‘Momo’ Matsunyane, this production will reveal the stories of women who endured the long wait for their men—be it from exile, mines, or political imprisonment.

One such woman is the legendary Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, who patiently waited for 27 years for the release of the global peace icon Nelson Mandela. As these women think about their decisions and explore how waiting has affected them, the play initiates deep and meaningful conversations which peel back the intricate layers of their experiences.