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17 - 19 November 2023
THE MARKET THEATRE
‘NKOLI: The Vogue-Opera’ tells the remarkable story of Simon Nkoli, a gay anti-apartheid South African freedom fighter and HIV activist imprisoned for four years on charges of treason during apartheid. He went on to organise the first gay pride march in Africa and ensure gay rights were enshrined in our democratic Constitution.
‘Nkoli: The Vogue-Opera’ has been in development for four years. Voguing, song, rap, lip-syncing, archival film, and sound are all used to celebrate Simon’s life and the fight for justice in South Africa.
This presents an opportunity to challenge the invisibility of queer identity and to supplement our incomplete history books with untold stories of those marginalised in our communities.
Nurturing an inclusive culture
We are proud to have played a contributing role in various workshops held with singers, musicians, and activists to help inform and craft this powerful story. We have since partnered with the team to host an exhibition of the photographs and videos that came out of these workshops.
At RMB we nurture a collective and inclusive culture, where all voices are heard and respected. Our partnership with ‘Nkoli: The Vogue-Opera’ demonstrates our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice.
GET TICKETS MORE ABOUT SIMON NKOLI
More about Simon Nkoli
A fearless activist and unsung hero, Nkoli played a pivotal role in the struggle for a free South Africa. He displayed a remarkable ability to bridge the gaps between marginalised communities. Recognising the importance of visibility and unity, he was among the first African activists to publicly disclose his homosexuality and fight for racial and LGBTQIA+ equality.
Arrested in 1984 for anti-apartheid activities, he used the famous Delmas Treason Trial as a platform to advocate for gay rights, highlighting the intersectionality of oppression. Imprisoned for four years, Nkoli confronted not only police violence but also the homophobia of his comrades.
He was instrumental in organising the first-ever Pride March in South Africa in 1990, which marked the turning point in the LGBTQIA+ movement. His bravery in facing potential backlash, violence and discrimination set a precedent for future Pride marches.
Nkoli’s relentless activism contributed to including LGBTQIA+ rights in South Africa’s constitution, making it the first country to ban discrimination based on sexual orientation. His enduring legacy inspires the pursuit of equality and human rights globally.
His life, sadly cut short in 1998, was a testament to the power of courage, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to justice.
