Compelling Production, ‘Graveland’, Depicts the Impact of Xenophobic Attacks on Families

The Market Theatre Laboratory and Lule Productions present ‘Graveland’, a deeply relevant, cutting-edge and urgent work that advocates for unity among Africans, calls out xenophobic rhetoric and humanises immigrants. Staged in partnership with Lule Productions, ‘Graveland’ will grace the Ramolao Makhene Theatre at The Market Square from 29 May to 1 June 2025. The play is a continuation of The Market Lab’s Africa month artistic celebration, which began with ‘Uhambo Lwamakhehla’, a pan-African dance production that played from 9 – 11 May 2025.

‘Graveland’ follows the journey of Butana, an African immigrant whose pursuit of a better life tragically leads him to a violent xenophobic attack. The story unfolds through the eyes of his brother, Rafael, who must return home to deliver the devastating news, igniting a perilous journey back to South Africa to reclaim Butana’s spirit. This tale reveals the raw realities of their struggles, while offering a profound exploration of grief, identity, and the quest for belonging.

The play is co-written and co-directed by Thembeni Joni and Lunga Khuhlane, alongside the creative team of Sinenhlanhla Prince Mgeyi as movement director, Sinenhlanhla Q. Zwane as production designer and Siyabonga Zwane as a stage manager, as well as Tshegofatso Sethole, Mongezi Yumba and Thokozani Nsibande behind the music.

The cast is made up of Allen Cebekhulu, Maurice Abongile Matyutyu, Dineo Sello, Confidence Mamzo Lukhele, Lucky Thami Gxubane, Mirembe Catalina Namayanja, Thokozani Maseko and Lunga Khuhlane.

Production manager, Relebohile Mabunda, believes ‘Graveland’ will have a lasting impact on audiences. “Beyond its emotional depth,” states Mabunda, “this play serves as a powerful vehicle for change, fostering understanding and compassion. It invites audiences to grapple with the complexities of identity, belonging, and the societal responsibilities we share as citizens of a diverse continent. The play’s exploration of personal stories against the backdrop of systemic challenges creates an impactful experience that lingers long after the curtain falls.”

According to Mabunda, the script seeks to strike a balance between victims and perpetrators, arriving at an important point of deep reflection. “By presenting this dual perspective, the play challenges audiences to confront uncomfortable truths and reconsider the vision of an inclusive Africa. It exposes systemic failures and collective inaction, compelling viewers to ask themselves: Is this the South Africa we aspire to be?”

Cherae Halley, Head of The Market Theatre Laboratory, says they’re excited to stage ‘Graveland’ at the Ramolao Makhene Theatre, a space named after an iconic drama teacher and performer with a passion for unlocking fresh ideas and developing them into new, bold statements.

Don’t miss ‘Graveland’—a visually and emotionally compelling production at the Ramolao Makhene Theatre, scheduled to perform as follows: Thursday, 29 May 2025 at 19:00; Friday, 30 May 2025 at 19:00; Saturday, 31 May 2025 at 19:00; Sunday, 1 June 2025 at 15:00.

Tickets are available on Webtickets at R120.

ENDS.

The Market Theatre Laboratory is a Division of The Market Theatre Foundation, an agency of the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture.

For media enquiries, please contact Bongiwe Potelwa (Publicist at the Market Theatre Foundation) at bongiwep@markettheatre.co.za or (011) 832 1641.

For reduced price block bookings of 10 or more and school groups, contact Anthony Ezeoke (Audience Development Officer at The Market Theatre Foundation) at anthonye@markettheatre.co.za or 083 246 4950.