13/07/2026
Press Release
Another season of Theatre in the Backyard.
Backyard Dance Theatre in collaboration with Azande Theatre village presents
“A Double”
“Mthuthuzeli - the comforter”
Concept & Direction by Thumeka Mzayiya
Performed by Lusanda Dayimani, Sanga Mabulu & Andiswa Anthony
Choreographed by Thumeka Mzayiya & the cast
“The Purposes” Written & Performed by Lwanda Sindaphi
Both shows Curated & Supervised by Mhlanguli George
“MTHUTHUZELI” meaning "The Comforter" is a powerful theatre-dance movement production that gives voice and gesture to silent grief. Through evocative physical storytelling, the work honours mothers whose stories are too often whispered rather than spoken. The production explores the profound experiences of mothers who have endured stillbirth, carrying the weight of babies they never had the chance to hold. It embraces the journeys of women who have experienced miscarriage, those who long for children, and mothers who have lost young children, celebrating a love that neither time nor loss can erase.
Through expressive movement, monologues and music , empty embraces, and reaching gestures, MTHUTHUZELI transforms unspoken pain into a shared act of remembrance, compassion, and healing. It is a tribute to the resilience of motherhood and the enduring bond between a mother and her child, regardless of how brief their time together may have been. At its heart, MTHUTHUZELI carries a message of affirmation, your motherhood is real, your love is real. Your love reached your child, even if your hands could not. You are, and will always be, a mother.
This moving production invites audiences into a deeply human experience of empathy, remembrance, and hope. Whether you have walked this journey yourself or wish to stand in solidarity with those who have, MTHUTHUZELI offers a space where grief is witnessed, love is honoured, and healing begins. Join us for an unforgettable theatrical experience that celebrates the strength of women, the power of memory, and the enduring comfort found in being seen, heard, and remembered. Secure your tickets and be part of this extraordinary journey of love, loss, and healing.
A second masterpiece
“The Purpose” Written & Performed by Lwanda Sindaphi
After a successful and sold-out run this year in January, we are proud to bring back this captivating masterpiece “THE PURPOSE”
Witty, enchanting, and romantically hypnotic, THE PURPOSE is a theatrical experience that journeys between the seen and the unseen, where love, destiny, and ancestral calling intertwine in unexpected ways. Set against the mystical backdrop of the ancestral world, the production follows a young man from Delft who is convinced he has found his soulmate. Day after day, he returns to a sacred circle, faithfully waiting for the woman he believes is destined for him. But as his devotion grows, his path is interrupted by powerful ancestral visions that blur the boundaries between the spiritual and the romantic.
Drawn deeper into a world where every sign carries meaning, he is faced with a life-changing question: Is he pursuing the love he has always dreamed of, or is he being called to fulfil a purpose far greater than himself?
THE PURPOSE explores the tension between love and destiny, the wisdom of the ancestors, and the courage it takes to embrace one's true calling.
Whether you joined us in January or are experiencing it for the first time, this is your opportunity to witness a production that has captivated audiences and sparked meaningful conversations. Rich in culture, emotion, and unforgettable performances. Don't miss the return of this celebrated production. Secure your tickets now and discover why THE PURPOSE continues to captivate audiences.
Prepare to be captivated. Backayard Dance Theatre presents a season of unforgettable productions that will move you, inspire you, and leave you talking long after the end of the show. Secure your tickets and experience theatre that stays with you.
This initiative is made possible with the generous support of the National Arts Council of South Africa.
