The Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Student Drama Group has been selected to present its original production Wa Ratwa at the 2025 National Arts Festival Fringe Programme, from 26 June to 6 July in Makhanda, Eastern Cape.
Wa Ratwa is a thought-provoking theatrical piece written by SPU student Tshephang Mogale and directed by Mr Thapelo Tshite, the Drama Group Instructor. The play tackles the tension between traditional African beliefs and Christianity, exploring themes of family loyalty, spiritual conflict and ancestral duty.
The story begins with the funeral of Lethabo, whose family is in mourning. Their grief is interrupted by the arrival of Lerule, a sangoma, who declares that he has been sent by the ancestors to perform an urgent ritual. He warns the family matriarch, Patricia, that her rejection of her ancestral calling is what caused the deaths of her husband and child – and that her surviving son, Wa Ratwa, is in danger unless she accepts her spiritual gift. Caught between faith and culture, Patricia’s inner turmoil culminates in a powerful confession that forces the audience to confront questions of identity, belief, and sacrifice.
Dean of Student Affairs, Ms Nicole Morris, congratulated the SPU Drama Group, noting that the production adds a vital voice to the ongoing discourse around spirituality in higher education. “Wa Ratwa aims to contribute meaningfully to national conversations on spirituality within higher education. This achievement also reflects the importance of supporting the holistic development of our students, who are not only academically capable but also creatively gifted. It speaks to the value of co-curricular engagement in shaping our institutional culture,” she said.
In preparation for the National Arts Festival, the SPU Drama Group will stage a special on campus performance of Wa Ratwa for the SPU community on 7 May 2025 at the Exam Hall, Central Campus.
Lead Cast:
- Clyde Phahladira
- Reneilwe Mosikatsi
- Lona Siralarala
- Kgomotso Dilotsotlhe
- Relebogile Tamane
Supporting Cast:
- Khomotso Moela
- Paballo Mabaso
- Tumelo Botswetswe
- Leogang Kgaile
- Alwande Ngiba
- Joy Ramoshasha
- Boipelo Motlou
- Bethul Pholo
- Mihle Sompa – Dyantyi
This upcoming performance is a celebration of student excellence and cultural storytelling at the University. SPU is proud of this remarkable achievement by the Drama Group.
