“Okay. Take your time… We’re but subjects of
your imagination. Let your beautiful voice
guide us into your world.”
The National School of the Arts proudly presents the premiere of “Sho’t Left Broadway”, a new musical on an age-old theme of a talented young girl with a Broadway Dream. The young girl in this story is appropriately named Naledi – meaning “star.”
In the hands of leading creatives Duma Ndlovu, Lesego van Niekerk, and scriptwriter Tshepo Ratona, with musical direction by Siyanqoba Dlungwana and sets and costumes by Sarah Roberts and lighting by Denis Hutchinson, “Sho’t Left Broadway” is a showcase production of the National School of the Arts. The drama plays out in a liminal world between life and death and between auditioning and becoming a star.
With a rich musical tapestry of well-loved South African repertoire, “Sho’t Left Broadway” is a play about dreams and the complexities of success. It also presents touchstones of our rich South African musical heritage.
It moves from being gritty and urban to being deeply mystical. To unlock her destiny, Naledi is compelled to make peace with the past.
Relatable content passionately presented by a cast of 30 strong NSA learners from across the performing arts departments and featuring a student band, this production will leave the audience with a song in their hearts and hope for happy endings restored.
“Sho’t Left Broadway” forms part of the NSA’s Artists in Residence programme funded by the National Arts Council of South Africa and the Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme.
“Sho’t Left Broadway” will appeal to the young and old.
Sho’t left is derived from everyday South African ‘taxi lingo’. A commuter wanting a ride to a destination close by will say ‘Sho’t left, driver,’ meaning ‘I want to get off just around the corner.”
Sometimes the “Sho’t Left” is simply not possible.
Written by Tshepo Ratona
Directed by Duma Ndlovu and Lesego van Niekerk
Choreographed & Staged by: Lesego van Niekerk
Sets & Costumes by: Sarah Roberts
Lighting Design: Denis Hutchinson
Poster Design by: Vumile Mavumangwana
