Local theatre production, Pula The Musical, has been nominated for the 1st Independent Theatre Makers Awards in South Africa.
The musical, which had its debut play in November 2023 at the South African State Theatre, has been nominated in four categories namely, Best Lead in a Musical, Best Music Composer, Best Costume Design, and Best Musical. One of the highlights of the nominations is former Miss Botswana Palesa Molefe, who joined the cast last year, being individually nominated for Best Lead in a Musical. Additionally, Simphiwe Sikhakhane and Pesalema Motshodi have been nominated for Best Music Composer. The 1st Independent Theatre Makers Awards, set to take place on February 10 at the Moses Molelekwa Art Centre in South Africa, aim to celebrate creativity and innovation in the world of independent theatre.
Andrew Kola, the director of production said that Pula The Musical not only captures and celebrates the intangible cultural heritage of the Batswana people but also highlights the talent of Botswana artists. The nominations for Best Lead Actress, Best Music Composition, Best Musical, and Best Costume Design are a testament to the exceptional quality of the production. “Being nominated for the 1st Independent Theatre Makers Awards is a big achievement for us because it shows that what we are doing have an impact on Southern Africa,” Said Kola. He further explained that through this play they wanted to show people Botswana’s culture; how they connect with rain in a different way.
