Experience Hungani Ndlovu's directorial debut in 'Musical Chairs' at Cape Town's Magnet Theatre

Hungani Ndlovu, a renowned actor and dancer, steps behind the director's chair for the first time with his directorial debut, Musical Chairs. This dance-theatre production transforms the simple act of playing a childhood game into a metaphor for the stresses of modern life, particularly those stemming from the digital world and social media pressures.

Ndlovu, who has a career spanning television, film, and performance, takes on multiple roles in the show. As director and executive producer, he also steps onto the stage, showcasing his versatile talents. The production runs at Cape Town's Magnet Theatre from August 19 to 23, following a previous season in Johannesburg.

The Locksmiths Collective and Rush Productions present Musical Chairs, a project created by two-time Naledi Award-nominated actor Ndlovu. The play delves into the universal desire for acceptance, connection, and belonging in an increasingly online world. It examines how digital relationships can shape our identities, friendships, romances, and sense of community.

Ndlovu's previous work as a director has expanded his creative scope while maintaining his presence in the cast. He is joined by talented performers Yemimah Jacobs, Jamie-Lee Jansen, Genesis Shirindza, as well as international stars Alain "Hurrikane" Lauture and Angela "Angyil" McNeal. The production blends South African street-dance styles like iPantsula and iBhujwa with global dance forms such as Hip Hop, Campbellocking, and Popping, all interwoven with contemporary and physical theatre.

At its core, Musical Chairs poses a profound question: what occurs when the music stops and there is no longer a place for you? The production explores this theme through themes of identity, relationships, community, and the fundamental human need for connection. The Johannesburg run of the show received positive reviews, with late comedian Ebenhaezer Dibakwane calling it "somewhere between a revelation and a revolution," and theatre director James Ngcobo praising its accessibility.

Musical Chairs will run from August 19 to 23 at Magnet Theatre, 1 St Michaels Road, Observatory, Cape Town, with performances starting at 7.30pm and 8.30pm. Tickets are priced at R199.95 and available through Webtickets.