Comedy Theatre, Melbourne
October 4, 2018

Starting in 2016 as a French production directed by Pierre-Yves Duchesne, Madiba the Musical’s first English-language production makes its debut in Australia under the direction of Dennis Watkins. The mostly local cast sings well, but in a show whose words and music are short on inspiration, they have limited material to work with. It’s surprising, even disappointing, that the powerful true story of the political struggle of Nelson Mandela and South Africa’s black majority could have such limited emotional impact on stage.

Perci Moeketsi, Tim Omaji and Tarisai Vushe and cast. Photo supplied 

Madiba, Mandela’s clan name, follows his fight for justice, beginning in the 1950s when he was one of South Africa’s few black lawyers. Representing his people in a justice system biased against the black majority, he turns to political activism and is imprisoned for life. During decades of incarceration, his patience and wisdom, and ability to inspire far beyond the prison walls, are revealed. After finally being released, Mandela becomes South Africa’s first black, democratically elected president.

He is presented as an inspirational figure rather removed from everyday practicalities and passions. His wife, Winnie, is even...