KATANGA, JANUARY 17: UNVEILING THE LEGACY AND AFTERMATH OF A REVOLUTIONARY’S ASSASSINATION, PATRICE LUMUMBA
Patrice Lumumba, a key figure in the fight for Congo’s independence from Belgian colonial rule, remains an important part of African liberation and anti-imperialism. His brief tenure as Congo’s first democratically elected Prime Minister and his tragic assassination in 1961 continues to inspire artistic and political discourse. Portraying Lumumba’s life and the enduring impact he has on global history, a new play titled ‘Katanga’ is set to premiere at the Market Theatre on the 7th of September 2024.
According to the Collins Dictionary, Katanga means “a region of SE Democratic Republic of the Congo: site of a secessionist movement during the 1960s and again in 1993; important for hydroelectric power and rich mineral resources (copper and tin
ore).” Written by Lesego Rampolokeng and Bobby Rodwell, the play explores Lumumba’s assassination and the aftermath of it all in Congo – particularly focusing on Lumumba’s Pan African vision.
One of the characters, or should we say playing 3 characters is award-winning actress and director, Khutjo Green. The talented creative will not only be playing 3 characters in the play, she’s also the director of the play. If there’s anyone who understands the intricacies of the play, it’s definitely her. She has the opportunity to get creative and direct from outside looking in. She plays the characters of Patrice Lumumba’s wife, Pauline Lumumba, Juliana Lumumba, his daughter, and Maurice Mpolo, one of the gentlemen who were assassinated alongside Lumumba.
A Director with a Vision
Khutjo Green is well-known for her ability to bring complex narratives to life on stage, and this project is no exception. With a deep understanding of Lumumba’s significance, she was initially brought in as an actress and later to play the role of a director. Their direction is focused on highlighting the emotional and political turmoil of the era, ensuring that the play does justice to Lumumba’s profound impact on African independence movements.
When asked what drives her, she responded “what drives me is the responsibility that we have as theatre makers, in as much we cannot change much, but I do think we can affect and impact. I think then the change begins within the person that gets to witness our work.” Khutjo’s drive for theatre translates to the drive Lumumba had in fighting for Congo’s independence, his impact is widespread in the African continent to this day.
The talented creative (Khutjo Green) playing 3 pivotal characters in the play allows for a dynamic exploration of Lumumba’s relationships and the forces that shaped his life and legacy. She also gives flowers to her fellow colleagues who make balancing 3 characters and being a director a seamless process.
I’ve managed to ask my stage manager to step in for me so that I’m locking in my movements and lines, which has been helpful to have other bodies that are able to step in when needed.”
The controversy lies in Lumumba’s assassination
When asked about the character of Lumumba and the inspiration behind the creation of ‘Katanga’, Khutjo says “this is a person that was really concerned about his people, beyond his people and Congo, he was concerned about Africa as a whole. He acknowledged and knew the power Africa holds, in terms of minerals and resources. He was not just a prime minister or a visionary, he was in many ways a philosopher.” She further adds that Lumumba’s character was not controversial, but the true controversy lies in how he was brutally assassinated.
THE PLAY
The production and cast of ‘Katanga’ bring to light the story of Patrice Lumumba, highlighting more than just a historical retelling; but a living, breathing experience that resonates with the struggles and triumphs of today. As the curtain rises, audiences can expect to be taken on a journey that is as thought-provoking as it is emotionally charged.
If you appreciate theatre that challenges, inspires, and educates, this production of Patrice Lumumba’s story ‘Katanga’ is not to be missed. It’s a rare opportunity to witness greatness at its best, this play is set to take centre stage from the 7th to 22nd of September at the Market Theatre, book your tickets now.
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