“Sho't Left Broadway": A Relatable and Inspiring Musical for All Ages. - Johannesburg

Mark your calendars for the premiere of "Sho't Left Broadway" presented by the National School of the Arts! From the 10th to the 12th of March, the Mandela at Joburg Theatre will be home to this exciting new musical. The play follows the story of Naledi, whose name means "star," as she pursues her dream of becoming a Broadway performer in a liminal world between life and death.

Don't miss this relatable and passionate production, which is part of the NSA's Artists in Residence program funded by the National Arts Council of South Africa and the Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme supported by the DSAC. "Sho't Left Broadway" is suitable for audiences of all ages and promises to leave you with a song in your heart and hope for happy endings.

Directed and choreographed by leading creative Lesego van Niekerk, with musical direction by Siyanqoba Dlungwana, additional performance coaching by Yamikani Mahaka – Phiri, sets and costumes by Sarah Roberts and lighting by Mandla Mtshali, "Sho't Left Broadway" is a showcase production of the National School of the Arts. The original text was written by Tshepo Ratona who has captured a heart-warming story in the Naledi narrative. 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.

Presented by a cast of 32 NSA learners who sing, dance and act and featuring a student band of 8 players, “Sho’t Left Broadway” explores the complexities of success and the importance of making peace with the past while also touching on the tragedy of talent unrealised and those who die before their time.

"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 and Choreographed by Lesego van Niekerk
Musical Direction Siyanqoba Dlungwana
Additional Performance Coaching and Musical Direction by Yamikani Tatenda Mahaka - Phiri
Sets & Costumes by: Sarah Roberts
Lighting Design: Mandla Mtshali
Poster Design by: Vumile Mavumangwana

The NSA and the creative team wish to thank Duma Ndlovu for helping to spark the creative fire and sharing his expertise so generously, and to all the composers whose work is featured in “Sho’t Left Broadway” – your music is once again the heartbeat of a new generation.

The National School of the Arts is a Gauteng Department of Education School of Specialisation in Performing and Creative Arts.