The Market Theatre presents The Gibson Kente Music Tribute, remembering iconic South African playwright Gibson Kente with a star-studded line-up that includes gospel songstress Gugu Mbongwa, and Xolisile Bongwana from Vuyani Dance Theatre.

Lauded as the father of township theatre, playwright, producer and director Kente was born in Duncan Village, a township outside East London in the Eastern Cape. He originally studied social work before abandoning it for his passion for drama and headed to Joburg at the age of 23. Without any formal training he wrote his first play, the musical Manana, The Jazz Prophet in 1963, presenting it to mass township audience support and approval. During his prolific career he produced 23 plays and three television dramas, penning songs for South African music legends such as Miriam Makeba and Letta Mbulu, training renowned musicians such as Hugh Masekela and helping to launch the careers of others such as legend Brenda Fassie. 

Performance starts at 20:00. Performances on April 15 and 29 at 15:00.