The cast on stage with a performance by Candy TsaMaNdebele Mokwena who plays Queen Modjadji's stepmother Muyahabo.
Mzansi Magic held a premiere shindig for Queen Modjadji last night (11 July) in the build-up to its debut this Sunday 14 July at 20h00.
It was held at MonteCasino in Joziburg to a Balobedu theme, reflecting the culture of the series, and it starred a swanked-up cast.
Here's a taste of who was there:
Shell'licious Makoma Mohale who stars as Maselekwani a.k.a. Queen Modjadji I, the queen with rainmaking powers.
A quote from Makoma on the experience:
Makoma: “Playing this role has been an incredible journey, with its own challenges - but ultimately, a very rewarding experience.
Stepping into the shoes of such a powerful historical figure was a huge honour. Queen Modjadji's significance in history is immense, and the role allowed me to reconnect with my Balobedu roots in a deeply meaningful way.
It was challenging in the most amazing way.”
Masutang Hope Rasekele who plays Dzugudini, Queen Modjadji's mother who is a crucial part of Lobedu history - she's instrumental in saving the kingdom from a catastrophe of drought.
This from Masutang:
"I am originally Bolebedu, and seeing the story of my people on mainstream TV is beautiful and incredibly rewarding.
I grew up hearing stories of Queen Modjadji, and now we get to share her story with the world. It's important to tell our stories in our languages and preserve our cultures - that’s key to building a rainbow nation.
This series is educational, highlighting the importance of community and the harmonious coexistence of men and women in the olden days. Queen Modjadji’s story, especially in the Balobedu context, showcases these gender dynamics.
For me, this role is groundbreaking – I'm a young girl from a rural village, now walking red carpets."
Thabo Bopape who plays the Supreme Mambo / King of the Kharanga Kingdom who's obsessed with becoming the greatest rainmaker. He must race against time to fix his mistakes.
Thabo: “Mambo Mugodo is the last of the male Balobedu kings. He is father to the first Queen Modjadji, the first of the Rain Queens. He is a wonderful man, very caring and loving of his people.
In preparing for this role, I was very lucky that I love languages and that I happen to be Pedi. Khelovedu is a unique language.
Learning it wasn’t difficult, but it also wasn’t easy, either. The process turned out to be fun because it stretched me linguistically.”
Mudi Mudau who plays Khadikhulu, Queen Modjadji's aunt, head teacher and advisor.
Helen Lebepe plays Raisibe, who assists Queen Modjadji with a view into the real world of her people. She grows to become her confidante.
Lemogang Tsipa who plays... oh wait, no, he's a Shaka iLembe gategrasher
who wears his sunglasses at night, crashing with...
Nomzamo Mbatha.
Nomsa Philiso, CEO of General Entertainment at MultiChoice.
Aaron Moloisi and Lethabo "LeJoy" Mthathoto who hosted the evening.
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