The Makwerhu Arts Company is set to enchant young audiences at the ‘Reading is a Celebration’ festival with a production that is far more than simple entertainment. Their show, “Ngungunhane and the 3 Brothers,” promises a masterful blend of imaginative play and historical discovery, offering a unique gateway for children to engage with Mozambique’s rich past.
This theatrical journey begins in a familiar, modern setting: a home transformed into a playful battlefield by four energetic siblings. The frantic cleanup before their mother’s arrival is a relatable scenario that immediately draws in young viewers. However, the discovery of “magical objects” during this tidy-up serves as a brilliant narrative device. It symbolizes how history is often found in the everyday artifacts and stories we uncover, turning a mundane chore into a portal to adventure.
The transport to the Gaza Empire is where the show provides its unique educational value. The Gaza Empire (c. 1824–1895) was a powerful kingdom that dominated much of southern Mozambique. Introducing children to this pre-colonial era is crucial, as it counters a historical narrative often dominated by the colonial period. Meeting its kings and warriors allows young minds to envision a landscape of sovereign states, complex political structures, and rich cultural traditions long before European maps were drawn.
The central figure, the “mysterious Ngungunhane” (also known as Gungunhana), is a pivotal and complex historical character. As the last emperor of Gaza, he led a fierce resistance against Portuguese colonial forces in the late 19th century before his eventual capture and exile. The show’s choice to present him as “mysterious” is apt; it opens a door for parents and educators to discuss themes of leadership, resistance, and the bittersweet chapters of national history in an age-appropriate way. The production likely explores these heavy themes through metaphor, song, and humor, making them accessible.
The promise of “laughter and discoveries” is key to its methodology. By framing history as an active, fun-filled exploration rather than a list of dates and facts, the Makwerhu Arts Company employs a proven pedagogical approach. Children learn best through play and narrative. When they laugh with the characters who are navigating this historical world, they build an emotional connection to the story, ensuring the lessons about cooperation, curiosity, and heritage are deeply felt and remembered.
Ultimately, “Ngungunhane and the 3 Brothers” is more than a children’s play. It is a creative act of cultural preservation and identity-building. It teaches that history is not a distant, static subject but a living story found in our homes, our play, and our collective memory. It empowers a new generation to see themselves as descendants of kings and warriors, fostering pride and a tangible connection to their heritage.
(Catch this insightful performance on December 6th, at 10:00 AM at the Fernando Leite Couto Foundation.)
This article expands upon an original report. Full credit goes to the original source. We invite our readers to explore the original article for more insights directly from the source. (Source: cartamz.com)