uMqhele
The Voice of the Unheard
Theatre / Amazwi

Thembi is young woman who decided to straighten her hair. In doing so, she invoked an anger in her father that she never knew existed. That in turn results in her having to explain to the very woman who taught her what being a woman means, the reason she made the decision. She is reminded that she does not belong to herself.

Production Credits

Sindisiwe Motshwene, Flab April, Mpho Maisa, Bongani Mashinini, Pretty Malindi, Lerato Sello, Thato Sello, Poula Ndlovu

About the Artists

Sindisiwe Prudence Motshwene is a performing artist driven by a profound sense of self-discovery and a passion for artistic expression. Her journey in the performing arts began in 2003 with school plays and poetry performances, quickly gaining recognition at the district level. After a hiatus, she returned to the stage in 2018, joining the production "Total Tranquility." This re-engagement ignited a passion for scriptwriting, leading her to co-write "Moment of Silent" in 2019. Motshwene further honed her skills through performances in Bongani Mashinini's "Parables of a Black Man" and Modesana Mabala's "Lehe Lakganyapa" (in partnership with ASSITEJ) in 2021.

That same year, she showcased her writing and directing talents, with her poems performed at the Ishashalazi Provincial Festival by the Voices of the Unheard. In 2022, she participated in Monde Mayephu's "The Write Stuff" scriptwriting and directing program, and in 2023, her play "The Bar" was performed at the Ishashalazi Theatre Festival.

She also expanded her skillset through playback theatre training with Drama for Life and Wits University, and performed in Oliver Fichter's production, directed by Isaac Sithole, followed by participating in the National Arts Festival in 2023 with the production "Location." Most recently, Motshwene wrote and directed "Umqhele," which won the Gauteng Women Festival in 2024 and was subsequently showcased at the Ishashalazi Women National Festival in Durban, marking a significant achievement in her burgeoning career. 

  • Venue: Amazwi
  • Location: Amazwi South African Museum of Literature
  • Ticket price: ZAR 80.00
  • Programme type: The Fringe
  • Genre: Theatre
  • Duration: 50 minutes
  • Ages: 16+
    • M - MATURE CONTENT
    • Strong Language
Amazwi
June 26, 2025 10:00 - 10:50
Amazwi
June 28, 2025 16:00 - 16:50
Amazwi
June 30, 2025 20:00 - 20:50