My Long Lost Father tells the emotional story of Davide, a young man who sets out to find his roots after growing up not knowing his parents. Born from a one-night encounter between Patrick, a miner from Welkom, and Mavis, Davide was given away due to their poverty.
Years later, guided by recurring dreams of Nonzuzo, his half-sister in the rural village of Kwantu, Davide arrives in search of his identity. While some welcome him, Patrick’s wife, Thandazile, rejects him and sabotages a traditional ceremony meant to prove his lineage. Just as Davide is being cast out, Patrick returns and immediately recognises his son. The truth is revealed, and despite the betrayal, Davide chooses forgiveness and unity, expressing his deepest wish for a loving family.
Production Credits
Director | Malwande Menzile
Music Composer |Malwande Menzile
Written By | Xolela Mqumakhe and Malwande Menzile
Choreographed by | Daluxolo Mgweba and Malwande Menzile
Cast:
Luyanda Someleze Bhodla, Lihlilanga Gadudu, Shaniqua Mametja, Mbalenhle Nkosi, Likho Botha , Mpentshu Ayabonga, Cecilia Mhlanga, Gugulethu Zondo, Mbali Madikane,Hlumelo Sikuqana, Sibulelo Mcobothi, Xolela Nqumakhwe, Hlobisile Buhle Mabamba, Mokgwela Faithful Minenhle, Ngqwala Luzuko Vellem, Soyama Bonde, Daluxolo Mgweba
About the Artists
Malwande Menzile is a multi-talented South African actor, director, vocalist, and choreographer who has built a prominent reputation across both television and live theatre. He is a graduate of Walter Sisulu University (WSU) and serves as the Drama Director for the WSU Drama Society, dedicating much of his career to elevating authentic South African narratives. His career spans high profile television roles and award-winning stage productions.
Television & Screen Acting
Menzile successfully transitioned his performance skills to the screen, training in film and television production with Ulwazi Training and Development. His on-screen credits include:
Old buck Gin commercials advert: He is among the actors that were featured on the latest Old buck Gin commercial advert.
Gqeberha: The Empire: He reached nationwide audiences by playing the character Khura (Nomaflower's boyfriend) in Mzansi Magic's popular Eastern Cape-based telenovela.
The Revolution is Here: He starred in a prominent on-screen role as Chris Nzobe.
Theatre Acting & Choreography
Before cementing his role as a director, Menzile earned critical acclaim as a stage performer and vocalist.
Ghetto: The Music: He portrayed the role of the Mayor in this acclaimed stage production. His performance contributed to the show winning the prestigious Standard Bank Ovation Award at the National Arts Festival in 2022.
Theatre Directing Career
As a director, Menzile is widely known for leading the WSU Drama Society and bringing complex, socially relevant narratives to South Africa's premier arts platforms.
My Long-Lost Father (2025)
Guilty as Charged (2022): An original theatrical work he brought to life at the National Arts Festival.
Life of a Taxi Driver: Another original stage piece directed by Menzile.
- Venue: Rehearsal Room
- Location: Monument Building
- Ticket price: ZAR 50.00
- Programme type: The Fringe
- Genre: Dance & Physical Theatre
- Duration: 70 minutes
-
Ages:
ALL AGES
