When an artist’s journey is driven by purpose, every milestone feels like destiny unfolding. For Ntebo, a South African musical powerhouse blending African folk, jazz, Afro-soul, and her professional opera training , that destiny has led her to the Shakespeare Theatre Company in Washington, D.C. She is making her U.S. theatre debut in Kunene and the King, a powerful production that brings South Africa’s history and humanity to the world stage. Ntebo steps into this powerful narrative as the guiding spirit of Kunene and the King, using her music to embody the heart and soul of South Africa.
For Ntebo, joining the cast of Kunene and the King felt like a divine calling. Despite beginning her formal training at a later age, Ntebo was immersed in South African choral traditions from childhood, thanks to her mother, a soloist, and her father, a choir conductor. This deep-rooted musical foundation shaped her into the artist she is today. “The process that brought me to this production feels like it was meant to happen,” she reflects. “As an independent artist in the diaspora, I’ve been intentional about being an ambassador of my culture and my South African heritage. When the Shakespeare Theatre team reached out and mentioned that Ruben Santiago-Hudson wanted to speak with me, I knew this was a journey I had to take.”
And what a journey it has been. Sharing the stage with South African legend Dr. John Kani, the playwright and a titan of theatre is nothing short of a dream. “As a South African kid, I grew up admiring his work,” Ntebo says. “We come from the same province, speak the same language, and now, I get to stand beside him in a production that tells our country’s truth. It feels deeply spiritual.” Her role in Kunene and the King extends beyond performance—it is a responsibility to carry the voice of her people.
Kunene and the King is the brainchild of the Tony award winning Dr. John Kani, the playwright and an iconic figure in South African theatre. Known globally for his work in The Lion King (1994) and Black Panther (2018), Kani’s career has been dedicated to telling stories that confront apartheid and celebrate the resilience of his people.
Guiding this U.S. production is the acclaimed director and Tony Award-winning actor Ruben Santiago-Hudson. Known for his work on Lackawanna Blues and his dedication to amplifying Black voices, Ruben brings a deep reverence for storytelling. For Ntebo, working with him has been a transformative experience. “Ruben has created a space where my voice, my artistry, and my cultural knowledge are valued,” she shares. “His direction allows me to express my identity while shaping a production that is honest and powerful.”
The energy on stage is palpable. Everyone is deeply committed to telling this story with authenticity and respect for the culture. It has been such a rewarding experience for Ntebo to share the stage with such talented individuals, each of whom brings their rich background and perspective to the production.
One of the most compelling aspects of this production is its music, a rich, soulful blend rooted in the heart of South Africa. Ntebo worked closely with Ruben Santiago-Hudson to select songs that reflect the play’s emotional journey. “The music spans from the 1960s to the early 2000s,” she explains. “It tells the story of apartheid South Africa, our struggles, our resilience, and our joy.” From the iconic voices of Miriam Makeba to the late Sibongile Khumalo, the soundscape draws on artists who blended classical training with jazz, Afro-soul, and South African folk.
For Ntebo, these songs are more than just musical choices. They are metaphors for survival and hope. “Music has always been a powerful tool for South Africans,” she says. “It’s how we’ve resisted oppression, healed our wounds, and celebrated our victories. Through this production, that musical legacy lives on.”
The production has deeply resonated with both audiences and critics, earning widespread praise for its masterful execution. Reviewers have highlighted Santiago-Hudson’s remarkable control over the play’s tone and tempo, describing it as “sublimely executed.” Dr. John Kani and Dawid Minnaar deliver powerful performances, further elevating the production with their artistry.
Critics have also taken note of Ntebo’s captivating presence, with Anne Valentino of the Maryland Theatre Guide stating, “Scenes are punctuated by the songs of Ntebo (Isithunywa), incredibly entertaining and transportive, to say the least.” This play is not just a performance—it is a moment.
Being part of Kunene and the King has had a profound impact on Ntebo’s live album, Transkei to the World, released in the summer of 2024. The powerful themes of struggle, resilience, and the celebration of South African heritage that are central to the play have mirrored the themes in her music, creating a deeper connection between the two. Transkei to the World is a reflection of Ntebo’s journey, growth, and her passion for sharing South African heritage.
This opportunity to participate in such a powerful production has further fueled her passion to share the stories and music that represent her people. For those who haven’t yet experienced Transkei to the World, Ntebo invites them to listen to it now. The album is available on Bandcamp.
Ntebo stands at a defining moment in her career. This debut marks not only her arrival on the U.S. theatre scene but also a celebration of the culture and music that shaped her.
The production has been extended through March 23, 2025, at Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Klein Hall, a testament to the impact it has had on audiences. As MD Theatre Guide aptly put it, “This play is a moment”. One that lingers long after the final bow.
Don’t miss your chance to witness this extraordinary production. For more information and behind-the-scenes moments, visit Shakespeare Theatre’s Instagram.
