UKZN Student Set to Perform in Lion King in Hong Kong

BY: .

UKZN Bachelor of Arts student, Ms Bonisile Ndlovu, has landed the role of Rafiki in the Lion King theatre production being staged in Disney World, Hong Kong.

Ndlovu was excited about leaving South Africa to star in the stage show.

Coming from a musical family and singing since the age of 11, Ndlovu’s first experiences of public performance were with a gospel music group called the Spiritual Healers, who would rehearse in a house in her neighbourhood. After years spent with them, she heard about the Lion King production.

‘Auditions were held in Durban for singers and actors to star in the theatre production of the acclaimed Disney movie. I had not watched the show or been involved in a production of this calibre, and my English was not anything to boast, having learned English all on my own. It’s just something in me just wanted to audition to see how far I could go.’

After continuing to audition unsuccessfully for many years, she was finally offered a role in the production this year and says she owes her success to God. ‘My family and friends are still in a state of total shock. I have had many disappointments over the years but today a new chapter has opened in my life.

‘This is an exciting opportunity and I want to spend as much time as I can in Hong Kong and other parts of the world, growing and honing my skills as a musician,’ said Ndlovu.

One of her friends, Ms Buyisiwe Khumalo wished her well on her journey and confessed that Ndlovu will be missed.

College Dean of Teaching and Learning Professor Nobuhle Hlongwa expressed her happiness at hearing that Ndlovu had landed a role in The Lion King. ‘We wish her all the best. When one door closes, another opens.’

Melissa Mungroo