When two Free State creatives with a passion for meaningful storytelling come together, the result is a production that aims to entertain while sparking important conversations.
Acclaimed theatre-maker and filmmaker Jane Mpholo has teamed up with Bloemfontein-born actor Katleho Mabote for Bahumi and His Magical Voice, a new production for children aged six and older that will debut at the Free State Arts Festival this week.
Directed by Mpholo and Rondo MpitiSpies, the production stars Mabote in the lead role alongside University of the Free State Drama and Theatre Arts students Mosa Nyelele, Imitha Fotoyi, Dian van Wyk, Mihle Qangani and Kutloano Motsei, with Reitumetse Matokoane as stage manager. For Mpholo, the collaboration brings together two creatives committed to using theatre as a tool for reflection and connection. The production also marks her second professional theatre work created specifically for young audiences at the festival.
At the heart of the story is a message inspired by Mpholo’s own experiences as a mother of twins. “We tend to be kinder and gentler towards girls, while often placing unfair expectations on boys to be strong and unshaken. This makes it difficult for the boy to communicate and process their emotions. This playful, but impactful, production creates a safe platform for awareness, reflection, conversations and the crucial change needed in a world where the boy bottles emotions and later explodes, taking their anger and frustrations out on others,” said Mpholo.
Through storytelling, music and imagination, the production encourages children to express their emotions freely and reminds audiences vulnerability is not a weakness but a strength. Mabote, who rose to prominence through his role in Outlaws, brings his own perspective to the production. His portrayal of Bahumi reflects the emotional challenges many young boys face, making the character both relatable and authentic for young audiences. Mpholo said the partnership demonstrates what is possible when local artists combine their talents to tell stories that matter.
By bringing together their creative strengths, the production celebrates Free State talent while creating a space where families can engage in conversations about emotional wellbeing and gender expectations. Produced by the Free State Arts Festival in collaboration with Jane Mpholo Pty Ltd, Bahumi and His Magical Voice promises an uplifting theatre experience that blends imagination with a message that resonates long after the curtain falls.
Catch it at the festival on 9-11 July. Tickets available from Webtickets.
