The Rise and Fall of the African Gospel: Nongqawuse

A powerful musical theatre production by Mbongeni Moroke

East London,Eastern Cape,The Rise and Fall of the African Gospel:Nongqawuse is a compelling musical theatre work inspired by one of the most dramatic and controversial moments in African history.Set in the Eastern Cape between 1856 and 1857,the production revisits the prophecy of Nongqawuse and its profound impact on the Xhosa nation.

Created, written, and directed by Mbongeni Moroke, the production explores the collision of faith, prophecy, colonial pressure, and survival, asking urgent questions about belief, power, and consequence. Through music, movement, and storytelling, the play confronts the spiritual and historical tensions that reshaped a people’s destiny.

The production runs for 1 hour and 30 minutes and will be staged at the East London Guild Theatre from 23–26 February 2026.

The Rise and Fall of the African Gospel: Nongqawuse is both a historical reckoning and a contemporary reflection, offering audiences a deeply moving theatrical experience rooted in African memory and resilience.