The Durban University of Technology’s drama students recently hosted the first BLVQ PRINT PROD ART FESTIVAL at the Courtyard Theatre on Ritson Campus on Saturday, 26 July 2025. The aim of the festival was to showcase the hidden talents of black children, with goals that including promoting creativity, fostering diversity, and providing a platform for young artists to express themselves. With various directors bringing their unique visions to the table.
Zamokuhle Zuma, a third-year student, founded the BLVQ PRINT PROD ART FESTIVAL in 2024, and the festival came to life in 2025 with the theme Talent Matters. The event featured four shows, including Echoes Within by Londiwe Hlatshwayo, The Shadow, The Curse by Zinhle Maphumulo, and Fractured Bond by Zamokuhle Zuma which was also assisted in direction by Lungisani Ngcobo who is a third-year drama student.
All the shows were entertaining and served educational purposes, bringing students together. Acting is not just about performing, it’s about conveying a message to the audience and raising awareness about social issues, community challenges, and global concerns.
Fractured Bond was a thought-provoking production that highlighted the dangers of excessive wealth and the corrupting influence of power, particularly when it runs through family ties. Zuma shared that through Fractured Bond, he had showcased his writing skills and brought his unique vision to life on stage. He added that the play explored the complications of privilege, entitlement, and the moral compromises that can come with unchecked power. He further stated that by sharing this story, he aimed to spark important conversations about accountability, values, and the true cost of ambition.
“Having my parents watching my shows was an incredible experience. For the longest time, my craft was not showcased to anyone, so it was a turning point for me. This experience created lasting memories, as my parents got to witness the work of their son come to life on stage,” he said.
He also mentioned the protagonist, Nsika, played by Sbongiseni Maphumulo, and the antagonist, Ncayiyane, played by Niwakhe Jama, as well as other talented cast members, including Lindo Hlengwa and Mlondolozi Ncayiyane.
Amanhle Ngobese, a third-year student and cast member of the show, shared her experiences and challenges while portraying a complex character. She found it particularly difficult to play an evil woman, given her Christian background. However, Ngobese embraced the challenge and did her best to fit into the character’s shoes. Despite the difficulties, she described the overall experience as amazing and fun.
The festival was attended by award-winning student Lindani Msibi, who brought an extra layer of excitement to the event. Zuma expressed his gratitude to the DUT students for attending the festival, stating that it was a successful first-time event. He also looked forward to host future editions of the festival with even more shows and performances involved, promising an even more spectacular experience for audiences.
Pictured: The cast members of Fractured Bond and the director Zamokuhle Zuma.
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
