Lindani Msibi, a multi-award-winning young man artist from Newcastle, is once again making waves this time through his compelling theatrical production ISIGUQO, set to be staged on August 3rd at the DUT Courtyard Theatre.

Msibi is a drama student at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), currently pursuing his Advanced Diploma in Drama under the Faculty of Arts and Design, Department of Drama and Production Studies. He first enrolled at DUT in 2020 for a Diploma in Drama and Production Studies. His journey into drama was a natural calling, rooted in a passion for storytelling and expression. Although he initially dreamed of becoming a filmmaker, theatre captured his heart, and today, he is celebrated for both his theatre and film contributions.

ISIGUQO is a deeply personal and emotional production, inspired by true events. The story explores themes of grief, mourning, healing, and spiritual betrayal. “I was inspired to write ISIGUQO because it is based on true events, a story that many can relate to in our families,” said Msibi. ISIGUQO is a deeply personal and emotional production, inspired by true events.

“I was inspired to write ISIGUQO because it is based on true events, a story that many can relate to in our families,” said Msibi. At the centre of the plot is a shocking betrayal: a brother kills his own sibling and turns him into a zombie in order to gain leadership of a Zion church. The title ISIGUQO, which refers to a sacred prayer ritual in African spirituality, symbolises not only mourning and grief but also the potential for healing. “This show is about loss and the spiritual and emotional journeys we go through in dealing with that pain,” he explained.

Msibi’s journey at DUT has played a major role in shaping him as a creative professional. “Studying drama at DUT has sharpened my ability to network and socialise in the industry,” he said. Being able to stage ISIGUQO at the DUT Courtyard Theatre means a great deal to him. “It gives me the space to explore myself as an artist and to share a message that I believe can heal people,” he added. He hopes that his work will inspire other DUT students, particularly those in the arts, to embrace their creativity and believe in their ability to tell impactful stories. “This is a touching show that anyone can relate to. It shows other students what is possible.”

Receiving recognition from DUT and beyond has been a proud moment for Msibi. “Being recognised is something I have always wanted since I started at DUT. It feels good that people know my work, especially because I come from the film industry.” While the journey has been rewarding, it has not been without challenges. “The biggest challenge has been marketing the show, but the biggest reward is seeing people connect with it and begin to heal, he explained.

Looking ahead, Msibi definitely sees himself continuing with theatre after university. “Theatre has a strong, live energy that allows people to connect deeply with art. I want to continue creating stories that matter,” he said. For audiences attending ISIGUQO, he promises a moving experience that contains healing, touching music, and powerful acting.

Msibi believes that productions like ISIGUQO are essential for the DUT community. “They speak to social issues that people don’t usually talk about. Student-led productions give voice to those silenced experiences and build social cohesion.” Msibi aims to be a creator who not only tells powerful stories but also inspires other artists to find their voice. To first-year students hoping to follow a similar path, he advised, “Believe in yourself and have love for acting. That passion will carry you through.”

His career in film and theatre is decorated with achievements. Msibi explained that the love for acting started at early stage while he was still in high school, he went on to produce several award-winning films, including ISIBAZI,My Winter Tears, and Idelakufa. His work has been recognised in local and international film festivals, including in China, Taiwan, and South Korea. In 2024 alone, he was nominated for Best Student Film at the Simon Sabela KZN Television and Film Awards, and he also achieved recognition in the Umlazi Film Festival and Cape Town’s 48-hour film race.

As he prepares to stage ISIGUQO, Msibi  continues to dream big. His films have been selected for international screening, and he is ready to travel and take his craft to the next level. For him, storytelling is more than entertainment it is a tool for healing, reflection, and social change. ISIGUQO is proof of that.

Pictured:Lindani Msibi