The 67-year-long career of veteran actress and singer, Abigail Kubeka will be held in great respect by Phambili Siyaya Arts organisation and the Joburg Theatre on the 17th of August.
The 84-year-old thespian currently portraying the character of Gog’ Zondiwe on Generations: The Legacy, is renowned for her roles in film, television, and on stage. She featured in films such as Hijack and The Line – while making sure that her stage presence was felt with roles, she portrayed such as Des and Dawn Lindberg’s King Afrika, alongside Henry Cele, and on Best Little Whorehouse in Texas with Judy Page.
According to TVSA, Abigail not only contributes to the arts by acting, but she is also a singer, dancer and songwriter. The gleam of this star was first discovered by Miriam Makeba in 1957, while she was still 16 years old. Mariam then took her under her wing to perform with her Skylarks ensemble, which had Letta Mbulu and Mary Rabotaba at the time. Abigail recorded an updated version of Yini Madoda, a song that was recorded by Skylarks almost 40 years later.
In an interview with Daily Sun, she said: “I’m humbled and honoured to be celebrated during Women’s Month. Gone are the days when women were limited to the kitchen. We’ve demonstrated that we’re able to deliver across different industries. We must be reminded that oppression of women still exists in different forms.
“What the 20,000 women did in 1956 changed many lives. They were determined. They were our mothers. When a mother puts on her fighting gear, you know it’s going to get real. We must never forget what they’ve achieved,” said Abigail.
The commemoration of Abigail’s 67 years in the industry will include performances from Brenda Mtambo, Judy Page, Marah Louw, Mdu Masilela, Trompies, Lira, Simmy and many other musicians.
Also see: 20 years in the game! Celebrate with DJ Zinhle at ZeeNationFest
