Nelson Mandela musical, ‘Mandela’, announces initial cast

The musical is created in partnership with the Mandela family.

Find out who will star in the world premiere of Mandela, a musical that tells the story of South Africa’s first Black president, Nelson Mandela. Mandela begins previews at the Young Vic on 29 November, with an opening night on 8 December, and performances to 4 February.

The Mandela musical follows Nelson Mandela’s 27 year fight, demonstrating how he and his fellow comrades sacrificed all parts of their lives for the greater good. The production is created in partnership with Nandi Mandela, Nelson Mandela’s granddaughter, Luvuyo Madasa, and the Mandela family.

Michael Luwoye will play Nelson Mandela. He’s previously played Alexander Hamilton in the Broadway production of Hamilton. Frozen’s Danielle Fiamanya will play Winnie Mandela.

The cast includes Gregory Armand as Vusi, Zion Battles as Bongani, Earl Carpenter as the Prime Minister, Stewart Clarke as the Warden, Hanna Dimtsu as Nomsa, Lerato Gwebu as Adelaide Tambo, Prudence Jezile as Praise Singer, Akmed Junior Khemalai as Walter Sisulu, Blue Makwana as Gugu, Kayleigh McKnight as Barbara, Posi Morakinyo as Thembi Mandela, Sneziey Msomi as Albertina Sisulu/Maki Mandela, Ryan O’Donnell as Joe Slovo, Adam Pearce as Kobus, Shiv Rabheru as Ahmed Kathrada, Will Richardson as Piet, Leanne Robinson as Zindzi Mandela, and Ntsikelelo Nicholas Vani as Oliver Tambo. The full Mandela cast will be announced at a later date.

Mandela features an original book by Laiona Michelle, music and lyrics by Greg Dean Borowsky, Shaun Borowsky, and additional music and lyrics by Bongi Duma, and direction by Schele Williams.

The show will feature set design by Hannah Beachler, costume designs by Fay Fullerton, lighting design by Jon Clark, and sound design by Paul Gatehouse.

Mandela is at the Young Vic.

Photo credit: Michael Luwoye (Photo courtesy of production)