Kenan Ennie Klopse

Originally developed for Première Theatre Festival ‘n Storie oor belonging. Kenan stands on a threshold. His people whisper what he must be, but inside him burns another rhythm – the voice of his dreams that can only be heard when all falls silent. He carries the heavy stories of his ancestors in his body: every step weighted with pain, every breath a reminder of a history of oppression. Through dance, he begins to move through time from darkness to light, from captivity to freedom. How will he answer the ancient call of the ghoema?

This play was conceptualized and written by award-winning actress Alyssa Jacobs, originally from the Northern Cape. Though not a Kaapse Klopse participant herself, she grew up immersed in its melodies through watching artists like Emo Adams . Jacobs sought to explore this vibrant tradition and the rich complexity of coloured identity. Visionary director Jeanne-Marié Koekemoer brought the script to life with stunning staging.

Kenan’s journey is an important one to follow, in the heaviness of exploring his lineage his decisions and battles shed light on the importance of finding your own voice in your community as well as honouring your roots. The show is portrayed through the lens of spiritual realism, and this gives the audience members insight into the seen and unseen parts of Kenan’s world. The play also uses physical theatre, a language that the audience members get to learn and understand deeper as the play progresses.