A Powerful Tribute to the Lives Behind South Africa’s Mining Legacy
The Performing Arts Centre of the Free State (PACOFS) proudly presents MERAFONG, a gripping physical theatre production that explores the human cost of South Africa’s mining industry and pays tribute to the resilience of mine workers and their families.
Set against the backdrop of the Free State mining belt, MERAFONG arrives at a time when South Africans continue to reflect on the history of the country’s mines, where countless workers sacrificed their lives in pursuit of a better future. The production also acknowledges the painful memory of one of the country’s mining tragedies, in which workers lost their lives and were never identified before being laid to rest—a reminder of the many untold stories that remain part of South Africa’s collective history.
Written by Sello Nkoala, directed by Thabiso “Master T” Lefisoana and mentored by Lebohang Moroe, MERAFONG follows Dlamini, a man from KwaZulu-Natal who leaves home in search of greener pastures to provide for his family. Instead of finding opportunity, he encounters corruption, exploitation, and a system that has failed those whose labour built the nation’s economy.
Through Dlamini’s journey, audiences witness the collision between desperate communities, corrupt mining recruitment officials, negligent municipal authorities, and powerful mining bosses. Using the expressive language of physical theatre, MERAFONG offers a moving and thought-provoking exploration of hope, injustice, resilience and the enduring human spirit.
More than a theatrical production, MERAFONG serves as a platform for dialogue, remembrance and reflection. It honours the dignity of mine workers, recognises the sacrifices made by generations of families, and encourages audiences to confront the social and economic realities that continue to affect mining communities today.
Production Credits
Original Concept: SEDIMO by Thabiso “Master T” Lefisoana
Writer: Sello Nkoala
Director: Thabiso “Master T” Lefisoana
Mentor: Lebohang Moroe
Cast: Sello Nkoala, Naledi Dammie, Dieketseng Motjetje, Nokubonga Malindi
Suitable for all ages.
Performance Information
Venue: Andre Huguenet Theatre
Dates: 4 & 8 August 2026 @ 18:00
5,6 & 7 August 2026 @ 11:00
Tickets are available through Webtickets and the PACOFS booking office
Ticket Prices:
- R100 per person
- R80 per person for groups of five or more
PACOFS invites schools, mining communities, heritage organisations, theatre enthusiasts, and members of the public to experience this unforgettable production. MERAFONG promises to leave audiences reflecting on the human stories behind South Africa’s mining history while celebrating the courage, resilience and hope of those who dared to dream of a better life.
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For media enquiries, please contact Maseeta Makgabane on 079 875 6177 or info@pacofs.co.za