On November 10 2025, the Baxter Theatre in Cape Town will play host to a unique musical event that defies the boundaries of traditional performance. Scholar, improviser, and artistic researcher Dr Nduduzo Makhathini will bring his innovative project, ‘An Ongoing Rehearsal,’ to life alongside the gifted pianist, singer, and composer Thandi Ntuli. This collaboration promises not only a concert but an exploration of musical narratives intertwined with the essence of existence.
For much of 2025, Makhathini has been dedicated to the theme of ‘An Ongoing Rehearsal,’ which serves as both a collaborative space for artists and a means to create insightful ‘material for study’ following his completion of a PhD. His vision includes the production of a book titledAn Ongoing Rehearsal in Ntu Sonicities, a festival, and even a clothing line that shares the same name. These projects represent his commitment to capturing and celebrating the journey of creative expression.
Dr Nduduzo Makhathini will bring his innovative project, ‘An Ongoing Rehearsal,’ to life alongside the gifted pianist, singer, and composer Thandi Ntuli.
As the fifth movement of this ongoing project, the upcoming concert stands as a celebration of the songbooks and stories from both Makhathini and Ntuli, delivered in a captivating duet format. Historically, “An Ongoing Rehearsal” has featured a remarkable roster of artists including bassist Herbie Tsoaeli, singer and cultural activist Mbuso Khoza, singer-songwriter Muneyi, and trumpeter Ndabo Zulu with the Soweto Chorus, each contributing to the rich tapestry of this project.
Makhathini describes his endeavor as a departure from the conventional notion of rehearsal, which often seeks perfection. He asserts, “An Ongoing Rehearsal goes against the idea of a rehearsal in the traditional sense which seeks perfection. These rehearsals are recurring moments of knowing it is impossible but doing it anyway. A rehearsal as a space of emptying instead of acquiring.” His commitment to celebrating the existing rather than creating new music is further echoed in his sentiment: “There’s no new music written for an Ongoing Rehearsal but it really celebrates existing songs, musics and existing stories.”
This approach invites audiences to engage with the richness of cultural narratives and the beauty of familiarity in music. As Makhathini and Ntuli prepare for their performance, the excitement surrounding this event continues to grow, promising an unforgettable evening filled with rhythm, storytelling, and shared experience.
Dr Nduduzo Makhathini will bring his innovative project, ‘An Ongoing Rehearsal,’ to life alongside the gifted pianist, singer, and composer Thandi Ntuli.
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