Simon Nkoli, a South African anti-apartheid and gay activist, remains a celebrated figure 25 years after his death. His life and activism are now the subjects of an innovative opera titled “Vogue Opera,” a fusion of classical music, hip-hop, protest songs, and dance, staged to honor his legacy. This artistic rendition reflects Nkoli’s pivotal role in advocating for gay rights in South Africa, marking the country as the first in Africa to constitutionally protect these rights.
The opera, which debuted at Johannesburg’s Market Theatre on November 17, is a vibrant homage to Nkoli’s activism and personal journey. It includes depictions of significant events in his life, such as coming out as gay and HIV-positive, and his relationship with a white man during apartheid. This narrative is brought to life through dynamic performances, where dancers and singers don vibrant, glittering costumes, moving against a backdrop of archival images that capture moments from Nkoli’s life.
Composer Philip Miller, instrumental in the opera’s creation, shares a personal connection with Nkoli, having met him during his own journey of sexual identity exploration. Miller incorporates elements of LGBTQ+ ballroom culture into the opera, a culture that originated as a form of protest against oppression in 1980s New York. This aspect of the opera not only celebrates Nkoli’s activism but also serves as a tribute to the broader LGBTQ+ community’s resilience and spirit of resistance.
Despite facing prejudice, even from fellow anti-apartheid activists, Nkoli’s story is one of triumph and inspiration. Attendees of the opera, like fashion designer Abiah Mahlase-Muttit, emphasize the importance of recognizing and appreciating the individuals who paved the way for today’s freedoms. The opera aims not just to recount Nkoli’s struggles but also to celebrate the joy and vivacity he brought to others’ lives.
Looking ahead, the creators of “Vogue Opera” aspire to take this production across Africa and globally in 2023. Their goal is to shed light on the ongoing discrimination faced by the LGBTQ+ community, a poignant reminder that in many African countries, same-sex relations are still illegal. This opera, hence, serves as a call to remember the legacy of activists like Simon Nkoli while continuing the fight for equality and acceptance.