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NATHAN DAMBUZA MDLEMDLE - QUOTATION

'King Kong' is the first theatrical creation to provide a logical goal for the aspirations of African actors, musicians and singers. Up to now they have had to be content with recording and concert work, mostly at variety level. If 'King Kong' justifies the faith of the creative team, it could see the beginning of a new era in entertainment in South Africa. Perhaps it is because so much is at stake that everybody concerned with 'King Kong' is working with almost hysterical fervour. The coveted leading part is being played by Nathan Dambuza Mdledle, who, 6 ft. 5 ins, tall, about matches in size the original King Kong. As leader of the famous Manhattan Brothers, Mdledle is one of the best-known African artistes and his recordings have given him an international reputation. His golden voice will be well-served by Matshikiza's music.

-'A Special Correspondent', "First All-African Jazz Opera", Contact, January 24, 1959.

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