A new, critically-acclaimed blockbuster production of the iconic South African musical from the 1950s. Set in Sophiatown, <em>King Kong - Legend of a Boxer</em> tells the tragic true story of the rise and fall of heavyweight boxing champion Ezekiel Dlamini, nicknamed King Kong. <br /> <br /> Set to the irresistible jazz music of the late great South African composer Todd Matshikiza, South Africa’s first black musical premiered in 1959 and helped launch the careers of original cast members Miriam Makeba and Hugh Masekela.<br /> <br /> In a recent <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2017/08/08/theater/reviving-a-south-african-musical-that-once-promised-so-much.html?mcubz=1&_r=0">New York Times feature about the new production</a>, producer Eric Abraham (most famous for his work on the Oscar winning Polish film Ida) described King Kong as "a universal morality tale in a post-truth, post-shame, politically fragmented society.” In this new production, the script, score and setting remain the same but the team have given the show subtle updates. In particular critics have praised the thrilling new choreography - created by celebrated South African choreographer Gregory Maqoma - and the new songs added to the score which fit seamlessly with Matshikiza's originals.<br /> <br /> This is an all-round superb production - from the choreography, sets and lighting, to the performances and magical voices of the cast. <em>King Kong Legend of a Boxer</em> is without a doubt one of the best theatre productions of the year. <br /> <br /> After ending its run at Joburg Theatre <em>King Kong </em>returns to Cape Town (where it premiered in July) for another season.