It started with one song ……………
In 1972, African Theatres contacted Bertha and Gail with a request – Eartha Kitt would be performing in South Africa and wanted to include two African numbers in her show.
Together Bertha and Gail composed “Ipi Ntombi” and “Mama Tembu’s Wedding.” Eartha felt this rhythmic beat would not suit her slow and sultry style. However, a record company requested that they write additional songs of a similar timbre…. and so, the African Extravaganza IPI NTOMBI was born. The musical achieved enormous success, winning Gold Records and many International awards, as well as touring globally.
*Click article to enlarge
Musical masterpiece
Over a million South Africans saw IPI NTOMBI during its three-year run at the Brooke Theater, making it one of South Africa’s most successful entertainment exports.
“The cast’s enthusiasm and energy make every rehearsal feel like an opening night,” said Bertha.
The biggest thrill for the creator, Bertha Egnos, was providing work for 90 talented cast members who have become tremendous ambassadors for South Africa.
*Click article to enlarge
Musical Duo Steps to Africa Beat …
At work on a new musical, Gail Lakier and her mother, Bertha Egnos, find collaboration a comfortable habit. They have been working together since Gail was a child.
*Click article to enlarge
Bertha is 85 and still going strong …
At 85 Bertha is back to the piano, as IPI NTOMBI is revived after 14 years. “Age is no limit for the creative spirit, the smash hit’s creator proves.”
When staged in the mid-1970s, the show could not be played to “mixed-race“ audiences. Now, a whole new generation of theatergoers can enjoy a revived version.
*Click article to enlarge
*Click article to enlarge
In memory of Bertha Egnos, a little Venus
(Soweto Times)
Bertha Egnos, co-creator of IPI NTOMBI and entertainment industry icon, died this week at the age of 90. The show has had a lasting impression on those who saw it.
Some of the popular tunes that will be remembered are “Mama Tembu’s Wedding”, “Ipi Ntombi”, “The Warrior”, and “Nadia”—a song of hope.
*Click article to enlarge
*Click article to enlarge
Creator of “Ipi Ntombi” dies at 90
Bertha Egnos Godfrey, the producer and creator of the hit 1970s musical Ipi Ntombi, has died. Bertha, who recently turned 90, had a phenomenally successful musical career, having created and written one of the most successful South African musicals ever staged—Ipi Ntombi.
*Click article to enlarge
*Click article to enlarge
