Starting their careers..

Initially, South African law prevented Black artistes performing in shows for White audiences. In the early ‘70s restrictions were relaxed so that Black artistes could now perform to White and sometimes mixed audiences. A number of Black “tribal” musicals were produced — such as IPI NTOMBI, MEROPA (then called KWA ZULU) and uMABATHA (also known as “the Black MACBETH”). Hugely successful both at home and abroad, Todd and Thembi’s paths were to cross again as both managed to get roles in shows that took them overseas.

Todd began her theatre career in 1976 with Joan Brickhill and Louis Burke’s production of MEROPA.
It toured locally and then internationally. In the meantime, Thembi was involved with IPI NTOMBI which she had joined in 1976. Todd and Thembi met up again in 1978 while working for these South African productions performing in London’s famous theatreland, the West End. MEROPA closed its doors in 1978 after a long and successful run, leaving Todd without work.

IPI NTOMBI was auditioning for new cast members. Todd auditioned and was accepted, and from that day Todd and Thembi’s careers and future visions merged.