Mzansi Wethu, the renowned DStv channel 163 for DStv Access and DStv Family subscribers, is set to intrigue viewers with its first-ever original telenovela, Sibongile & The Dlaminis.
The exciting Cinderella story features Luyanda Zwane, Vuyo Biyela, Slindile Nodangala, Bhekani Shabalala, and Siyabonga Shibe.
Produced by Rhythm World Productions, the same team behind the successful shows Komkhulu and Umkhokha: The Curse, the telenovela is poised to make waves in the television landscape. Mark your calendars for the premiere on Monday, 31 July, at 18:30.
Sibongile & The Dlaminis follows the extraordinary journey of Sibongile Mbambo, portrayed by the talented Luyanda Zwane, an innocent rural young woman forced to leave her family and dreams behind to become a domestic worker in the lavish mansion of the affluent Dlamini family. Little does she know that destiny has an unexpected Cinderella story in store for her – in the form of a forbidden romance. The burgeoning relationship transforms Sibongile's life and impacts those around her, including her employers and their enormous business empire.
Set in the small town of Ixopo in KwaZulu-Natal, Sibongile & The Dlaminis promises to explore timeless themes of love, sacrifice, ambition, and familial bonds. The show, which can be described as hopeful, warm, authentic, and a real-world fairy tale, delivers superb entertainment.
"As the first-ever original telenovela on our channel, the airing of Sibongile & The Dlaminis will mark a significant milestone in our commitment to delivering diverse and compelling local content,” says Shirley Adonisi, director of local entertainment channels at M-Net. “Rhythm World Productions has once again demonstrated its exceptional storytelling prowess, and their collaboration on this project has been truly remarkable. We are confident that combining their creative genius and our dedicated viewership will make Sibongile & The Dlaminis an unforgettable television experience."
The telenovela, adapted from the popular Zambian story Zuba and the Solalas, weaves a tale of triumph against all odds. Sibongile's dream of pursuing higher education is shattered when her family's financial hardships force her to take a different path. Amidst her stepmother Deliwe's gambling woes, brilliantly portrayed by Slindile Nodangala, and the chaos that ensues, Sibongile's life takes an unexpected turn. However, as the saying goes, 'What happens to a dream deferred?'
With its rich narrative and unforgettable characters, Sibongile & The Dlaminis has an exceptional ensemble cast which includes Siyabonga Shibe, Ayanda Borotho, and Zodumo Shange, among other talented actors, bringing their characters to life with passion and authenticity.
Keep an eye out for more details on Mzansi Wethu's social media pages: Facebook and Twitter.