Biography

Mbongeni Ngema was born on June 1, 1955 in Verulam, South Africa. He was an actor and writer, known for The Lion King (1994), Asinamali (2017) and A Queen's Lobola (2023). He was married to Leleti Khumalo and Xoliswa Nduneni-Ngema. He died on December 27, 2023 in Mbizana, Eastern Cape, South Africa.

Has been nominated for four Tony Awards: in 1987, as Best Director (Play) for "Asinamali!;" and in 1988, as Best Director (Musical), Best Score (Musical), with Hugh Masekela, and Best Choreographer, with Ndaba Mhlongo, for "Serafina!"

He was awarded the 1986 Drama Logue Award for Outstanding Direction and Writing for "Asinamali! "at the Mark Taper Forum Theatre in Los Angeles, California.