SABC3’s most prized local drama series Isidingo reached the celebrated
landmark 19th birthday this year.
The show, based on the gold mines of Horizon Deep, recognised for always offering
unconventional and challenging storyline lines has, over the almost two decades of
broadcasting, remained ever resilient.
This remarkable landmark comes as a result of a myriad of captivating and enthralling
moments in the years of the countless anecdotes of the Horizon Deep residents.
Since the show first premiered on 7 July 1998, Isidingo has disclosed topical
storylines to its engrossed viewers.
The success of the series lies in the ability to relate story lines that appeal to the
South African public, investigating the various facets of life. Touching, real-life
moments have transformed the fictional mine town into a household name.
“An amazing team of writers, new faces together with the recognizable and reputable
talent have all contributed to the Isidingo success of the last nineteen years,’
states Pumla Hopa executive producer of the show. “Hopefully the series will be
around for many years to come.’
A considerable achievement, 19 years of successful broadcasting have also recently
produced a further growth in the fan base with a significant increase in viewership
figures.
“The writers, cast, crew and producers of Isidingo have, in the last six
months, committed wholeheartedly to a turnaround of the show,’ comments
Jacqueline Achilleas, the SABC3 commissioning editor for drama. “South African
audiences are showing their appreciation of stories that are authentic, resonant and
relevant and that truly reflect their reality, their aspirations, their hopes and
dreams.’
Exciting narratives are planned for the forthcoming months. Widespread conflicts will
be experienced between Barker, Nikiwe Sibeko and Ofentse Moloi, over the merge of
the two mines, which will culminate into a huge event blow out involving the
Deep’s
most disliked magnate. Will Barker survive this ordeal?
Georgie feels that life is passing by to quickly and decides to have a family reunion
and in doing so he believes he has discovered a new son in Matlala. The story
becomes quite gripping as it develops.
Gabriel makes a sudden return to Horizon Deep. What are his expectations from
Nikiwe and the mine folk?
We also find a new character in Beverley Kunene. A sweet, friendly but assertive
young lady, girlfriend to Kwanele Majola who has to fight off Nina Zamdela for his
attentions.
The journey thus far has been an exciting one and certainly promises to continue
with the narration of fascinating, succinct and thrilling stories for the South
African
TV public to relish. Isidingo has remained true to its mandate of depicting
social realism, with the right dose of drama to keep viewers engaged and entertained.
