Nambitha Mpulwane remembered Patrick Shai in his memorial service

One of the legendary actress who spoke at the memorial service is Nambitha Mpulwane who acted with Patrick on various shows and shared scenes remembered him with a moving tribute on his memorial service. She said that she have known Patrick for many years.

Nambitha played the character of his wife few times in different shows, Generations and Ashes to Ashes. She defined him as a person who was not afraid to be the target so that they can rise. He allowed them to stand tall on his shoulders. He did not seek the spotlight,it followed him.

 

 

 

Thursday turned out to be an emotional but also a day filled with laughter and dance as colleagues, friends and family gathered at the Market theatre to remember the late veteran actor, Patrick Shai.

Many of the speakers said that Patrick was a man with lots of love to give.

Patrick died last week Saturday at his home in Soweto. He was found by his wife, Mmasechaba where he hanged himself at his home garage. Amongst guests who attended the memorial service includes the Minister of Arts and Culture, Nathi Mthethwa who spoke highly of Patrick Shai, saying that his work would live on forever.

Mthethwa said that the industry has lost a true thespian, imitator and teacher. What is not lost is the legacy, he may be gone, but the legacy is not lost.

The producer on The River, Bonga Percy Vilakazi described Shai as a marvel to watch on screen.

Percy said Bra Pat was so accommodating, so warm welcoming he had no arrogance about him.

James Ngcobo, the artistic director of the Market Theatre said that Shai was a generous man who played a role in grooming other actors.

His wife, Mmasechaba Shai also spoke and urged South Africans to forgive him. She also urged her children not to take what people are saying on social media about their father.