Mlanjeni Nduma’s love of storytelling is so deeply rooted in his family and cultural traditions that he turned it into children’s entertainment. The Library has been there since the beginning. 

“We actually started in the Dauphin County Library System way back when,” said Nduma. “That was 1975 when I started performances.” In 1978, Nduma relocated Mlanjeni’s Magical Theater to Philadelphia. Today, he leads a troupe dedicated to delighting children through a form of East African theater weaving together magical illusions, puppetry, folk music and dance, and “always a story. It’s either a folk story or a story from history.” 

On July 11, Mlanjeni’s Magical Theater presents “Ijapu’s Story Cloth” at East Shore Area and Kline libraries as part of The Library’s live summer entertainment (information and registration at dcls.org/events or by calling 717-234-4961). 

How were you introduced to libraries?

My parents would always tell us stories, and every week, they would take us to the library. They would say, ‘We will stay for an hour, get some books, bring them home, and then you’re going to tell us stories.’” My mom is 97, and she is an avid reader. She reads a book a week. 

What do libraries mean to you as a children’s entertainer?

Because I grew up in the library, the library has always encouraged my storytelling. When I was growing up, the Philadelphia library had field trips. We’d go to theaters, or sometimes they’d have programs come in. I always feel that the library plays such an important part for everyone because it’s an important part of my life. We’re having a debate in our organization about performing at libraries, because frankly, libraries don’t have much money. I say that we will perform at libraries, no matter what. 

Why do libraries matter so much to you?

Libraries are essential. You may not have money to buy a book, but you can certainly go to a library to borrow a book. 

What do children gain from libraries?

They need to know that learning doesn’t end. The culture teaches children that when they finish their senior year, school’s out. Unless you’re planning on going further, education is finished. As a result, as adults, how many people actually read books? Education doesn’t stop just because you have finished school. Education is forever. It’s an African proverb. Education is like your hair. It’s supposed to keep growing.