“Shebeen Queens”, a reality show about the indomitable women behind well-known Soweto shebeens Alina’s Place, Big Mama’s Tavern, and Rams Tavern, dropped the first episode on Showmax, giving viewers a front-row seat to their lives.
The show chronicles the lives of three shebeen queens – Alina Sishange, Xoliswa Shwayimba, and Emily Thabang Leeuw, fondly known as Big Mama – as they attempt to juggle job and family responsibilities in the cut-throat, late-night industry that has historically been dominated by men.
One of the leading queens, Leeuw, expressed her surprise and delight at being chosen for a reality show, adding that the enthusiasm really started to build throughout filming.
“I was shocked, sceptical, and tempted to say no, but I saw how consistent and serious the production team was about bringing me on board, so I couldn’t resist the opportunity.
“I adapted quickly to having cameras around. The hardest part is having to be vulnerable and expose every aspect of my life.”
She also shared details about the tavern, revealing that it has been operated by generations for years, and plans for further expansion and bringing her children on board when she retires.
“This ship has been in the family for years. My mother ran it before she passed away. I officially obtained the required permit and licensing rights in 2004, so the business has been running for nearly 20 years.
“I want to leave a legacy for my family. Even though they haven’t shown much interest in the business, I’m grooming my children to take over when I retire. Eventually, I’d also like to expand and open a bottle store here.”
Speaking about the competitors, she said what keeps her business successful are her loyal customers and her trading hours.
“Unlike my competitors, I close shop at 2am instead of 10pm. I’m willing to stay up late to gain an edge.”
When asked whether her business had an impact on her interactions with her neighbours, she said: “My relationship with my neighbours isn’t great. There’s a lot of tension due to my trading hours, but I don’t care because this is how I take care of my loved ones. Every now and then, they’ll call the metro and report me for noise disturbance.”
The Star