Socio-economic struggles and dark side of politics take centre stage
IN CASE you missed it, Soweto Theatre's long-awaited Schools Setworks Festival is still on.
The festival's objective, which is highly recommended for all Gauteng schools, is to encourage individual expression.
The isiZulu set book, Ubhuku Lwamanqe, is a part of the festival offering. It's brought to life on stage with an ensemble cast of Andiswa Ngcobo, Thingo Mcanyana, Zevangeli “Zevie” Mampofu and Nkazimulo Mkhwanazi.
This powerful play follows people grappling with conflict, secrets, broken promises, crime, and the inevitable consequences that shatter their lives.
Ubhuku Lwamanqe is celebrated as a metaphorical masterpiece about how the choices you make dictate the trajectory of your life path. And this story looks at the catastrophic consequences of poor decision-making.
James Ngcobo, artistic director of Joburg City Theatres, said: “We extend a warm invitation to all schools, granting learners and educators the chance to witness their set book's storyline unfold in a unique form.
“Our theatre troupe will journey to your school, accompanied by the talented cast, allowing for an interactive question-and-answer session after the screening. This experience also serves as a window into the boundless artistic talents of local theatre practitioners.
“As we persist in delivering the pinnacle of South African performing arts through initiatives such as this, we eagerly await your presence at your schools in the near future.”
According to the press statement, the Schools Setworks Festival is a teaching aid for Grade 11-12 set works, featuring a professional company assisting students in a practical, thought-provoking way. The programme also provides
young cast opportunities to explore theatre work fields, including wardrobe, props, stage management, creative directing, marketing and sound.
Where: Soweto Theatre.
When: Runs until Friday.
Cost: R80 per learner.
The Brothers, Number One and a Weekend Special
This gripping play explores the dangerous world of South African politics. Written by Richard Calland, a respected political analyst, it takes the audience through a labyrinth of personal gains, politics, manipulation, suspense and intrigue.
It peels off the blinkers on how the new South Africa has been moulded by power, corruption and a series of tumultuous events.
The audience will witness highstakes manoeuvres, clandestine dealings, and the manipulation of public sentiment that fuelled further racial division across the nation.
Calland's masterful exposé of this world and its complexities is mesmerising.
Greg Homann directs the play.
Where: Mannie Manim, Market Theatre.
When: Today to May 12 at 7pm, and, on certain days, 3pm.
Cost: Ticket prices vary between R160 and R200 and can be purchased through Webtickets.
Yangthola
Based on a street dweller with multiple income streams, this production sets out to explore the “devastating effects of the capitalist system” on many hard-working black people.
The one-person show ingeniously crafts a mesmerising world where discarded items come to life in the hands of the protagonist, breathing new meaning into the overlooked fragments of society.
Beyond the powerful performance, Yangthola! serves as a powerful social commentary, shedding light on the harsh realities of South Africa's unforgiving capitalist system, reminding us all to see the beauty in the overlooked and the resilience in the marginalised, say the organisers.
Where: Ramolao Makhene, Market Square.
When: Tomorrow to May 1, at 7pm, 3pm and 1pm, times dependent on the day.
Cost: R100, ticket and can be purchased through Webtickets.
Spring Awakening
Critics are raving about this production, which is presented by Luitingh Alexander Musical Theatre Academy (LAMTA). And if you haven't got around to seeing it, there are still a few more days left to do so.
Directed by Sylvaine Strike, this ground-breaking musical, loosely set in 1895, has consistently pushed boundaries and captivated audiences with powerful storytelling, unforgettable music and thought-provoking themes that surround the trials and tribulations of growing up in the oppressive society of the day.
It's based on Frank Wedekind's controversial play.
Please note that Spring Awakening contains mature themes, partial nudity, sexual situations as well as explicit language. No persons under 13 are allowed.
Where: Pieter Toerien Montecasino Main Theatre.
When: Until May 5, at 7.30pm. Weekend times differ.
Cost: Tickets are between R200 and R350 and can be purchased through Webtickets.