Removing a sense of ‘other’

When Swallows Cry: three stories grappling with

global mobility from African perspectives

performed’. But as far as the script and content go, the Cape Town Swallows is the exact same play as the Joburg Swallows.

“The three actors complement each other in very specific ways and throughout, in all three stories enacted.

“I see and experience and appreciate that – first as an actress and then as director. They portray very diverse characters in the three scenarios, constantly switching between the three, effortlessly: the villain, now the victim – and that’s a blurry distinction given the theme and content.”

The design amplifies the Kafkaesque horrors of the protagonists:

She added: “Designer Nadya Cohen has come up with a brilliant set – a suspended steel grid above the raised stage which reinforces the sense of enclosed space, detainment, imprisonment: of a caged Swallow – or one with clipped wings?”

It was mentioned at the open rehearsal that Van Graan went with Job’s suggestion to swop a scene around.

This must be wonderful as a director, to be able to play with the text?

“I agree, it is. As a director and actress I am passionate about creating or acting in works that not only get people talking but also get them to think and question… telling a story that deals with uncomfortable issues.

“I was challenged – in a good way – by the script. I am thankful for the openness with which I could approach Mike about a scene swop. But I was and still am very trusting of his response; if my suggestion was not a workable one, he would not have agreed.”

Tickets are R80 until February 8. ●

Thereafter, tickets are R95-R120. Concessions for students and seniors – R70. Book at www. webtickets.com or at the Webtickets outlet at the Baxter.