Acclaimed play makes a comeback
‘Woza Albert!’ asks what would happen if Christ returned to SA?
ACCLAIMED South African theatre luminaries Mbongeni Ngema and Percy Mtwa reprise their original roles created some 40 years ago in one of this country’s most popular classics, Woza Albert! at the Baxter Flipside starting next month.
Described as an internationally lauded political satire, Woza Albert! will start at the Baxter on February 5.
Based on quite a simple idea at the height of apartheid, the two characters ask the question, what would happen if Christ returned to South Africa?
From this seemingly simple thought, the two actors developed the stage play with renowned theatre-maker Barney Simon.
The production toured the world during the early ’80s and played a major role in raising global support for the anti-apartheid struggle.
The two actors present a compelling view of multiple characters who explore several themes of race and class, and expose the power structures of white supremacy and concludes with a call for Christ to raise the dead heroes and leaders who opposed apartheid. The play depicts and critiques situations that were part of black people’s daily lives: the pass laws, the segregation and the subjugation.
Woza Albert! is presented by the Baxter Theatre Centre and Committed Artists, in association with The Playhouse Company.
It previews at the Baxter Flipside from February 5 to 7, opens February 8 and runs until March 2. There is an age restriction of 13 years. Early booking is advised to take advantage of the early bird special by booking before January 31 and pay R100, thereafter tickets range from R135 to R195.
Booking is now open at Webtickets on 086 111 0005, online at www. webtickets.co.za or from selected Pick n Pay stores. For discounted school or group block-bookings, fund-raisers or charities, contact Sharon Ward on 021 680 3962 or e-mail sharon. ward@uct.ac.za or Carmen Kearns on 021 680 3993 or e-mail her at carmen. kearns@uct.ac.za.