Artists tackle taboo topic of male suicide
Art serves audiences when it is used to explore difficult topics and the latest production at the Guild Theatre, Conflicted, boldly encourages audiences towards a deeper understanding of suicide amongst men.
Directed by Mzamo Kunene, the play ran for two days under his brand, Mzamo Art Creative.
“SA men are far more likely to commit suicide than women.
“Seventeen out of 20 suicides (in SA) are by men,” said Kunene.
Though a work of fiction, the play started off with informative statistics relating to male suicide, bridging the gap between art and realism.
This theme was particularly important to Kunene because he believes that one way to combat this negative issue is to recognise the signs and offer support to those affected.
“’We have to start looking internally to understand why it is that men are far more likely to commit suicide.
“I wanted to open a safe space for men to come out and talk and to let them feel and know that they are not alone,“said Kunene.
The eight actors and performers captured the pain and turmoil of suicide poignantly. Each performer put on a stunning display of emotion and storytelling that kept the audience engrossed.
The message of Kunene’s work was relatable and certainly struck a nerve.
Kunene has a rich history with performing dance, with experience in kwaito, and modern dance skills.
He is an apprentice dance teacher at the Sonwa Sakuba institute for Performing Arts.
He plans to continue performing and creating productions that will touch and inspire those who watch.
“The works I’m planning to do in the future mainly touch on the issues we face as a society.
“Theatre is the reflection of what is happening in society.
“As art lovers and the community, we need to support each other and uplift the culture of supporting theatre and watching shows regardless of whose show it is.
“This is only the beginning of many more dance works to come,” said Kunene.