Show ‘KARATARA’ on at Barney Simon theatre
KNYSNA - Following its success in Cape Town, the critically acclaimed dance-drama Karatara is now captivating audiences at the newly refurbished Barney Simon Theatre in the Market Theatre in Johannesburg. Running for a limited period from 9 to 23 November, the production explores themes of loss, community, social injustice and the power of the media.
With its deeply personal narrative and exceptional artistry,
Karatara offers an emotional exploration of the devastating fire at Karatara in 2018 and the struggles faced by the affected community.
Karatara is a powerful dancedrama that explores the loss of family, home, community, and land in this community, with the Karatara River used as a theme highlighting the complex racial and social dynamics surrounding the river.
Karatara made its debut at the Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees (KKNK) in 2022, where it won the prestigious Best Debut Production award. The production has since enjoyed successful runs at Woordfees and the Baxter Theatre in Cape Town, and even had a short but impactful run in Knysna itself.
Its artistic brilliance has been acknowledged through various accolades, including a Fiësta award for Best Design and two Fleur du Cap awards for Best
Lighting and Best Sound Design, as well as the Woordfees Award for Best Dance Production .
"We are truly blessed with the life of this production," says the producer, Marie Vogts. "Each opportunity we get to perform is special.
“Theatrical work does not always have a long lifespan, so we are very grateful for the wonderful opportunities Karatara continues to have. Dance does not always get recognised as a category at award ceremonies, so this award is extra special.
“Thank you to Woordfees for carving out a place where dance can sit proudly among the other awards of the evening.
“Other than the joy of winning something, we also see this award as a means to propel the work even further.
“It helps with facilitating future opportunities, like the present run at the Market Theatre. Reopening the iconic Barney Simon theatre is a great privilege and honour."