‘Kingmakers’ resonates

But, as they say in the classics, truth is stranger than fiction – and theatre. “I am constantly amazed by the absolute clown rodeo of our political system,” muses Viljoen.

“It’s the strange combination of banality and grotesquery. If anything, I think The Kingmakers is a softer version of what actually happens behind closed political doors. I have ceased to be shocked by what our leaders and representatives are capable of. It would be impressive if it wasn’t so goddamn depressing.”

Viljoen is a theatre maker who is seen by many as a maverick with his unbridled use of language and images and the Fugard has not gone for a “safe” choice.

Viljoen’s work may have been dismissed by many as non-commercial but it put bums on seats at the Fugard, as evidenced by the success of his plays, Champ and The Pervert Laura.

Viljoen thinks that the Fugard was a bit “nuts” to go with him, but is delighted to be on board: “The residency came about after a number of discussions I had with The Fugard. They seem to enjoy working with me – God only knows why – and after having done Champ there in 2013 and The Pervert Laura in 2015, they wanted to continue the relationship. I never expected them to offer me a residency, I was satisfied with being considered for one more play, but then they knocked on my door and made me the offer. It’s a tremendous honour.”

● No- under 16s ( strong language). Tickets are R130-R150 at Computicket or 021 461 4554