Diverse narratives of migration, love and independence unfold in these Joburg theatre shows
THEATRE WHAT'S ON
A compelling moment captured from the stage production 'The Last Country', a truly thought-provoking experience.
Image: Val Adamson
Amid the dynamic slate of theatre offerings at the moment, which includes “Swingin’ Las Vegas” at The Teatro, Montecasino, another production piques interest: “The Last Country”.
Inspired by the experiences of 30 migrant women from diverse countries who have relocated from rural areas to the city, this production explores their stories.
In this immersive production, which is directed by Neil Coppen, who also cowrote the script with Mpume Mthombeni, viewers will get to hear of the journeys of Ofrah from the DRC, MaThwala from Ndwedwe in KwaZulu-Natal, Aamiina from Somalia, and Aneni from Zimbabwe.
The script thoughtfully interlaces narratives of hardship, suffering, comedy, optimism, and perseverance, revealing our common human nature. It highlights how even the simplest gestures of goodwill can aid and reshape the lives of individuals seeking refuge in urban environments.
In this revised production, which is part of the Africa Month curation at the establishment, Mpume Mthombeni, Faniswa Yisa, Andile Vilakazi and Nompilo Maphumulo form the new a.
The Market Theatre's artistic director, Greg Homann, explored the significant theme of migration in this production.
“This play contributes to a much larger conversation about migration, belonging, hope and resilience. Again, it highlights policy limitations relating to migration in metropolitan areas and reminds us of the fundamental values that have shaped this beautiful nation,” he said.
Where: Mannie Manim, Market Theatre.
When: Runs until June 1, 7pm.
Zane Meas and Bianca Amato as Torvald and Nora, respectively, in 'The Doll House, Part 2'.
Image: Supplied
A DOLL’S HOUSE, PART 2
Fans of veteran actor Zane Meas and Bianca Amato can catch them in the critically acclaimed Tony Award-winning play by Lucas Hnath.
The production, which is back for a limited run, is directed by Barbara Rubin and also features Charlotte Butler and Simone Neethling.
The imitable Greg King heads the set design in this witty, thought-provoking and entertaining offering.
Greg King's set design is a highlight of this witty, thought-provoking, and entertaining theatre production.
The premise centres on Nora Helmer (Amato) walking away from her husband and children in 1879. She yearns for independence.
However, fifteen years later, she returns home with a request that rocks the family.
The script is cleverly penned to inspire debate while also offsetting the tense moments with comic levity.
Where: Theatre on the Square.
When: Runs until June 7. Times differ, depending on the day.
IZIBAZI ZOMENDO - MARITAL SCARS
Mbali Ndlozi writes and directs this critically acclaimed play, which explores the painful realities left by love.
Drawing on South Africa's complex socio-cultural environment, this production highlights gender dynamics and gender-based violence, while also showcasing the resilience of the human spirit.
“This work is deeply personal, yet universal. It is a story of pain, but also of hope and resilience,” Ndlozi shared.
She continued: “Every performance is an act of resistance and a call for change.”
Where: Basement Theatre at Roodepoort Theatre.
When: May 21 - 25, 11am and, 3pm on Sunday.