IT CAN be one of the most intimidating aspects of school for many youngsters – the dreaded mathematics class. But with the play Chasing Gold, Gcugcwa Creative Productions hope to change that view. Subtitled Mathematics! It’s Not a Monster, the production is designed to take the fear out of studying maths through a take on a highly intelligent young girl from the Mtatasi Tribe.
The only stumbling block in her studies at school stems from her mental block with regard to studying maths.
This leads to low self-esteem for her and her fellow villagers who are also affected by this problem.
The situation prompts the king to call for help for his people.
One intelligent youth comes up with a positive solution for the girl and the tribe that will forever change their lives.
Written and directed by Zeph Nzama, the production specifically targets grade 8 and 9 pupils.
“Before I did this play I noticed that my child had some problems with mathematics at school. So that’s how I came up with the idea to simplify this issue on stage and explore how children can have fun with maths.
“But there is also the other serious aspect to it and that is when people lack the skills in maths. It affects their ability to apply for jobs or earn a living and support themselves.”
Aiming to bring depth, definition and clarity to young people’s understanding and experience of mathematics, he said the first step is to create an environment that is informative, educational and fun, also reflecting the value of contemporary learning in a relevant way.
“When we did this show for the first time, we had some pupils approach us to say the play helped them to see that maths is not as difficult or intimidating as they first thought.
“The play is about showing that we can use anything that we love, like music or dance, to better understand maths.”
Chasing Gold will be performed at Durban’s Stable Theatre until Friday with three performances daily at 9am, 11am and 1pm.
The production will then tour between May 11 and 29 to individual schools on request in the Durban, Pietermaritzburg regions, as well as in nearby coastal towns (minimum bookings of 350, smaller groups by arrangement).
Thereafter, Chasing Gold will be performed between June 1 and 5 at the Hexagon Theatre in Pietermaritzburg.
• Tickets are R25 a pupil. To secure bookings, contact Bongamusa Nzama at 073 644 1882 or e-mail [email protected].