As the National Arts Festival officially kicks off on June 27, a host of Durban productions are headed for the festival’s fringe.
We’ve collated some local highlights to catch if you’re headed to Grahamstown for the Fest, or for when they tour the local circuit later this year. Some of these we’ve seen, while others are premiering at the Fest from producers known to bring great things to the stage.
• Hitchcock’s The 39 Steps was a major success with both audiences and critics when it premiered in Durban last year. The ultimate espionage thriller spoof, the play features Clare Mortimer, Clinton Small and Michael Gritten. It will be staged at at Memory Hall from June 27 to July 6.
• The winner of the Fringe Audience Favourite Award at the Musho Theatre Festival, Reality Bytes is a rip-roaring journey through the world of reality TV with Mahesh (Verne Rowin Munsamy) and Yvette (Shona Johnson) as they blunder their way through a collection of reality TV shows. At Vicky’s from July 2 to 7.
• A great edutainment offering, Rhythm Dudes is an interactive show for young people using rhythmic sequences to show that teamwork and respect for family, superiors and colleagues are vital in creating a harmonious and efficient society. Written and directed by Caroline Smart, it features Philani Muthwa and Tiwe Mbele. At Memory Hall from July 2 to 6.
• The winner of a Mercury Durban Theatre Award, Birdman tells the tale of a conman who convinces people he is going to build a flying machine. But when things go awry, he may have to prove that he really is “a Man of Science”. Written and directed by Marc Kay, featuring Adam Doré. At NG Kerk Hall from June 27 to July 5.
• A new offering from popular Pietermaritzburg emerging theatre practitioner Stallone Santino is Rituale Romanum: The Strange Case of Anneliese. The play explores the dramatic experience of Anneliese Michel. The psychological thriller is based on the dramatic true-life events surrounding an alleged demonic possession. The play grapples with debates about science and religion which are still raging in the world today. Written and directed by Stallone Santino, and featuring Simone Du Preez, Liana Barciela and Nicolas Hughes. At St Andrew’s Hall from June 27 to July 2.
• Also a new offering on the cards, this time from Umsindo Theatre Projects from Umlazi – who are increasingly being noticed for their high-quality theatre and performances – is Pieces of the Puzzle. This is a story of culture versus Christianity. The story is set in the bedroom of a young girl who is sick. Her parents are trying their best to help her. The mother is saying that they must pray and take her to hospital, while the father is putting his foot down, saying they must take her to the sangoma. The play is written and directed by popular twin brothers Musawenkosi and Bongumusa Shabalala. Featuring Thamsanqa Silindana, Nonhle Dlongolo and Nolwazi Shabalala. At B2 Arena from June 27 to July 1.
• Full NAF programme at www.nationalartsfestival.co.za