At the moment, theatregoers are spoilt for choice with musicals, “TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift” and “Diary of a Wimpy Kid - The Musical”. However, if you have been there and done that, these are the other stage productions on offer in the coming weeks.
A DOLL’S HOUSE, PART 2
Bianca Amato and Zane Meas, as Nora and Torvald, respectively, lead this critically acclaimed Tony Award-winning play.
Directed by Barbara Rubin, this production is set in 1879 when Nora Helmer decides to leave her husband and children, seeking out her independence.
Fifteen years later, she returns to the place she left, looking for answers that she was unable to find when she left.
In unpacking poignant themes around love, marriage and individuality, the script is underpinned by quick-witted humour and rousing sentiments.
Where: Theatre on the Square.
When: May 14 to June 7.
PIECES OF ME
As the title suggests, this is a personal tale with poignant life lessons unpacked through family secrets.
The play centres on Bo Petersen, who grew up in a white family during apartheid. At 19, she learned that her father, who wasn’t white, defied the laws and married the love of his life, who was white.
In trying to understand the dynamics, Bo started writing “pieces” as a way of better understand her father, his passing and, in turn, her own mortality.
This offering explores questions of identity.
Where: Barney Simon, Market Theatre.
When: Runs until April 27.
HAVE YOU SEEN ZANDILE?
This is another drama that will stir emotions.
It is a touching story of Zandile, an eight-year-old girl living a happy life with her Gogo in Durban. Unfortunately, her blissful existence is disrupted by her mother, who, after taking her to rural Transkei, insists on her following a traditional path.
This entails no education, an early marriage and hard labour.
As she is thrust into this unforgiving new setting, Zandile tries to make sense of the rigid societal expectations placed upon her amid financial hardship and political unrest.
Where: Gibson Kente Theatre at Soweto Theatre.
When: Runs until May 2.
WHAT’S THE POINT
If you are looking for a therapeutic laugh, then Riaad Moosa’s “What’s The Point” is the ideal show to catch.
A real-life doctor, who lives by the laughter is the best medicine concept, is back on the stage.
Known for his wholesome humour, Moosa invites the audience into his world, unravelling life and the chaotic state of the world.
His light-hearted banter is relatable, and the audience is left lapping up his interpretation of everyday scenarios.
Where: Pieter Toerien Montecasino Main Theatre.
When: April 17 to 27.