SHOOTING

(Pic: Dhaveshan Govender)

Durban playwright, actor, director Ashwin Singh presents a new one-hander football-themed drama, Shooting, opening on May 27.

The play features many memorable characters with whom audiences, across the cultural spectrum, will instantly recognize and identify. All of these colourful characters will be performed by well-loved comedic actor, Dhaveshan Govender, under the direction of playwright Ashwin Singh. Audiences will remember Govender in the very-funny Kings of Old Trafford and as the cute police sidekick in the popular Catalina whodunnit Shear Madness.

Weddings and funerals have always been a time for bittersweet reflection. While attending the funeral of his cousin Ishaan, Jehan Singh tells the comic and tragic story of his life growing up with his supremely talented football ‘star’ cousin. The story of the two boys is at once hilarious as it regales the interactions with the members of their extended Indian family, and tragic as it relates the unfulfilled dreams and aspirations of the young men.

Receiving its premiere at the Catalina Theatre at Wilson’s Wharf, the new play promises to show valuable insights into the dynamic cultural identity of the people of Durban. This is particularly poignant as the play deals with the untold story of a potential football star from a previously disadvantaged background who battles for recognition even in post-Apartheid South Africa. This is notably relevant in the year that Africa will finally host the FIFA World Cup.

With set and lighting design by Themi Venturas, this work deals with important aspects of South African Indian culture – the challenges, rewards and contradictions of extended families; the community-driven battles against the marginalization of Indians; the crucial role of sport in Indian community life; the strong emotional bond between mothers and sons; and the capacity to overcome socio-political hardships to attain material success and spiritual fulfilment; all of which resonate considerably in 2010 as we celebrate the 150th anniversary of the arrival of the 1860 Indian Settlers.

Shooting is the fourth Singh work to be debuted at the Catalina Theatre following To House, Spice and Stuff and The Loonee Lahnee Show. Low–price previews take place from May 27 to 30 after which the play runs until June 13. Performances Thursdays to Saturdays at 20h00 (Sunday at 18h00) with matinees on Saturdays at 17h00 (Sundays at 14h00). There is an under-12 age restriction.

Bookings online at Strictlytickets.com or theatre box office on 031 305 6889. Pensioner and student discounts apply. For more information visit www.catalinatheatre.co.za or call the Box office on 031 305 6889.