(Pic: Shika Budhoo and Kajal Maharaj)Ashwin Singh’s Spice ‘n Stuff is to be presented as the final leg of the Playhouse Company’s current season of New Stages.
A tantalising mixture of comedy and drama, the play traces the last days of a group of Grey Street traders as they deal with escalating crime, failing businesses, friendships across racial and cultural denominations, entwined with family relationships.
It showcases a female trader, Rita, in the central role. The pressures of dwindling business preoccupy Rita but it is the fear of her secret which threatens to unravel her, as she undergoes an emotional journey of self-discovery. The actions of the street and the poignancy of the store becomes increasingly sensitising as the piece plays out to a dramatic finale.
Described by Singh as “a celebration of life, here, now, and always”, Spice ‘n Stuff is directed by Themi Venturas. The production stars award-winning actress, Shika Budhoo, as Rita, with Rory Booth as her son, Vijay, a trainee attorney who is nearing the last days of his training but is uncertain whether he will be retained as a qualified attorney.
The ensemble cast also includes Ashwin Singh, Dhaveshan Govender, Kajal Maharaj and Nthando Mncube, who play a variety of roles in this richly populated piece which vividly evokes the life and times and the many-sided dynamics of the community it describes. The revival of this third play by Ashwin Singh is especially appropriate in the context of this year’s 150 year celebrations of the arrival of the first Indians in South Africa.
Spice ‘n Stuff runs in the Playhouse Loft from October 21 to 23. The duration of the show is one hour. Booking is through Computicket on 083 915 8000 or Playhouse Box Office on 031 369 9596 (office hours). Pre-booked tickets R60 (R70 at the door). There is safe discounted parking at the Royal Parking and Albany Parking. School bookings through Margie Coppen on 083 251 9412.