(Pic by Andrew Brown: Nonceba Constance Didi & Mncedisi Shabangu)Based on the true story that rocked the nation and shocked the world, Lara Newton’s critically acclaimed Tshepang comes to Michaelhouse’s Schlesinger Theatre from March 2 to 4. Since it was first performed in South Africa in 2003, the play has touched the hearts of theatre lovers all over the globe.
In 2001, South Africa was devastated by the news of the brutal rape of nine-month-old baby Tshepang in Louisvaleweg, a small town in the Northern Cape, leaving behind scars which still penetrate today. Once the story hit local and international headlines, it was as if the scab was torn off a festering wound as hundreds of similar stories suddenly surfaced via the media - each equally horrific.
Inspired by this shocking true story, Lara responded to the desperate situation by starting to write the play in 2002, based on extensive research from media articles and related material and a deeper investigation into both the physical and socio-economic landscape where events such as these occur. Rather than pointing fingers and finding unsubstantiated answers, the play draws the viewer into the complexities and contradictions that surround these events.
While South African reviews have praised the production, it has also received critical acclaim in London: “This searing and compassionate, powerfully acted play … is a committed act of remembrance.” (The Stage, London) and “There’s a richness and subtlety in Lara Foot Newton’s script that has not been seen in South African new writing in recent years.” (Critic’s Choice, Time Out, London)
Tshepang is currently a matric set-book for Drama, and has been named as a South African classic text, a text that will rarely be seen performed live with the original cast. Lara Newton, who is also the Director of the Baxter Theatre in Cape Town, will present lectures after two of the shows - an experience not to be missed! Lara Newton once again directs Mncedisi Shabangu, who reprises his role as narrator and sculptor Simon, and Nonceba Constance Didi who plays Ruth in this haunting and uplifting masterpiece of redemption.
Tshepang has performances in the Schlesinger Theatre at Michaelhouse on March 2 at 14h00* and on March 3 and 4 at 19h00 with an extra performance on March 3 at 11h00* (* includes lecture by Lara Newton). Tickets R120 (R100 scholars and pensioners) booked through Michelle Huntley on 033 234 1139 or email: email: michun@michaelhouse.org
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