BOESMAN AND LENA AT THE HEX

Paul Datlen from the University of KwaZulu-Natal Pietermaritzburg’s Drama and Performance Studies is to direct a production of Athol Fugard's play Boesman and Lena for the Hexagon Studio Theatre.

Boesman and Lena premiered at Rhodes University in 1969. Some 43 years later, this play is as poignant now as it was then as it explores the complex relationship between two displaced and marginalised human beings. It is a moving love story in a society that brutally discriminates against race and gender.

The arduous journey of Boesman and Lena brings them once again to the mud flats of Swartkops on the outskirts of Port Elizabeth. Even when they have been reduced to "Flowers on the dung-heap", their enduring spirit for survival, their indomitable zest for life, bubbles through in spite of all the odds against them.

The talented cast includes Mandisa Haarhoff (of Crush Hopper fame, winner of an Ovation award at last year's National Arts Festival) plays Lena. Kline Smith (A Midsummer Night's Dream, The Silent Princess) is Boesman and the role of Outa is played by JC Zondi. Set and costume design is by Sandra Styles with lighting by Marcus Henning.

Boesman and Lena runs in the Hexagon Studio Theatre, UKZN, Pietermaritzburg, from March 28 to 31 at 19h30. Tickets R60 (R45 seniors and scholars). Preferred method of booking: hexagon@ukzn.ac.za and booking is essential as seating is limited in this theatre. More information on 033 260 5537