THE CHILLI BOY

Grahamstown: July 4, 2012 – Review by Keith Millar

What more can be said about one of the most successful one man shows in South African theatre history? Celebrating its 10 year anniversary, The Chilli Boy is back at the festival where it all started in 2002. During this time it has enjoyed many sell-out seasons in Durban, Johannesburg and Cape Town and even in London’s West End.

This play has an improbable story line. Even the tag line to the title The Hilarious Story of an Indian Woman Reincarnated as a White Gangster from Boksburg beggars belief. Yet the amazing Mathew Ribnick pulls off this brilliantly crafted piece of theatre and delivers a master class in comedy acting. His comedy timing is impeccable and the energy he brings to the role is stunning.

On a bare stage and using only a few hats and a sari as props, Ribnick brings to life a cast of characters who had the sold-out audience roaring with laughter and delight.

He effortlessly switches between an Indian grandmother, her son, Troy the Boksburg gangster, a whole slew of his friends and associates, and Troy’s delightful mother.

Writer and director Geraldine Naidoo and Ribnick himself are extraordinary observers of the many cultures and colourful characters that make up our rainbow nation and have succeed splendidly in translating this for the stage.

If you haven’t seen The Chilli Boy don’t miss it. If you have seen it, go again - you won’t be disappointed. The next performances at the Glennie Hall are on July 6 at 20h00 and July 7 at 10h00. – Keith Millar