(Tevin Kunene as Lomov and Buhle Mazibuko as Natalya. Pic by Val
Adamson)
Uncomplicated and whimsical work offers good down to earth
entertainment. (Review by Keith Millar)
In recent times I have been fortunate enough to attend several
productions staged by the Durban University of Technology’s Department of Drama
and Production Studies at the Courtyard Theatre on the campus.
On each occasion I have been thoroughly impressed by the
quality of the work being produced by the staff and students of this
institution.
This standard has been maintained with their latest
production which is an excellent presentation of Anton Chekhov’s delightful
farce, The Proposal.
The Proposal is a
one act play set in Russia late in the 19th century. It is a simple tale in
which a young man (Lomov) wishes to propose marriage to the daughter (Natalya)
of his neighbour (Stepan). Lomov obtains Stephan’s permission, but every time
he attempts to propose to Natalya they lapse into arguments over unrelated
issues. In the end you are left wondering if they will ever get married or, if
they do, what would the marriage be like.
The central character of Lomov is played with some aplomb by
Tevin Kunene. It is a plum role as Lomov is a hypochondriac and as the pressure
mounts on him he suffers from all sorts of maladies from heart palpitations to
the vapours. Kunene makes the most of the comic possibilities of the situation
and delivers a first-rate performance.
Kagisho Tsimakwane puts in a strong comedy performance as
the elderly and blustering father, Stepan. Buhle Mazibuko as Natalya comes
across as a feisty young lady who is eager to be married if only she can get
Lomov to listen to her. Direction of the production is by Brian Pearce.
The Proposal is an
uncomplicated and whimsical work. It is quite charming and very amusing, and
offers good down to earth entertainment. Well worth a visit to the Courtyard
Theatre.
The Proposal runs nightly at 18h00 until August 16 at the
Courtyard Theatre, Gate 7, Ritson Campus, Steve Biko Road. Safe parking is
available at Gate 4, Steve Biko Campus, opposite the Courtyard Theatre. Tickets
R20 at the door. For more details phone Lebohang Sibisi on 031 373 2194. –
Keith Millar
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