(Nomvula
Mbokazi, Xoliswa Ngema & Thulani Mngadi. Pic: Val Adamson)
Well-directed
drama that deals with abuse, hatred and vengeance. (Review by Caroline Smart)
As the
play opens, we see Emily (Xoliswa Ngema) entering in a state of tension and
agonised weeping, looking for comfort in her favourite music, a cigarette, and
a hidden bottle of alcohol.
Soon her
daughter Liza (Nomvula Mbokazi) arrives. She’s sulky and unco-operative about
the dinner her mother has set out so carefully but softens when she gives Emily
her birthday present.
It turns
out that it’s not only Emily’s birthday but that of her husband and it is also
their wedding anniversary. Liza wants none of this and we soon discover that
she hates him. Emily is eventually forced to sympathise and admit that they
have both suffered serious abuse from him.
The
drama moves into dangerous waters when the father, Nelson (Thulani Mngandi)
arrives unseen and overhears mother and daughter sharing their opinions of him.
From then on, it’s a full-on battle with Nelson holding all the cards … as well
as the firearm.
Last
Supper is written
by Ntando Mhlongo. His script is a powerful one. It deals with abuse of women,
deeply-lodged anger, and Nelson’s need to inflict on others the pain he experienced
as a child which has soured his whole life. This is regardless of the fact that
his target has made an abject apology. For him, the only answer is vengeance.
Under
the skilful direction of Themba Luthuli, the performers hold their audience
riveted throughout.
Xoliswa
Ngema gives the character of Emily a sense of innate dignity throughout,
desperately protecting her beloved daughter. Nomvula Mbokazi has some
impressive scenes alternating from fury to whimpering terror.
While
they are all first-rate in their roles, it is Thulani Mngandi who gives a
standout performance. From the moment he enters, the atmosphere crackles with
tension. This is a difficult role which could easily dip into a shouting match
but he holds it all together with sure control while allowing the mercurial
moods and occasional relaxed moments of roguish charm their full value.
Last Supper is the kind of production we are beginning
to see at Stable Theatre. Tightly and effectively written, skilfully directed
and professionally performed.
I also
hope that we will see more of Themba Luthuli’s work. This is a man who has much
experience in the performing arts and it shows in this production. If you like
your drama searing and edgy, don’t miss this!
Presented
by Ebukhosini Productions in association with Stable Theatre, Last Supper runs for just over an hour
without interval and has three more performances: tomorrow (Saturday March 29)
at 14h00 and 18h00 and (Sunday March 30) at 15h00. Tickets R40 available at the
door or booked through Computicket on 0861 915 8000 at Shoprite Checkers
outlets, or online at www.computicket.com – Caroline Smart
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