(Sipho Mahlatshana as
Plaatje, David Dukas as Rhodes, Frank Graham as Dr Smartt
and Jeremy Richard as
Lt Col Kekewich. Pic by Philip Kuhn)
Peter Feldman’s review
of “Hinterland” is published on artSMart with his permission and courtesy of www.artslink.co.za
When Cecil John Rhodes met Sol Plaatje – Review by Peter Feldman
(04/09/2015)
Even though it was penned three years ago, Hinterland could not have come at a more
opportune time in the light of recent events that unfolded in Cape Town over
the removal of the Cecil John Rhodes statue at the university.
This play has remarkable relevance and is a stark reminder
of how history has shaped our continent.
The witty script is brilliantly written by Duncan Buwalda,
who displays enormous insight into the politics of the time, and cleverly
introduces a fascinating concept by having another political icon, Sol Plaatje,
become part of the action, though in reality the two never met.
The interaction between these two characters forms the
foundation of a play that gives a fresh perspective on Rhodes as a man and as a
visionary, and Plaatje, a gifted and versatile journalist and activist, who
also had an important role to play in the history of the country.
By placing these individuals together in a hotel during the
Siege of Kimberly, and exploring the various ramifications involved, make for
engrossing theatre and director Caroline Smart has done a solid job in this
area. At times, though, the actors’ grouping could have been more imaginative,
especially in the case of the scenes between Colonel Kekewich and Rhodes which
was devoted to a small corner of the stage where the audience mostly had side
views of the players.
Themes on racism, homosexuality, the Native problem, diamond
mines and the Anglo-Boer conflict are neatly woven into the fabric of the
script and there is plenty of food for thought as various arguments are
explored.
The plays opens with Rhodes’ rotund Scottish physician, Dr
Smartt (Frank Graham), setting the tone with some political background.
A young Sol Plaatje (Sipho Mahlatshana) has been hired as a
typist to Cecil John Rhodes (David Dukas) whose initial hostility to the black
man soon softens as their unique relationship gets underway.
Mahlatshana’s character evolves from being respectful of
Rhodes’ stature in the beginning to maturing into a personality who finally
faces his former boss on equal intellectual terms. And the actor pulls of this
transformation most convincingly.
David Dukas makes a well-rounded and imposing Rhodes, a man
of the world, who knows his destiny and is prepared to fight for what he
believes, is right.
The fourth character is the British Army officer, Colonel
Kekewich, played by Jeremy Richard, in an ill-fitting uniform, who provides the
character with the necessary stiff-upper lip military demeanour.
This fascinating and insightful production is enhanced by
the evocative music and impressive set.
Hinterland is on
at the Auto & General Theatre on the Square until 25 April. – Peter Feldman
“Hinterland” runs at
the Auto and General Theatre on the Square until April 25 with performances
from Tuesday to Saturday at 20h15 and Saturdays at 18h00 and 20h30. Bookings
can be made by calling the theatre on 011 883-8606, Strictly Tickets on 082 553
5901 or book online: www.strictlytickets.com
Enquire about group
discounts and dinner show packages. This season of “Hinterland” is supported by
the Arts & Culture Trust.
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