(Clockwise: Cyprian
Nzama, Thabani Mahlobo, Boyzen Nkala, Samkelo Dingi, Thandeka Mdlalose &
Khombisile Miya)
Gcugcwa Creative Productions presents Chasing Gold, its new show for school learners, in and around
Durban and Pietermaritzburg in May and June 2015.
Subtitled Mathematics!
It’s Not a Monster, the production is designed to take the fear out of
studying Maths, replacing it with a positive attitude towards the subject.
Chasing Gold tells
the story of a highly intelligent young girl from the Mtatasi Tribe. The only
stumbling block in her studies at school stems from her mental block with
regard to studying Maths. This results in low marks, and a negative self-image.
She becomes so depressed she is on the verge of committing suicide. Her mother
is also depressed, and even tries to consult a traditional healer for ‘muthi’
that will help her child pass the subject.
Because Maths has become a problem that affects the whole
Mtatasi Tribe, the King calls upon his people to help resolve the situation.
One intelligent youth comes up with a positive solution, and the young girl
finds help. The whole nation celebrates by performing a Mathematical dance and
Mathematical songs.
A vibrant and energetic show, both humorous and
entertaining, Chasing Gold is written and directed by Zeph Nzama with music by
Mthobisi Mthalane. The cast features Thandeka Mdlalose, Khombisile Miya,
Thabani Mahlobo, Cyprian Nzama, Samkelo Dingi and Boyzen Nkala. The production
is geared specifically for Grade 8 and Grade 9 learners, but learners from
other grades are also welcome.
Says the show’s creator, Zeph Nzama, about his production:
“Our charge is to bring depth, definition and clarity to young people’s
understanding and experience of Mathematics. The first step is to create an
environment that is informative, educational and fun, also reflecting the value
of contemporary learning in a relevant way. Our house style is used to create a
broader visual language that will communicate the Theatre Industry’s values and
the benefits its services offer to society.”
Chasing Gold will
be performed at Durban’s Stable Theatre from May 4 to 8 2015, three
performances daily at 09h00, 11h00 and 13h00 Monday to Friday.
Following its Stable Theatre run, the production will be
available between May 11 and 29 to tour to individual schools on request in the
Durban and Pietermaritzburg regions, as well as in nearby coastal towns
(minimum bookings of 350, smaller groups by arrangement). Thereafter, Chasing Gold will be performed between June
1 and 5 at the Hexagon Theatre on the Pietermaritzburg campus of UKZN, with
three performances daily at 09h00, 11h00 and 13h00 Monday to Friday.
Tickets R25 per learner. To secure bookings, contact
Bongamusa Nzama on 073 644 1882 or e-mail imbumbaartists@gmail.com