(Reviews from the
artSMart team currently in Grahamstown at the 2015 National Arts Festival)
Poignant theatre bringing life to a real story. (Review by
Thomie Holtzhausen)
Based on the real life story of Alison Botha who was
brutally attacked and raped 20 years ago in Port Elizabeth and left for dead,
the play beautifully recollects a tale of absolute power, determination and
gratitude.
The story has been covered many times in the media coupled
with Alison Botha’s motivational talks around the globe. A stage adaptation of
the book on Alison’s journey by Marianne Thamm almost seemed like unnecessary
and outdated. Maralin Vanrenen’s adaptation, however, is brilliant and offers
captivating theatre.
Suanne Braun as Alison is remarkable. Having attended one of
Alison’s talks in the past, I at times felt as if it was Alison herself on
stage. Shaeleen Tobin skilfully adds comic relief in this sombre production as
a variety of characters. The male characters were less believable and were only
carried by a strong script. The horrible wigs also did not help.
A beautiful and effective set design by Dennis Hutchinson
supports Vanrenen’s hand and Jemma Kahn’s costumes are spot-on. - Thomie
Holtzhausen
For more information
on the National Arts Festival click on the banner advert at the top of this
page or visit www.nationalartsfestival.co.za
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