This was a thought-provoking, creative and imaginative theatre performance that looked at known and unfamiliar issues in a novel way. I look forward to the future creative writings of Philisiwe Twijnstra who is making theatre in a very distinctive and unique manner. (Review by Verne Rowin Munsamy)
The Courtyard Theatre at DUT had recently re-opened its doors to the public to display Departmental Productions from years 1 to 3. The second-year production has, over the years, become synonymous with an isiZulu production, allowing students to perform in a home language for the majority of the student body. ITSHALI, which ran earlier this month, is written and directed by Philisiwe Twijnstra and translated into isiZulu by Sabatha Ngcobo.
ITSHALI refers to the grey blankets that are synonymous with isiZulu and isiXhosa traditions. The play questions the significant presence of tradition in modern-day situations. It challenges the oppressive impact that certain traditions have on women and the patriarchal system that aims to subjugate Black women. The narrative is episodic in nature, switching from present-day to memory and moments where the ancestors are felt intervening.
I was most impressed by the stylised nature of the show. The transitions were smooth and concise. I enjoyed the original composition directed by Siyabonga Ntinga. The set design was striking with a raised island in the middle of the stage and elevated steps at the back to house the ancestral figures. The crowd scenes were managed with finesse and created a lively atmosphere for all the action on stage. The chorus of extras was reminiscent of Greek theatre used in a very contemporary fashion.
The acting was impressive with many stand-out figures which is no easy task with a cast of more than 30 people. Stand-out performances for me came from Nontetelelo Ndwandwe, Sabelo Mngomezulu and Thandiwe Mbizani, to name a few. Look forward to seeing what these second-year students create in the future.
This was a thought-provoking, creative and imaginative theatre performance that looked at known and unfamiliar issues in a novel way. I look forward to the future creative writings of Philisiwe Twijnstra who is making theatre in a very distinctive and unique manner. - Verne Rowin Munsamy
For more information, see http://news.artsmart.co.za/2022/09/itshali.html
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