(Numbers that anchor vs methods that float
us... Review by Verne Rowin Munsamy)
In my early 30s, I
had the privilege of working with the late wonderful writer-director Clinton
Marius. Not only was I fortunate enough to bring his play Fantastic Flea Circus to NAF, but I also got to work with my best
friend and award-winning actress Shona Noble.
What I remember most about the show, apart from the sheer pleasure of bringing entertainment to kids, was the amount of energy it takes to keep young minds engaged for an hour. So, when I met two graduated students of mine at NAF I pounced at the opportunity to watch their children's theatre show.
The Playroom, written by Sinovuyo Nqwili and Nwabisa Mbamba (also the director), is about using the Montessori teaching method to create an unconventional, safe learning space for learners who find it difficult to keep up with mainstream educational systems. I loved the way theatre, education, and elements of participatory children's theatre are woven together to create a piece of theatre that captivates audiences both young and old.
The story follows a young boy, brilliant at fixing gadgets but struggling in math in school. His teachers, parent, and other kids have labelled him a dunce and he himself is reluctant to go to school. The ploy also covers themes of bullying, abuse, but most importantly the reluctance of certain individuals to give up on family and friends. The underlying message is that we need to give kids the room to learn at their own pace and in areas that interest them. The repeated moto is that "I am capable, I am not stupid, I will come out on top".
This motto is repeated in the show and taught to audiences. The show is filled with dance, amazing singing, and fantastic characters suitable for children's theatre. I was thoroughly entertained as a grown 'child' and proud to see my graduated kids making theatre that has entertainment and educational value and anti-bullying undertones.
Bravo to the team, I anticipate more revolutionary theatre from you. - Verne Rowin Munsamy