SCHOOL-GOING performers will come together to celebrate the work of iconic English playwright and poet William Shakespeare during the 2024 Shakespeare Schools Festival South Africa (SSFSA).
From “Macbeth” and “Romeo and Juliet” to “The Merry Wives of Windsor”, “Twelfth Night” and many more, theatregoers will be highly entertained as these plays take on a modern and African twist.
Known as Africa’s largest Shakespeare youth drama programme, SSFSA will take place from Monday, September 23, to Thursday, September 26, at the Durban University of Technology’s Courtyard Theatre.
Under the theme “Liberating Our Histories”, students from nine schools, including Maris Stella, Sastri College, Nhlanhlayethu Secondary School and Durban Girls Secondary, will take to the stage to present bite-sized Shakespeare plays that explore themes of love, identity, power and ambition, in an innovative way.
The festival, now in its 14th year, encourages diverse performance methods, from dance to spoken word. This is in a bid to create a platform for self-expression and inclusivity.
The SSFSA is passionate about combining African history and traditions as it aims to energise cultural renaissance and provide a journey of self-discovery and transformation.
The festival also seeks to share the stories, experiences and voices of enthusiastic school learners, drama societies and community youth groups from diverse backgrounds, cultures and with various physical abilities as they come together in the name of Shakespeare.
Since its inception in 2010, it has showcased over 650 productions, involving more than 9000 participants from over 730 schools.
According to the website: “The festival is fully interactive and provides guidance and resources through scripts, training, framework and feedback, allowing learners and educators to successfully direct and perform Shakespearean plays from the first line to the final bow.”
Where: The DUT Courtyard Theatre in Musgrave.
When: From Monday, September 23, to Thursday, September 26.
Cost: Tickets range from R50 to R70 and can be purchased through Webtickets.
Upcoming theatre shows in Durban.
“The Drop”
Actors Thamsanqa Khumalo, Ntokozo Khambule Mhlongo and Boy Nkala unite for a powerful performance in “The Drop”.
This captivating production follows a young educated couple who struggle to find employment because of the environment in which they live, where you need to be connected to get a job.
The wife finds herself working as a domestic for a tenderpreneur who, in turn, expects sexual favours for her to keep her job.
Having done this for a prolonged period of time, she decides to put an end to the sexual exploitation.
Written and directed by Durban theatre extraordinaire Zeph Nzama, the play includes elements of drama, humour, entertainment, conflict and education.
Where: The Playhouse Loft Theatre in Durban Central.
When: Thursday, October 3, to Saturday, October 5.
Cost: Ticket prices have not been announced yet but gor bookings, call 067 383 8703 or email: info@justintimeproductions.co.za.
“Show Offs”
The International School of Performing Arts (ISPA) is ready to put on a spectacular musical theatre showcase with “Show Offs”.
This production is set to feature the talented students of ISPA who will perform songs from legendary musicals such as “Les Miserables”, “Hamilton”, “Company” and “Anything Goes”.
Lisa Bobbert, an award-winning veteran stage actress and co-founder of ISPA, said: “We are thrilled to share the talents of our students with the north coast community. This showcase is a testament to all the hard work and dedication of our students and faculty.”
Fellow ISPA co-founder Aaron McIlroy, who is also an actor and an acting coach, added that he believes that the performing arts have the power to transform lives.
“We’re committed to helping students reach their full potential and we’re excited to share that with the community.”
Where: The Reddam House Theatre in Ballito.
When: October 15.
Cost: Tickets are R100 for adults and R80 for students and pensioners. They can be purchased through Webtickets or at Pick n Pay stores.