March ushers in an exciting array of stage productions with “Molly Street” at the Theatre on the Square among the offerings.
This production is set during the socio-political limitations of pre-colonial Zimbabwe.
Written and directed by Peter Churu, “Molly Street” is based on a folk tale of a young woman caught in the brutal realities of her time circa ‘60s.
Starring Chidochangu Jo Anne Tenga with Patrick Tembo, this powerful play unpacks how Molly, after being murdered in a crime of passion, haunts the town in search of justice.
As such, local authorities named a street in her honour, an act that defied social norms.
In a recent chat with Churu, he shed light on the genesis of the production, especially the emotional gender-based violence theme.
"Crimes of passion are on the increase and an assault on women's rights. This production will challenge us all to do all we can to be our sister's keeper,” explained Churu.
Of course, it is not often that the supernatural is unpacked in a play.
The director shared: “Zimbabwe is a melting pot of cultures. Various people came in from various parts of the continent and world. Injustices occurred and the cultural justice system is driven by those supernatural forces. The spirit of Molly comes back after her murderer disappears before the resolution of the murder case.”
He continued: “Societies have been riddled with GBV crises. There is a need for all of us to do all we can to address this crisis. Patriarchy has largely been responsible for the combined GBV and MeToo challenge. Society needs to realign itself to effect an equal justice system for all.”
Expanding on the casting process, Churu revealed: “The legend of Molly suggests a woman of specific build and beauty. Initially, the producers inadvertently went the typecasting route. That failed dismally as the original actress did not embrace the psychology of the character.
“The final actress did not have the physical embodiment of Molly but was totally in tune with all other aspects of the story.”
On juggling the hat of writer and director, he admitted: “The writer will tend to dominate the relationship. In the end, the writer has been allowed dominance but it is advisable and desirable to separate the two roles. This time, the result has been successful.”
Churu added: “‘Molly Street’ is what we have termed immersive theatre. The dynamic of the play brings the performer and audience together in community. The intimacy of the Theatre on the Square is a definite advantage for this production.”
Overall, “Molly Street” is a poignant tale of love, loss and justice from beyond the grave.
Where: Theatre on the Square.
When: March 4 to 8.
Cost: Tickets start from R180 and can be purchased through Quicket.
You Strike a Woman, You Strike a Rock
This is another empowering production worth checking out.
First created in 1986 by director Phyllis Klotz with Thobeka Maqhutyana, Nomvula Qosha and Poppy Tsira forming the cast, this play is still a classic and relevant in today’s world.
The story centres on Sdudla, Mambhele and Mampompo, who live and work in a township in Cape Town, trying to eke out a living in a world that is divided by race, social status and economy
They encounter many hurdles just to be able to hold down a job.
Meanwhile, the men from their lives are in urban areas working as cheap migrant labour. The men in their lives have migrated to urban areas to work for low wages.
Day in and day out, these women try and maintain a family environment amid the fear brought on by constant police surveillance.
The themes of gender activism and gender parity are as pertinent today as it was five decades ago.
Directed by Rorisang Matube, this production stars Ziaphora Dakile, Kitty Moepang and Barileng Malebye.
Where: The Lesedi at Joburg Theatre.
When: Runs until March 9, times vary between 11am and 3pm.
Cost: Tickets cost between R100 to R200 and can be purchased through Webtickets. No under 15’s allowed.
My Children, My Africa
Currently a set work, this is a three-character play that takes place towards the final days of apartheid and centres on Mr. M, a black professor, Thami, his black student, and Isabel, a white student from across town.
Both students are at the top of their class. However, when they come together to debate gender equality, the fabric of their friendship is tested by their polarised views on the topic, which is influenced by the politics of the time.
Where: Opera Theatre at The SA State Theatre.
When: March 3 to 20, 11am.
Cost: Tickets cost R100 and can be purchased through Webtickets.