A production exploring corruption at Joburg Theatre
JOBURG – Actors tackle issues of corruption and fraud.
In recognition of Johannesburg Mayor Herman Mashaba’s campaign to stamp out fraud and corruption in the City; Joburg City Theatres presents The Mother of All Eating written by Zakes Mda and directed by Makhaola Siyanda Ndebele.
Following a successful run at The Market Theatre in 2014, this two-man satire will be staged across Joburg Theatre, Soweto Theatre and Roodepoort Theatre for all government departments starting from 8 February.
Featuring acclaimed actors in the industry, Mpho Osei-Tutu and Pusetso Thibedi, this production explores an unfortunate culture of corruption called ‘eating’. Relevant to South Africa’s current affairs, this culture has become synonymous with corrupt state officials who seek to enrich themselves through government deals and looting public funds.
Set in Lesotho in the 1980s, this timeless classic by Mda exposes the greed, the destructive mind-sets and the tragic effects of corruption.
“Corruption is prevalent worldwide and now more than ever, it is talked about openly and we see officials exposed on a daily basis across the globe”, says Makhaola Ndebele.
The play center’s around “The Man” (the principal secretary in government). The Man is corrupt to the core, and has thoroughly enriched himself within the ranks of his government. He is the main figure involved in a recent government tender deal gone wrong. The deal comes to haunt him; causing his extravagant life to come to an abrupt end.
“It is important to tell locally relevant stories that will resonate with our state, people and portray how corruption indeed hinders not only on the investment of the country’s economy but also how it effects the ordinary citizen,” said Ndebele.
The Mother of All Eating was first performed at Sechaba Hall, Victoria Hotel in Maseru, Lesotho in 1992. It enjoyed great popularity in Maseru, and subsequently toured in Europe. In 2010, the play was produced for a new generation at the Drama for Life SA Theatre Season Honouring the Archive: Theatre, Memory and Social Justice. The play then travelled to Botswana and Lesotho where it was warmly received. In 2012, it was staged at the Arts Alive International Festival in Johannesburg.
Performances are free but bookings are essential.
Details: www.joburgtheatre.com
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