A theatre organisation in Alex is rehearsing a play that will resonate well with those who are passionate about African identity and values.
OliveTree Theatre based at Yarona Mall in Wynberg is a platform for aspiring and creative actors and artists. It enables them to explore their creativity to full potential and the plays are helping to regenerate the community’s interest in theatre.
Theatre founder Ntsieng Mokgoro said their role was to use community theatre as a link for theatre professionals to residents who yearn for polished shows. “In the process the professionals will also help to mentor the up and coming actors to be professionals,” she said.
Since inception, the theatre has produced several plays which have received good reviews. The theatre’s current play, Difela le Maboko (hymns and poems) is a story about a young man who responds to a spiritual voice and calling, to help society rediscover its morals and values as part of a healing process.
The play was conceptualised by Gospel Ngwato who plays the main character. Ngwato said the play sought to reawaken African people’s memory of where they come from, how they coped with adversity in the past, and to remind them of the importance of lessening their dependency on other cultures when resolving their challenges. “Its a message about affirming oneself, self pride and rededication to ones’ roots,” he said.
The play has six cast members and will premiere at the theatre from 24 September to 7 October.
The theatre’s previous productions include Paradise Fall, Too Late and The Seed.
Ntsieng appeals to professional artists, poets, comedians and musicians from Alex and elsewhere wanting to give back to the community or mentor up and coming artists to contact her.
Details: Ntsieng; 081 356 3399
