Alex’s Olivetree Theatre is becoming the spot of choice for art lovers keen to ease into the weekend’s leisure life through a good dose of entertainment.
This was evident when a diverse audience converged on the theatre to savour a spellbinding play, Fresh Footprints, on its opening night.
The play lived up to expectations with a standing ovation from invited guests. And to many who braved the chilly evening, Fresh Footprints represents a story that needs to be told.
The play depicts the life of a 20-year-old girl, Matsidiso, also known as Tsidi, who is lured to the glitz and glamour of Joburg from the safety of her rural family. After her father dies, Tsidi and her sister come to the big city and end up turning to turn to prostitution in order to survive.
In her struggle for survival, Tsidi gets a moment to reflect on her lifestyle and realises she is leaving herself vulnerable to many health and physical dangers from beatings and exploitation by customers and pimps. This creates a deep-seated pain in her which she feels only spiritual healing from her ancestors can provide. Tsidi decides to return home, leaving her sister behind.
“Despite the common message, the story should be told and retold to help other likely victims of the elusive lure to eke out a living in familiar territory,” said Nhlanhla Mabizela one of the audience members.
The play, written by the internationally-acclaimed author, Prof. Wally Serote, is directed by theatre founder and winner of several awards, Ntsieng Mokgoro, and features world-class acting by Princess Tshabangu.
Details: Olivetree Theatre 011 048 6152.
