Prepare for a session of laughter at the Square

Audiences of both shows Country Duty and The New Abnormal impressed after opening night in Sandton.

Fiona Ramsay, Khutjo Green, Nhlanhla Shabangu and Mike van Graan are all smiles after a positive first public viewing of the shows. Photo: Motlatsi Mailula

The latest joint production Country Duty and The New Abnormal that’s currently previewing at the Theatre on the Square in Sandton is guaranteed to leave audiences in tears from laughter, questioning the state of their government and plotting ways to escape the country.

The New Abnormal follows a character portrayed by an upcoming actor and stand-up comedian, Nhlanhla Shabangu, who wittingly mocks South Africa’s past and present current affairs.

The stand-up commentary which broke the fourth wall addressed numerous topics that made front-page news: from the R22m flag project used to support the ‘steal’ industry to the controversial public stance on the coronavirus vaccines.

Mike van Graan hopes that more individuals share a laugh at the Theatre on the Square. Photo: Motlatsi Mailula

“I’ve never experienced a stand-up commentary before and what I can say is that it was well written and performed. I guess in order for the director and the performer to address such issues without touching a nerve it had to be humorous and thought-provoking, the end result was great and I enjoyed it,” said Vanessa Banton after watching The New Abnormal.

Khutjo Green (Generations, Skeem Saam and Guilt actress), who is no stranger to the big screen, carried the torch in the second production, Country Duty, directed by Fiona Ramsey. The production invites viewers to the world of a whistleblower through the eyes of Tumi (portrayed by Green).

Ebrahim Fakir and Vanessa Banton await the second show with excitement. Photo: Motlatsi Mailula

The protagonist battles her corrupt employers, family and society through her resilience in wanting to expose her company.

“In South Africa, the expense of doing the right thing is still frowned upon and receives little reward in society. It takes courage and bravery to correct the wrongs of society. You could relate to the character through her emotions,” commented Vuyelwa Vuyisea on Country Duty.

Both shows received standing ovations and cheers from both the directors and audiences.

Maluleke Vuyisea with her sister Vuyelwa share their opinions on both shows. Photo: Motlatsi Mailula

Mike van Graan (playwright), Fiona Ramsey (head of department for theatre and performance at Wits School of Arts) and Green were behind the creation of both productions. Tickets are available at the Theatre on the Square in Sandton. Last day of viewing on June 11.

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