Woza Albert. To 28 October.

Tour.

WOZA ALBERT
by Percy Mtwa, Mbongeni Ngema and Barney Simon.

mac Productions in association with the South African State Theatre.
Tour to 1 December 2007.
Runs: 2hr One interval .
Review: Jan Pick 4 October at mac Birmingham.

The ‘son’ will surely rise.
A simple set in the small space of the MAC theatre serves as the arena for a powerful reminder of South Africa’s recent past as an infamous police state, and of the tragedy and injustice of its evil regime.

This inspirational play written by Percy Mtwa, Mbongeni Ngema and Barney Simon is based on the idea that the second coming of Christ happens in South Africa at the height of apartheid. The versatility of the two actors, Philip ‘Tipo’ Tindisa and Lincoln James, is impressive as they create a range of characters from South African security forces and government officials to poor township blacks desperate for a pass and work in the city to provide for their families.

The notion of the consequences of the return of Jesus - called here by his African name, Morena - in the midst of such a situation is directed and performed with an ironic wry humour conveying both the deep cynicism of the Whites’ political manipulation and manoeuvring to use him to their advantage, and the more simple hopes and aspirations of the Blacks.

Although, in some ways Woza Albert has dated, it is a still a powerful indictment of the police state and a timely reminder of the power of belief to inspire hope in a possible future – a lesson still relevant in the struggle for freedom and equality in other embattled areas of the world.

This touring production is both educational and entertaining, reminding us all that politics can still be concerned with ideals and ethics not just expedience.

Mbongeni: Philip ‘Tipo’ Tindisa.
Percy: Lincoln James.

Director: Paul Jonathan Savage.
Lighting: Penny Gaize.
Design Consultant: Emma Thompson.

2007-10-09 01:47:31