Chronicle Editor
Natasha Mutsiba, [email protected]
THE highly anticipated South African comedy play Amagrootman, featuring Limpopo veteran actors Seboni Lekatse, Zondi Ndlovu, and Chukudu Manaka, is set to showcase at the Intwasa Arts Festival KwaBulawayo at the Bulawayo Theatre today.
The play, written by Solly Hlabirwa Malaka and directed by Nape Thatale Motebejane, is a hard-hitting and energetic masterpiece that explores the lives of three hostel dwellers and best friends.
The story revolves around Jozi, one of the main characters, who receives an unexpected call from his long-lost girlfriend expressing her desire to visit him. Excitedly, Jozi shares the news with his friends, but soon realises that he won’t be able to properly welcome his guest if he can’t resolve a personal issue. In an attempt to help Jozi, his friends recommend a strange concoction for him to drink, leading to unexpected and hilarious consequences.
Amagrootman has garnered widespread acclaim for its ability to seamlessly blend comedy with thought-provoking themes such as prostate cancer, infidelity, poverty, and forced communal residency.
The play has previously captivated audiences in Harare, Limpopo, and Gauteng.
The trio of veteran actors, affectionately known as “Die ou Topies,” have been entertaining audiences for over 40 years and continue to impress with their acting prowess and range.
Seboni Lekatse portrays Principala Panyapanya, Chukudu Manaka takes on the roles of Mr Lithebe and Majakathatha, while Zondi Ndlovu brings to life Mr Wadrobe and Ke bona boloi, braBizza.
Their performances in Amagrootman have left audiences in stitches, with their chemistry and comedic timing being hailed as a marvel to watch. The play’s success is a testament to the talent and experience of these veteran actors, who have undoubtedly earned the recognition and honours bestowed upon them by the Arts and Culture Department in Limpopo.
Malaka, Amagrootman writer and Managing Director for Places and Faces Theatre Productions said the comedy play highlights the detrimental effects of African men’s reluctance to openly communicate about their relationship problems.
“Amagrootman is a piece that conveys the history of African men. Men don’t talk if they are having a serious relationship problem. They end up taking wrong decision by leaving their families, killing themselves and taking a drug that can make them forget” he said,
It’s going to be a busy week at the Intwasa Arts Festival KwaBulawayo, taking place from Tuesday to Saturday, as there will be a wide range of activities such as various theatre plays, poetry, and dance competition among others and events happening throughout the festival. —@TashaMutsiba
Online Reporter