ASKARI is a story of freedom fighters and community activists who are turned to be deadly assassins, double agents, informers and intelligence analysts. It tells the story of men and women who infiltrated organized civic movements and student organisations for recruiting unsuspecting youth and influential leaders. This story interrogates the decisions that led to their choice of turning from community activists to mass killers. The story goes deep into the personal account of these individuals who administered pain, fear and death. These stories of betrayal, death, redemption, and forgiveness are captured through dazzling music, dance, and powerful storytelling.

This action packed production is based on real events, the action-packed political thriller relates the story of freedom fighters who were double agents, informers and intelligence analysts, and deadly assassins for the Vlakplaas counterinsurgency unit that specialised in executing and torturing anti-apartheid activists

The play seeks to honour the struggle heroes who died in the torture chambers of Vlakplaas and also reconcile the nation.

Presented by the SAST in association with Mantimakhulu PTY LTD and the Market Theatre, the production takes a musical play format with captivating choreography being accompanied by score from a six-piece band featuring Nhlapo and Cromwell Modungwa as Musical Directors. Original cast members including Abongile Matyutyu (as Thomas Maseko), Soyiso Ndaba (Boboza Khumalo), Monica Muller (Marita Swanepoel), and Kagiso Matlala (Thembi Madida) reprise their roles as Actor Wilf Mahne assumes the villain character of Gert Swanepoel.

ASKARI is a pulsating political thriller filled with high action, impeccable visual aesthetics and its hugely entertaining production that you cannot afford to miss!

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PRODUCTION INFORMATION:

Writers                                  Sello Maseko and Mdu Nhlapo

Director                                Sello Maseko

Musical Directors            Mdu Nhlapo and Cromwell Modungwa

Choreographer:                 Mdu Nhlapo

Set Designer:                       Masai Sepuru

Performers:

Wilf Mahne (as Gert Swanepoel)

Abongile Matyutyu (Thomas Maseko)

Soyiso Ndaba (Boboza Khumalo)

Monica Muller (Marita Swanepoel)

Kagiso Matlala (Thembi Madida)

Nhlakanipho Mkongi (Thembi Madida)

Teboho Tladi (Kedibone Modiga)

Boipelo Charlotte Mokaila (Thokozile Madida)

Muzi Masikane (Askari)

Sibonelo Mchunu (Askari)

Thabiso Mfusi (Askari)

Season:                                              Thursday 20 – 23 Sunday 2022 

Venue:                                                The John Kani

Performance times:                    Thursday – Saturday @19h00 and Sunday @15h00

Ticket prices:                                  Thursday R90

Friday – Saturday R150

Sunday – R130

To make block bookings and discounts please contact Anthony Ezeoke 011 832 1641ext 203/ 083 246 4950 or Bandile Luvalo 078 4344 860

For further information, interviews and images, contact:

Lusanda Zokufa 072 367 7867 or lusandaz@markettheatre.co.za and Desmond Mathebula 062 329 4741 or desmondm@markettheatre.co.za

“I am especially excited as House of Pink Vol. 2 has also become a platform for queer artists who have been previously sidelined from performing on mainstream platforms such as of the Market Theatre stature. As we celebrate Pride Month, let’s also Celebrate each other as a people as  human, see each other, respect each other and most importantly let’s show each other Respect through Love. I am Truly Honoured once again to be Directing this Exceptional Drag show with 6 Beautiful Drag Artists” said Lebogang Toko.

House of Pink Vol 2 will not only bring to the fore important issues that relate to the struggles and lived experiences of Queer people in South Africa, but will also celebrate and elevate Queer artistry.

Drag is consistently breaking down gender norms and can thus be seen as ‘gender bending’. The art of drag allows one to transform oneself into absolutely anything. It is over the top, unapologetic and commands attention. Drag is AUDACIOUS!  

The artistry of drag is the ultimate colourful form of self-expression. House of Pink Volume 2 celebrates the art form in all its majestic glory with fun and laughter.

House of Pink Volume 2 will leave audiences breathlessly gushing over every diva on stage! Join us for an experience of a lifetime for as little as R150 per ticket!

Brace yourselves for a night of fierceness, fun and great entertainment.