Elzabé Zietsman: Vier Panado’s en ‘n Chardonnay’

Elzabé Zietsman: Vier Panado’s en ‘n Chardonnay’ 

 

The Market Theatre prescribes Vier Panado’s en ‘n Chardonnay The Market Theatre, Drama Drama and Zietsies Restaurant proudly present Vier Panado’s en ‘n Chardonnay, an award-winning cabaret by legendary performer, Elzabé Zietsman. Its performances are scheduled every Thursday for four weeks, starting from 24 October 2024, at the Market Theatre’s newly refurbished Gramadoelas space. In the cabaret, Zietsman is accompanied by exceptional pianist and music director, Tony Bentel, a long-standing collaboration that brings together these stage veterans with nearly 100 years of combined experience. The show consists of a diverse repertoire of songs spanning Weimar-era cabarets, stripped-down renditions of contemporary hits and a few original compositionsis seamlessly woven with personal stories. Vier Panado’s en ‘n Chardonnay is an edgy work of honesty and critical reflection, laced with humour, through which Zietsman narrates her real life story in celebration of her own resilience, and that of her fellow South Africans. The 75-minute cabaret entertains while unpacking multiple adversities such as the kleptocracy robbing the country blind, crime, unemployment and other social ills. Zietsman recognises our courageous ability to produce positive outcomes despite our country’s challenges, as illustrated by the collective joy we feel when our athletic and artistic excellences are showcased on world stages. “Resilience is not just the ability to bounce back from adversity, but also refers to the capacity to adapt to a changing environment.

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In today’s world, we need it more than ever, and Vier Panado’s en ‘n Chardonnay is a celebration of South Africans’ resilience and our ability to laugh at ourselves (and others),” Zietsman says. For its brilliant narrative and musical performance, the production won a Kanna Award for Best Offering: Music at the 2024 Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees (KKNK). It is also nominated for Best Achievement: Contemporary Music – Solo/Duo at the recent 2024 Woordfees, and has received two nominations at Aardklop for Best Music Performance and Best Music-Driven Production. The cabaret is the first in a series of upcoming programming of the recently refurbished and repurposed Gramadoelas space at the Market Theatre, which can now offer an alternative space for intimate gatherings alongside its core theatre experience. Greg Homann, Artistic Director at the Market Theatre Foundation, described the decision to use Gramadoelas as a deliberate move to reactivate the space and diversify the Market Theatre’s value offering. Homann shares, “Staging this wonderful piece of work at the Gramadoelas is the next step towards the regular use of the venue as a multi-functional space. It’s part of the new energy we have injected into our offering, ensuring that we give our audiences experiences that go beyond our dedicated theatre venues.” So, each Thursday from 24 October – 14 November 2024, bring all the headaches unique to being South African to the Market Theatre for your prescription of Vier Panados en ‘n  Chardonnay, written with sharp comedy and biting satire. Tickets via Webtickets cost R400 including dinner prepared from Elzabé Zietsman’s restaurant, Zietsies, or at R200 excluding food.ENDS

Zwakala Festival

‘Fatherhood’
by Alex Theatre Company and Academy - Zwakala Festival

Follow the heart- wrenching story of four young boys, raised by single mothers, struggling to comprehend the void left by their absent fathers. As they navigate the challenges of growing up in broken homes, they grapple with emotional turmoil and distorted views of masculinity. FATHERHOOD delves into the complex issues surrounding absent fathers in our communities, exposing the emotional scar that linger.

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‘Pieces of a Woman’
by Mimo and Many More Productions - Zwakala Festival

Join Nomathemba Khumalo on her poignant journey, as she leaves her homeland with her beloved to chase a brighter future in the city. Beneath the glittering façade, their love is tested by harsh realities. ‘’PIECES OF A WOMAN’’ is a powerful exploration of one woman’s unyielding strength, a journey of love, loss and resilience, celebrating the strength of women who rise above adversity.

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‘Mollo’
by Army of God - Zwakala Festival

Meet Mollo, a young soccer sensation with a passion to win the prestigious 30th Soccer Challenge. As the son of a traditional healer, Mollo’s life is intertwined with ancient customs and spiritual forces. When he meets his soulmate, their love seems destined. However, their families’ century-old feud, rooted in spiritual rivalry, threatens to tear them apart. Embracing his destiny, Mollo discovers hidden strengths. With his dreams within reach, Mollo must balance his ancestral heritage and soccer stardom. Will he find harmony between his two worlds?

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‘Kgetsi’
by Art is Creative Forum - Zwakala Festival

This poignant drama follows the interconnected lives of four women, each grappling with the lasting impacts of childhood trauma: shattered self-identity and unrelenting emotional scars. In a courageous quest for justice, they take stand, sharing their heart- wrenching stories. Will the law provide solace, or will it perpetuate the cycle of pain? “KGETSI’’ explores the complex intersection of trauma, identity and the pursuit of justice.

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Sikelela… the road to the Barbican

Sikelela… the road to the Barbican
(No under 18s)

Due to circumstances beyond our control, Sikelela… The Road to the Barbican has been postponed to Saturday 9 November 2024. Unfortunately, Thandi Ntuli and Keenan Meyer are on tour and won’t be able to join us for the new date, so we have invited some amazing friends to join us: Maleh, Buhlebendalo, Bokani Dyer & Andile Yenana and Litsomo.

All previous tickets remain valid, if you cannot make the new date and/or would like a refund please call the Market Theatre box office. Thank you for your understanding and we look forward to seeing you at Sikelela on Saturday 9 November 2024

Sikelela celebrates a tradition of Ingoma as a practice in the intimate exercise of liberation in action.  

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The line-up is curated by The Brother Moves On’s Siyabonga Mthembu and pianist, composer, singer Thandi Ntuli.

Taking the cue from the word Sikelela meaning “blessing” – from the first phrase in the South African national anthem – this event celebrates a tradition of Ingoma as a practice in the intimate exercise of liberation in action. This special concert invites the visionaries from the current scene which is referred to as the avant-garde of the Jazz and live music scene from South Africa.

Opening the Matinee show we have Litsomo – a collaborative project featuring your favourite indie folk storytellers Leomile, Muneyi and Kekelingo. Bokani Dyer and Andile Yenana in duo format, will showcase the beauty of keys and synths. Closing out the matinee show we have The Brother Moves On featuring Tumi Mogorosi and Malcolm Jiyane. The matinee show is PG friendly, so parents bring your kids for a musical blessing.

For the evening show we will open with the soilsista force that is Buhlebendalo, moving into The Brother Moves On featuring Tumi Mogorosi, Malcolm Jiyane and Zu. and we will close the show with the Musical Queen of Maseru Maleh.

Matinee – Doors 15:00

Opening Act: Litsomo

Second Act: Bokani Dyer & Andile Yenana

Closing Act: The Brother Moves On featuring Tumi Mogorosi and Malcolm Jiyane

Evening – Doors 19:00

Opening Act: Buhlebendalo

Second Act: The Brother Moves On featuring Tumi Mogorosi, Malcolm Jiyane and Zu.

Closing Act: Maleh

The show is proudly produced by Akum Agency and The Dig with support by The Department of Sports, Arts & Culture and SAMRO. We look forward to seeing you at the Market Theatre on Saturday 9th November 2024 for Sikelela… The Road To The Barbican.

Media interviews: jess@akumagency.com

SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram Handles of the Promoters: @akumagency @thedig_za

Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/546615411106667/

Kwasha!

kwasha!

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS: 2025 KWASHA! THEATRE COMPANY

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS: 2025 KWASHA! THEATRE COMPANY

The Market Theatre Foundation is excited to announce a call for applications for the Kwasha! Theatre Company for 2025. We invite passionate and innovative theatre makers to apply for this enriching opportunity.

Kwasha! was launched in 2018 in partnership with Windybrow Arts Centre, and Market Theatre Laboratory as a theatre company project that seeks to develop theatre practitioners in South Africa.

Kwasha! is a theatre company that gives a year’s worth of professional experience to emerging actors, as well as a stipend and professional exposure to enable space and time for young practitioners to develop skills and capacities towards being professionals in the sector.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Must have graduated from a reputable institution within the last five years
  • Must be under the age of 35
  • Must be a South African citizen

 How to Apply: To apply, please submit a PDF version of your CV and a motivation letter to windybrow@markettheatre.co.za by 31st October 2024.

 Audition Process:

  • Shortlisted applicants will be required to submit a video audition by 17th November 2024.
  • Final auditions will take place in person from 3rd – 5th December 2024.

Experience the Magic of Mantsopa: A Special Invitation to the Market Theatre

Experience the Magic of Mantsopa: A Special Invitation to the Market Theatre

The Market Theatre Foundation invites you to celebrate 200 years of Basotho heritage with an exclusive staged reading of Mantsopa, Dr. Jerry Mofokeng Wa Makhetha’s latest work-in-progress.
 
Mantsopa tells the story of a powerful prophetess who guided King Moshoeshoe through challenging times, highlighting the often-overlooked role of women in history. This event coincides with the 58th anniversary of Lesotho’s independence, making it a special celebration of Basotho culture and legacy.
 
Expect an engaging reading with musical elements that will leave you humming Basotho tunes long after. Wear your traditional Seshoeshoe or kobo and join us for this cultural celebration!
 
Event Details:
 
Date: 5 October 2024  
Time:14h00 for 15h00  
Venue: John Kani Theatre, The Market Theatre
Mantsopa Invite
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RSVP: Webtickets or  Mamello Khomongoe at mamellok@markettheatre.co.za

SIDA !HUB

SIDA !HUB

PLACING FOCUS ON CULTURE THAT IS MINORITISED TO COMMEMORATE HERITAGE MONTH

The Market Theatre Laboratory in partnership with the National Heritage Council will bring Heritage Month to a close at The Market Theatre Foundation by hosting a weeklong programme from 26 – 29 September 2024. The programme will celebrate the histories of minoritised identities and galvanise hope and action towards further protection and cultivation of projects that seek to unite, challenge and develop a sustainable democracy.

The programme will place focus on the stories of minoritised culture and identities to celebrate indigenous language systems and indigenous stories. It will also make room for indigenous narratives and languages to take up space in our creative spaces.

As part of the celebrations, The Lab presents their next Theatre Think Tank instalment, curated by artist-researcher Pule kaJanolintji (Tūkx’aoseb) together with the presentation of Swartwater, a theatre production by Nama Khoi Productions. For the Theatre Think Tank, titled Sida !Hūb: Performing The Land, Pule will bring together two panellists to share their embodied knowledge and research. Collectively, they will tell the story of how land is culture and culture is land, placing minoritised culture and identities at the forefront of the conversation.

The Lab’s Theatre Think Tanks serve as an invaluable exploration and reflection on the wealth of knowledge enacted, embodied and performed by practitioners in the arts, culture and heritage field. The specific aim is to gather, organise and ultimately draw on the knowledge of local communities, making this accessible to the greater community. 

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This Heritage Month iteration of the Theatre Think Tank will unpack the notion of how minoritisation of culture is the dispossession of land, especially when it comes to issues of indigeneity and authenticity. If you are engaged in the arts, or are just curious, don’t miss the Sida !Hūb: Performing The Land Theatre Think Tank which starts at 12h00 on Sunday, 29 September 2024 at The Market Square in Newtown.

The Think Tank is a FREE event.

The production, Swartwater, tells the story about the losses experienced by the Nama Khoi indigenous people during the discovery of diamonds in the 1900s. The story follows a Nama family as they face the painful reality of once again being asked to uproot their lives and leave Swartwater, for the Cape Colony. Through the eyes of Tieles, who is in the process of departing Swartwater, audiences are taken on an emotional journey of profound loss as they unpack the previous forced removals from Dunvlei and Ariesdrift. Swartwater guides the audience through a profound exploration of grief, resilience, and the enduring spirit of a people determined to overcome adversity.

Speaking on the upcoming programme, the head of The Market Theatre Lab, Cherae Halley, says: “Theatre has always had the ability to open dialogue, raise awareness and challenge social norms which often can lead to meaningful action. This Heritage-centred programme will provoke audiences as we look Genocide in the face and engage with the view that land and heritage cannot be separate matters. There is a minoritised culture and minoritised identities in Southern Africa, that need to be repositioned in the patchwork of our African story. I believe both the Think Tank and the production of Swartwater will remind us of that. This is how The Lab wishes to commemorate notions of heritage and culture this month.”

At the helm of Nama Khoi Productions is an extraordinary theatre-maker, Geralt Cloete, whose work is focused on sharing the experiences of the Nama people. Nama Khoi Productions is  situated in Sanddrift, a community on the outskirts of the Northern Cape, in the Namaqualand Region. To bring their work to Johannesburg will assist in expanding the reach of their stories and invite Johannesburg audiences to honour such stories as well as contribute to the developing knowledge of a past not often spoken about.

Audiences can catch their production of Swartwater from Thursday, 26 September to Sunday, 29 September 2024.

To purchase your ticket for this event, kindly visit Webtickets.

ENDS

For enquiries, please contact Bongiwe Potelwa (Publicist at the Market Theatre Foundation) at bongip@marketheatre.co.za or (011) 832 1641.

For reduced price block bookings (of 10 or more) and school groups, contact Anthony Ezeoke (Audience Development) at AnthonyE@markettheatre.co.za or 083 246 4950 or Mamello Khomongoe at mamellok@markettheatre.co.za 0815729612.

NOTES TO EDITORS:

About Pule kaJanolintji:

Pule kaJanolintji (Tūkx’aoseb) is an artist-researcher and cultural technologist working in transdisciplinary peer-learning based in endogenous cultural history and philosophy, with a focus on siNtu Khwemana, and !Ui-Taa language traditions. Pule’s work engages, for example, the |Xam archive through the lens of linguistic philosophy and ontologies of sign, as a scholar of cultural history of Southern African speech practice, presenting this work in artistic form in laboratories such as the Centre for the Less Good Idea, and at various in academic and cultural institutions, such as the School of Commons based at the Zürich University of the Arts. Pule was the administrator of the Khoen di !Nora!noras ǁGū!nans group founded by the late Rassool Snyman, and continues to engage issues of marginalised endogenous traditions of !Naremâb and Azania. Pule has worked as a researcher in the South African government at the National Language Service, and as a guest lecturer at many universities, primarily advocating for the writing systems of the continent, particular the pan-siNtu indigenous writing system, Ditema tsa Dinoko.

About Nama Khoi Productions:

Nama Khoi Productions, established in June 2022 by Geralt Cloete, is made up of a group of young individuals and Khoi activists who use the arts as a methodology to promote, preserve and develop the indigenous knowledge of the Nama Khoi language and culture. They are dedicated to share the experiences of the Nama Khoi people and their culture through the stories they tell and productions they produce. Their award-winning productions continue to raise awareness of the indigenous people located in the Namaqualand Region.

About the Market Theatre Lab:

Homed under the umbrella of The Market Theatre Foundation, The Market Theatre Lab is a multi-award-winning arts incubator, with a reputation for facilitating the development of exceptional young theatre-makers, facilitators, actors, writers and directors, and for creating innovative and relevant new plays. With multiple local, African and global partners, the Lab strives to create enriching experiences that contribute to the personal and artistic growth of each person who participates in our programmes. When the Market Theatre Laboratory opened its doors in 1989, the intention of its founders, Vanessa Cooke, Dr John Kani and Barney Simon, was to provide opportunities to talented youth from disadvantaged backgrounds who would not otherwise be able to pursue their passion for the arts or study further. This remains an integral part of the Lab’s purpose, along with a determination to assist young artists to build sustainable careers, and to create space and visibility for subaltern experiences, voices and identities. The Market Theatre Laboratory is led by Cherae Halley, with all projects managed by Thandeka Nheke.

Cion: Requiem of Ravel’s Boléro 

Cion: Requiem of Ravel’s Boléro

Cion: Requiem of Ravel’s Boléro, draws inspiration from the character Toloki in South African author Zakes Mda’s novels Cion and Ways of Dying. In this piece the message of death and its dire consequences are infused through a lament to be able to confront a universe in which the age-old tropes of greed, power and religion have given rise to loss of life not as a natural phenomenon. Toloki, the professional mourner weaves through this virtual landscape of dissolution giving rise to a catharsis of universal grief that will conquer the sadness, the hard reality continuing to permeate the living confronted by death that is not their own, often so unexpected, brutal and merciless.

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Set in a graveyard with the persistent cries of people in mourning and the a cappella music of Isicathamiya in our languages lead by a quartet to the creative arrangement and composition by Nhlanhla Mahlangu that vividly elicits emotions associated with the loss of life performed dancers who are themselves possessed by the spirit and being one with the departed souls and finally laying them to rest for peace and humanity to prevail. Gregory Maqoma’s message through this work is that we need to pause for a moment and urgently think about the pain inflicted on others by the actions of others.

New Afrikaans Play by Christo Davids Deals with People Living with Disabilities

New Afrikaans Play by Christo Davids Deals with People Living with Disabilities

The Market Theatre and Momentum Beleggins Aardklop look forward to presenting the premiere productions of Laaitie mettie biscuits, a compelling new Afrikaans play written and directed by renowned theatre-maker, Christo Davids.

The play will run from 24 – 28 September 2024 at Momentum Beleggings Aardklop in Potchefstroom, before coming to the Market Theatre for a season starting from 2 – 27 October 2024.

This gripping story by Davids tells the story of Noah – a teenage boy who is mentally challenged and dreams of becoming a policeman, and of looking after his mother and his community.

Thematically, Laaitie mettie biscuits offers a critical assessment of how societies treat people living with disabilities, while honestly interrogating policing ethics, injustices, community safety and human rights. Moreover, it confronts what and who societies consider normal, fearlessly exposing our bias against those who don’t look like us.  

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Speaking as both the writer and director of the work, Davids shares, “The question we must answer is: What and who is normal? Is Noah abnormal in a normal community? Or is Noah normal in an abnormal community…?”

The brilliant cast includes Wayne van Rooyen, Stephanie Baartman, Carla Classen and Joshwin Dyson. The creative team alongside Davids is completed by Jade Bowers’s set design, Jak Brits designing lighting, and Mariska Meyer designing the costumes.

According to the Market Theatre’s Artistic Director, Greg Homann, this production presents an opportunity to reflect on the progress we have made as a nation in ensuring inclusivity and dignity for all.

“The Market Theatre has always been at the centre of critical conversations about topical issues. As a space, we continuously stage bold productions that prick at our collective conscience as a nation, hold authorities accountable and affirm our shared humanity. With courageous honesty, outrageous brilliance and contagious humour, Laaitie mettie biscuits will awaken South Africans to the lived experiences of those on the periphery because they were born ‘different’,” remarks Greg Homann.

Homann emphasises the timeliness of this important production, following the crowning of Mia Le Roux as the first ever Miss SA with a disability.

This captivating play is presented at a profound moment when the arts and social reality are at an intersection. As the nation celebrates the crowning of a Miss South Africa emerging from our society where living with disability, inclusion, diversity and the protection of the marginalised reclaim their place in our national discourse. Laaitie mettie biscuits by the award-winning Davids illustrates the power of using the arts to advocate for the freedoms of others, speak truth to power and become a voice for the unheard.

Christo Davids is not a stranger to bold theatre and the representation of the marginalised. Laaitie mettie biscuits follows up on his award-winning Queenie-they, which highlighted the plight of homeless people.

Davids is a prolific actor, theatre and filmmaker who has established himself as a darling in the hearts of many audiences. Boasting a decades-long career that includes roles in SABC 2’s 7de Laan, The Boy Called Twist and Forgiveness.

Laaitie mettie biscuits will debut at Aardklop in Potchefstroom at the end of September before immediately transferring to The Market Theatre where it will run through most of October. Be sure to catch this brand new play which will do doubt make the audience laugh and, of course, cry. You will not be left untouched!

ENDS

For enquiries, please contact Bongiwe Potelwa (Publicist at the Market Theatre Foundation) at bongiwep@marketheatre.co.za or (011) 832 1641.

For reduced price block bookings (of 10 or more) and school groups, contact Anthony Ezeoke (Audience Development) at AnthonyE@markettheatre.co.za or 083 246 4950 or Mamello Khomongoe mamellok@markettheatre.co.za 0815729612.

CION

CION

Requiem of Ravel’s Boléro (PG5+)

Cion: Requiem of Ravel’s Boléro, draws inspiration from the character Toloki in South African author Zakes Mda’s novels Cion and Ways of Dying. In this piece the message of death and its dire consequences are infused through a lament to be able to confront a universe in which the age-old tropes of greed, power and religion have given rise to loss of life not as a natural phenomenon.

Toloki, the professional mourner weaves through this virtual landscape of dissolution giving rise to a catharsis of universal grief that will conquer the sadness, the hard reality continuing to permeate the living confronted by death that is not their own, often so unexpected, brutal and merciless.

Set in a graveyard with the persistent cries of people in mourning and the a cappella music of Isicathamiya in our languages lead by a quartet to the creative arrangement and composition by Nhlanhla Mahlangu that vividly elicits emotions associated with the loss of life performed dancers who are themselves possessed by the spirit and being one with the departed souls and finally laying them to rest for peace and humanity to prevail. Gregory Maqoma’s message through this work is that we need to pause for a moment and urgently think about the pain inflicted on others by the actions of others.

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COALYARD

THE REVIVAL OF COAL YARD HEADS TO THE MARKET THEATRE

From humble beginnings in a backyard in Phuthaditjhaba in QwaQwa, the Zwakala Festival’s past winner, Coal Yard, will enjoy a revival at the Market Theatre from 10 – 27 October 2024.
Coal Yard follows the journey of a young man called Tshepo whose dreams are shattered. He is forced to run away from his home after his father sexually abuses him. In the wilderness, Tshepo meets a mentor who gets him a job in a coal yard. The optimism of finding hope away from home is short lived when Tshepo has to confront labor under an exploitative boss. The play ultimately depicts the events that characterize the passage from boyhood to manhood in the life of Tshepo.
 
Performed with extraordinary energy, humour and skill, this is a multilingual piece of traditional storytelling par excellence. Working with physical theatre and a stripped back aesthetic reminiscent of plays like those of the late Mbongeni Ngema, including Woza Albert! and Asinamali, the ensemble tells this sensitive story. The set and props are kept to a minimum as the four performers constantly transform themselves across 37 different characters. The action seamlessly moves between dialogue in Sesotho, English, Afrikaans, Xitsonga, Zulu, Sepedi and Setswana.
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The genesis of this production goes back to 2004 when a collective of young theatre-makers assembled in the township of the former homeland to experiment with themes that no one was prepared to talk about. These were the social ills and taboos troubling their communities. The then young creatives were determined to find a theatrical way of presenting difficult subject matter. In 2005, Coal Yard was presented as part of a community festival that led to it winning the 2006 Zwakala Festival at The Market Theatre Laboratory. True to the festival’s legacy, the winning production went on to a hugely successful season at the then Laager Theatre at the Market Theatre. A new trendsetting production was born, garnering praise and many accolades in the process. Now the 2007 Naledi Award nominees for “Best Cutting-Edge Play” are coming back to the historic Market Theatre.

The original cast members were: Diphapang “Pepsi” Mokoena, Tumelo Mokoena, Mbovu Malinga and Tshediso Mofali (late). In their midst they had a passionate choreographer in Ohentse Bodibe who assisted with integrating the movement in the play. Later they were joined by the Market Theatre Laboratory graduate Prince Lamla who further developed the piece with his signature approach to storytelling. Alongside the great success of the work, the group suffered some setbacks. Mofali and Bodibe untimely died.
 
Prince Lamla is at the helm in this revival of the play which is being restaged thanks to a partnership between the Market Theatre and the Performing Arts Centre of The Free State (PACOFS). Lamla, a Wits University Theatre and Performance lecturer, won the Standard Bank Young Artist Award in 2013 which he dedicated to the memory of his friend and fellow creative, Bodibe. The original cast members are now joined by talented actor, Abongile Maurice Matyutyu.
This is a truly must-see production that deals with urgent issues in a theatrically dynamic and powerful way.
                                                   ~ENDS
For more information, images and interview with the cast members, please contact Bongiwe Potelwa (Publicist at the Market Theatre Foundation) at bongiwep@markettheatre.co.za or (011) 832 1641.
For reduced price block bookings (of 10 or more) and school groups, contact Anthony Ezeoke (Audience Development) at AnthonyE@markettheatre.co.za or 083 246 4950 or Mamello Khomongoe mamellok@markettheatre.co.za 0815729612