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SENSE Interrogates How Society Views Women

Thato “Kingvejah012” Moeng presents SENSE, a contemporary South African theatre production running from 5 – 8 November 2026 at The Market Theatre Kippies Fringe. Created to give voice to experiences that are often misunderstood or stigmatised, the production uses storytelling and performance to foster empathy and understanding around issues of womanhood, infertility, identity, mental health and social stigma.

SENSE follows the journey of Elsie, a married woman struggling with infertility whose life is shattered when she discovers that her husband’s mistress is pregnant with his child. Through the encounter between wife and mistress, the play exposes the emotional and psychological impact of societal expectations placed on women, while interrogating the unequal standards that shape relationships, marriage and family life.

Alongside Elsie’s story is that of Luthando, a young woman navigating adulthood in a society where financial security is often mistaken for love, validation and opportunity. As she becomes involved in a relationship with an older, financially established man, she is forced to confront the consequences of choices shaped by economic vulnerability and social pressure.

Together, these stories spark important conversations about infertility stigma, patriarchy, gender inequality, transactional relationships, mental health and the search for dignity, belonging and self-worth in contemporary South Africa.

SENSE was born out of a desire to give voice to experiences that are often hidden behind silence, shame and social expectation. Through this work, I hope to encourage audiences to question how we define womanhood, relationships and self-worth, and to remind us that healing begins when we choose empathy over judgement,” says writer Thato Moeng.

Performer Lebone Lephoko adds: “As a performer, SENSE has reminded me that behind every label, every assumption and every act of betrayal are human beings searching for love, dignity and belonging. I hope audiences see parts of themselves in these characters and leave with greater empathy for others and for themselves.”

Thato Moeng is a theatre-maker, playwright, performer, creative producer, arts facilitator and multidisciplinary arts practitioner with more than ten years of experience in theatre, television, film, community arts and digital storytelling. His work combines artistic excellence with community engagement, creating productions that inspire dialogue, learning and social reflection. His original works include SENSE, Deception, Blinded by Law, 11th Avenue, PHOLO, Girl With A Purpose and We Are The Future.

His work has been presented at the National Arts Festival, The Market Theatre, the South African State Theatre, Platform Theatre and various community spaces. Beyond theatre, he has worked extensively in youth participation, community development, digital storytelling and social impact programming both locally and internationally.

For a powerful and thought-provoking theatrical experience, don’t miss SENSE at The Market Theatre Kippies Fringe from 5 – 8 November 2026.

Tickets are out on Webtickets selling for R100. Bulk tickets can be purchased at The Market Theatre box office: 4 tickets at R350 and 8 tickets at R670.

Safe, affordable and secure underground parking available at Newtown Junction.

ENDS

The Kippies Fringe is an initiative of The Market Theatre, a division of The Market Theatre Foundation.

For media enquiries, 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 Specialist at The Market Theatre Foundation) at anthonye@markettheatre.co.za or 083 246 4950.