Fresh from the Fairy Academy, Thando is on a mission to bring the Christmas Spirit to the town of Eziyolo. But on the way, thugs rob him.
Fresh from the Fairy Academy, Thando is on a mission to bring the Christmas Spirit to the town of Eziyolo. But on the way, thugs rob him.
The plot that follows involves the greedy owner of Kwam Emankandla B&B, the police constable on whom she has a lustful eye, his boss the station comissioner, and two taxi drivers.
Looting comes into the picture, as the Ubom! cast come delightfully close to the bone in a colourful and energetic play that is perfect for Christmas in Grahamstown – with all its contradictions and complexities.
Ubom! is the boss of characterisation and it makes Thando's Christmas Box live.
Firm and full of expression, Ntomboxolo Donyeli is the star of the show as the staion commissioner – replete with bobby's helmet. Her junior, Khaya Kondile is her perfect foil to a performance that uses slapstick with great effect.
The taxi drivers Ayanda Nondlwana and Mzwanele Jodwana come into the plot as Thando tells them about being robbed of the Spirit of Christmas. "We've heard people in our taxis talking about such things," they say.
Anele Heshu, as Thando, is completely charming and Sisonke Donyeli as the B&B owner does a thoroughly good job of being selfish and wicked.
There's one last chance to see this fantastic show directed by Luvuyo Yanta, at BB Zondani Hall in Fingo, Tuesday 8 December at 2pm. Entry is by donation – pay what you can afford.
Take kids – lots of them, the grown-up ones too!
