By Thapelo Matlala
A Tswana, a Tsonga, and a drunk walk into a hostel. The possibilities are endless.
Over the course of Amagrootman, we are introduced to these three men in greater detail, learning about the circumstances and turns of events that have made them who they are today.
There is Jozi – known for his way with women, spontaneous religious conversions, and a diabetes diagnosis that greeted him with ‘manhood’ complications.
Then there’s Murder who’s a sangoma and a prophet. Finally, we have our drunkard Mdavaso. He loves alcohol with his mind, body and soul. Although he was always drunk, he surprises us with superb cognitive ability and sound reasoning.
What a performance it is! This simple premise of three men with different beliefs, cultures, and different life paths coexisting under the same roof makes for a truly engaging bit of storytelling.
The writing of Solly Malaka has the audience in fits of laughter. At times I wonder if we’ve taken off the roof of the theatre. Despite an awkward two minutes of total blackout – load shedding – the actors are quickly able to regain themselves and come back with more ‘oomph’!
Through humour, and strong personalities on stage, the production tackles topics of alcohol abuse, traditional healing, masculinity and various health complications. If you’re looking for a short, sharp bit of theatre that’ll bring the laughter this Festival, Amagrootman is for you.
Amagrootman is on at the Rehearsal Room, Monument, until 28 June.
