Childhood in Chalk explores the period of school boycotts in Fingo Village (in Makhanda, formerly known as Grahamstown) from 1975 to 1985. Lion May, an audience member said afterwards: “I think it was a very strong show. Very beautifully put together. I’m a local from Makanda, so it’s amazing to learn as well from your own history. You always learn about other places during uprisings, but hearing of your own town and schools in your own background is so amazing. I also think just the expressions of emotion really captivated my attention. I’m coming back because I want to see the full thing with the lights. I’m a performer as well, so I know the tiny little things that lights can do that makes a whole thing be seen differently. But I just think this was really amazing.” Josh Arnold said it was a very responsible portrayal of violence. He also said that regardless of the use of IsiXhosa he managed to get an overall picture of the intended message. Peter Masi said the play was phenomenal in its use of stage, sound and props. Next performance 28 June 14:00 in the Rehearsal Room. Photo: ‘Maleruo Leponesa.
