I Can Buy Myself Flowers, Comedy Drama
Venue: Victoria theatre
Next perfomance: Sunday 29 June 20:00
By Kungawo Ralo
I Can Buy Myself Flowers is a compelling and humorous drama aimed at promoting a sense of empowerment in women who are single. Inspired by Miley Cyrus’ song of the same name, the show begins with the song/anthem blasting as the star of the one person show, Erika Breytenbach dances her way onto the stage.
Written by Mike van Graan, it presents as a comedy skit, showing hilarious conversations between the solo protagonist Natalie Jackson and the multiple characters she plays, reminiscing on the journey to single womanhood. She describes her age as “old enough to be on her second or third marriage, young enough not to be blamed for apartheid and woman enough for menopause”. Mingled within the humour are engaging character switches as she walks the audience through her upbringing, her marriage, her friendship with her five single female friends who call themselves “Six-in-the-City”, and the ways in which she navigates life as a single mom.
Songs and sound effects are creatively incorporated into the show, adding a film-like layering to its style. The show is more than a simple depiction of the highs and lows experienced in the life cycle stages of women. It serves as an encouragement towards and endorsement of the positives for those with the courage to live on their own terms. It addresses the societal pressures imposed on women to marry and have kids and that while this may still be a general expectation may not be the path to a happily-ever-after ending.
This riotously endearing exploration of female friendship, self discovery and empowerment is sure to leave audiences amused and entertained, nodding in recognition and leaving feeling inspired.
