Third-year drama students at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) have put together an exciting double bill for theatre-lovers.
The first play, “No Added Bank Charges”, is a brand-new farce written and directed by Dr Verne Rowin Munsamy.
Inspired by the struggles many faced during the Covid-19 pandemic, particularly farmers unable to pay their loans, this playful story follows characters who plot to rob a bank, only to return the stolen money right back to repay their debts.
The wild ride features an amusing mix of antics, including a fortune teller, clumsy security guards, nosy reporters and even a physical food fight.
It promises an entertaining blend of chaos and hilarity, culminating in a rather unexpected on-stage birth.
“I suppose a cathartic coping mechanism is laughing at problematic situations. The tragic/comedic content and the brisk timing are great material for the students to test their physical theatre and comedy skills,” said Munsamy.
Cast of “The Bald Soprano”.
The second play is the classic absurdist work “The Bald Soprano”, penned by Eugène Ionesco and directed by Palesa Matabane.
It revolves around an English couple, the Smiths, who invite their friends, the Martins, over for a dinner where conversation goes hilariously awry, and chaos inevitably follows.
One of the unique elements of Matabane’s production is her decision to have multiple actors share the role of a single character.
Munsamy said, “We are certainly having a lot of fun with the project, and it is a great test of versatility and style for the students. We sincerely hope the audiences find the situations as funny – and in many cases as ridiculous – as we do!”
Where: The DUT Courtyard Theatre.
When: “No Added Bank Charges” will show from October 6 – 8 from 2pm, and “The Bald Soprano” will show on October 7 – 8 from 2pm.
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