Cape Town’s Cultural Scene Welcomes a Mesmerizing Theatrical Production
Cape Town is preparing to host an enthralling theatrical production in September – the world premiere of the stage adaptation of Damon Galgut’s Booker Prize-winning novel, The Promise. The show masterfully combines a robust narrative with exquisite artistic elements, all under the expert direction of internationally acclaimed director Sylvaine Strike.
The Promise features an exceptional South African cast, featuring acclaimed actors such as Rob van Vuuren, Kate Normington, Frank Opperman, Chuma Sopotela, Cintaine Schutte, Jenny Stead, Albert Pretorius, Sanda Shandu, and Jane de Wet. Furthermore, the talented creative team includes sound design and original music composition by Charl-Johan Lingenfelder, set and lighting design by Josh Lindberg, costume design by Penny Simpson, and choreography by Natalie Fisher – resulting in a truly outstanding collaboration.
The story of The Promise centers around a typical white South African family, the Swarts, living on a farm outside Pretoria. The plot revolves around their refusal to grant a small piece of land to Salome, a Sotho woman who has worked for them her entire life. Despite the seemingly insignificant nature of the property, the family adamantly denies Salome what is rightfully hers. As the narrative progresses, the Swarts are forced to confront their unresolved issues while facing each other across a widening chasm of division.
Creating The Stage Adaptation of The Promise
The creation of this stage adaptation required an extensive two-year conversation process between Galgut and Strike. Together, they developed a unique visual language to convey this gripping tale, employing a chorus-driven narration that adds a great dimension to the storytelling. In a recent interview with News24, Strike recounted the workshop week as an inspiring journey of exploration involving the author, cast, and creative team, who she described as ‘formidable.’
Audiences can expect a product that is humorous, thought-provoking, and impactful, engaging them in the most intimate way possible. The Homecoming Centre, situated on the edge of District Six and home to the District Six Museum, serves as a fitting symbolic venue for a work that grapples with South African themes and issues.
The Promise will grace the stage at the Star Theatre (previously The Fugard Theatre) from 14 September to 6 October. Having secured only the third Booker Prize for a South African novel in 2021, Galgut’s esteemed work is anticipated to enchant audiences and infuse fresh vitality into this captivating narrative.
Location: The Star Theatre, The Homecoming Centre, District Six
Dates: 14 September to 6 October
Times: 3 pm and 8pm
Cost: R200 to R250
Get Tickets
The Promise promises to be a memorable and powerful exploration of South African themes and issues in a unique and engaging form. With its talented cast and creative team, the stage adaptation of Galgut’s celebrated novel is set to captivate Cape Town audiences and leave a lasting impression.
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