The Stellenbosch University (SU) drama department will soon be launching its first theatre production since the onset of Covid-19 lockdown restrictions in March 2020.
This was according to Schalk van der Merwe, a lecturer in drama and theatre studies at SU, and the producer of the production, Die Waterslang.
Die Waterslang is a children’s theatre production that will be showcased at various schools from 3 to 8 May, said Van der Merwe.
The character, Bekkie (Minke Marais), plays with her marbles in a scene from the production, Die Waterslang. PHOTO: Supplied/Stephan Meyer
“The story unfolds with a young girl known as Bekkie living in the Karoo, who accidentally picks up Die Waterslang’s magic stone,” said Minke Marais, a second-year BA (drama and theatre studies) student at SU, who will portray the character of Bekkie in the production. “The rest is up to the audience to discover,” added Marais.
A local showcasing of the production will take place at the SU drama department’s Adam Small theatre on 10 May, and will be open to the public, said Van der Merwe. The production team consists of six actors and five technical students, who will travel to schools in and around Stellenbosch during the performance week, according to Marais.
The two Karoo spirits, Verspoel (left) and Verdor (right), will be voiced by Marli Pretorius and Schalk van der Merwe in the production, Die Waterslang. PHOTO: Supplied/Stephan Meyer
“We are performing at AF Louw Primary School, as well as Hannah Grobbelaar Charity. Then we will be going to Franschhoek. Next it will be [at] De Hoop Primary School in Somerset West,” stated Van der Merwe.
The rehearsals for the production have been taking place in the Adam Small theatre, according to Van der Merwe. A private dress rehearsal was showcased on 28 April, he added.
Anguis, the savage Waterslang, is played by Andries Theron. This character is the antagonist in the production. PHOTO: Supplied/Stephan Meyer
“Although we have performed and practised in the Adam Small theatre, I am so excited to see how the children will react to the play. I want to see how they interact with us as well,” said Mieke Fabel, a BAHons (drama and theatre studies) student, who is part of the production.
This production is unique as it requires the cast to wear masks for the duration of the performances, in compliance with Covid-19 protocols, according to Fabel.
“Acting with a mask on brings a completely different aspect to acting. You cannot use your face anymore. The acting becomes even more in the body,” said Fabel.
Marais added that it is challenging to wear a mask during a performance, because articulation needs to be impeccable.
“It is a children’s theatre production, the energy level needs to be absolutely consistent, and we’re performing four times on some days,” said Marais.
To read the article in Afrkiaans, click here.