Theatre: 32 Lavender Close
2 October 13:00
HMS Bloemhof Skoolsaal
“Sometimes, things that don’t fit together make each other better.”
These words by Grace Matetoa’s character, Melo, encapsulate the wonderfully serendipitous production that is 32 Lavender Close.
Andi Colombo’s 32 Lavender Close is an ode to the 20-something experience of ‘figuring it out’ and navigating friendship, vulnerability and self-discovery. PHOTO: Bayanda Gumede
Melo, and Carly – who is portrayed by Christie van Niekerk – could not be more different from the onset. One day, they are brought together as Melo desperately searches for a flatmate at 32 Lavender Close, and Carly desperately searches for somewhere to live. And over the course of six months, the two go from strangers to dysfunctional roommates to friends and, perhaps, something more.
Director and writer, Andi Colombo’s 32 Lavender Close is an ode to the 20-something experience of ‘figuring it out’ and discovering yourself in the process.
Moments of quirky humour are interwoven throughout this emotive theatre performance, as Melo and Carly test the boundaries of their living dynamic and newly-found friendship. PHOTO: Jeremeo Le Cordeur
The entire play is set in the shared bathroom of 32 Lavender Close. Set designers, Ntobeko Ximba and Simphiwe Gumede, make skilful use of colour and props, such as underwear and tampon boxes, to feminise the set and candidly replicate the typical look of a girl’s bathroom.
Setting the play in the bathroom further underscores the themes of emotional and physical intimacy and vulnerability that emerge throughout the performance.
Baring it all
Matetoa and Van Niekerk deliver a poignant performance interwoven with moments of quirky banter, as their characters attempt to break the ice following their initial meeting. As the play continues, however, Melo and Carly become increasingly familiar and vulnerable with one another and the audience. This closeness is not only signified through spoken word, but in the act of removing layers of clothing throughout the performance.
The audience gains a deeper insight into the characters through a series of monologues, revealing how both characters perceive themselves, and how their views of one another evolve over time.
Grace Matetoa and Christie Van Niekerk deliver a poignant performance in this moving story, written and directed by Andi Colombo. PHOTO: Jeremeo Le Cordeur
Although this play centres on two young women in the throes of navigating adulthood, themes around mental health, sexuality and friendship allow for an abounding relatability amongst diverse audiences.
Allow yourself the opportunity to experience this sincere story of connection that unfolds at 32 Lavender Close. Watch the final performance on 6 October at 16:00 at the HMS Bloemhof Skoolsaal.