Who could love a child more than their own mother? Through life’s ever-changing seasons, there is one thing that remains steadfast: a mother’s love. After investing much time, effort, and love to their children, is it too much to ask for the same unconditional love in return?
Sandra Prinsloo breathes life into the character of Anna, in Die Moeder. Die Moeder, originally The Mother, written by Florian Zeller, focuses on a mother grappling with empty nest syndrome and the consequences of her unhealthy fixation with her son (Ludwig Binge), which has alienated her closest family members: her daughter, her husband (Dawid Minaar), and her cherished son.
The tension extends to her son’s new girlfriend, Elodie (Ashley de Lange), as Anna battles with her underlying feelings of envy towards the girl.
Sandra Prinsloo (left) as Anna, Ludwig Binge (middle) as Nicolas, and Ashley de Lange as Elodie in Die Moeder at the 2023 Toyota US Woordfees. PHOTO: Supplied/Nardus Engelbrecht
The power of repetition
The audience gets a glimpse into Anna’s fragile psyche as they see her hallucinations being portrayed on stage. This is achieved by repeating parallel scenarios three to four times, with the characters’ interactions subtly shifting in tone during each iteration.
Ultimately the audience is left conflicted, questioning what is real and what is just a figment of Anna’s imagination. It leaves the audience emotionally conflicted about their sentiments towards each character.
Emotionally charged performances
The actors all skilfully embody their characters, evoking feelings of discomfort, sympathy, confusion, and concern. While the seasoned actors delivered an exceptional performance, it was Charl Fölscher’s videography that emerged as the true star.
Initially, the video projection makes you disquiet. However, as the play unfolds and Anna’s mental state unravels, it becomes an indispensable tool for conveying the depth of it all.
While the audience could observe the on-stage actions of the actors, Fölscher’s close-up shots compelled them to confront their feelings of unease and empathy, driving home the profound understanding of Anna’s emotional journey.
Sandra Prinsloo (bottom left) as Anna and Dawid Minaar (top right) as Pierre in Die Moeder which returned to the stage for the second consecutive year at the 2023 Toyota US Woordfees due to public demand. PHOTO: Supplied/Nardus Engelbrech
A lasting impact
Christiaan Olwagen’s vision and direction for this play and its intricate complexities are nothing short of remarkable.
The play proved to be a profoundly moving and thought-provoking theatrical experience. The combination of a talented cast, skilful direction, and captivating videography produced a theatrical experience that touched the heart and challenged the mind.
- SMF News attended Die Moeder’s final performance on 13 October at Bloemhof Girls’ High School.