BACK TO ASHES. Zabalaza Festival winner. Written and directed by Molupi Lepedi. Cast: Mthobisi Mpandle, Zanokhanyo Salman, Snalo Ndzunga, Noluvuyo Qhogi, Luyanda Lucious Nodilinga, Bulelani Mananga, Kabelo Lebenya, Fefekazi Mfundisi, Siyabonga Jim, Nicole Madumbu and Zintle Zwelibi. Baxter Golden Arrow Studio.
MEGAN CHORITZ reviews
Back to Ashes is a potent piece of ensemble theatre, retelling the story of Uyinene Mrwetyana, spanning the time from her parents’ marriage to her growing up, to her final brutal rape and murder. In this story she has another name because this can happen to anyone, but the details of her slaying are clear and particular. And shocking.
Back to Ashes starts as the world is forming – creation myth, song, story, the perfect harmony of ancient threads of world making. And a suggestion of the inevitable heartache that mankind must carry. It is in our bones. This opening, with meticulous choral work, vocally, physically and stylistically, is brilliant and utterly riveting. Superb Magnet Theatre training is evident in each breath and hand gesture. There is the potent sense that magic is unfolding, and last night’s full audience couldn’t hold back in vocalising their connection.
Each cast member deserves special mention
Back to Ashes is a story of two halves. The first half, right up until Nkosazana Kunene (Snalo Ndzunga) leaves for her studies in cape Town, is brilliantly conceived and executed. It is tight, and funny, and poignant and rich. This half is also original and powerful with the ensemble not missing a beat. The second half, from her arrival in Cape Town to her terrible rape, murder, dismembering, and burial is a bit of a mess. The focus is lost, the choreography less tight, the characterisation less precise. And it also goes on too long. In my opinion the piece would be stronger if it ended at the frozen moment in time when the post office is closed. It is a shocking moment. We know what happens next, and it is an unbearable realisation. Articulating the graphic horror of what happens to her is impossible to do on stage. If I could have, I would have fast forwarded to the end, where the women take it out on the men as the lights fade.
Still, there is so much that is brilliant about this piece and each cast member deserves special mention for their commitment, discipline, power, and characterisation. They are masterful. This piece deserves a wide audience. I hope it goes further.
What: Back to Ashes
Where and when: Baxter Theatre until 17 September 2022
Book: Webtickets
WS
