Shakespeare Unleashed!

At the Savoy Gqeberha!

Lights. Costumes. Curtain.

There’s nothing quite like performing.

We, two young girls, had made it happen. Our theatre company was underway with it’s first production on stage. How had we achieved this incredible feat? Draw up a chair and I’ll tell you.

First thing is first. Make sure that you and your best friend are crazy. Some institutions will tell you that the spark of madness is reserved for the old hermits. This is a false notion, and you MUST do away with it completely. This is the flame of the arts, embracing it is your only option.

Secondly, know that you are not alone. I woke up one day to find that God had placed the most amazing people in my life that were not only supportive but vital in making our first performance a success. From our mothers to our brothers to our friends. We were surrounded by all the care and heartfelt help we needed to raise our theatre baby. It takes a village they say.

Thirdly, practice your lines. This is a note to self. Read on!

The rest is this: when you find yourself on that immaculate stage, lying on your back, looking at the rigging above you, remember to be grateful. To know that theatre is a gift. That you are the servant of the audience, that gifts given to you are meant to be shared with the world and that a small drop of passion goes a long way. The Savoy theatre had stretched out her helping hand. We had brought our big guns and then we performed Shakespeare Unleashed. A grand compilation of scenes and pieces from Shakespeare’s most beloved works separated into three acts by theme Woo, Wit and Woe.

Our time backstage was full of giggles, our time after full of conversation with guests. And I cannot wait to do it all again.

Written by Nizaan Henning.

a.k.a. Stone