MARKET THEATRE: Queer Fest kicks off: ‘Shockwave’ celebrates transformation over despair
Artistic director Greg Homann says The Market Theatre is about ‘the diversity of the South African voice’. It honours that tradition with its inaugural Queer Fest.
The Market Theatre's inaugural Queer Fest began on October 21st, coinciding with the theatre's 50th anniversary. This event celebrates South African stories while focusing on LGBTQ+ experiences, honouring the diversity of the nation's voice. The festival opened with legendary satirist Pieter-Dirk Uys, followed by Guillaume Apollinaire's provocative new play, The Breasts of Tiresias.
One highlight of Queer Fest is Chantal Stanfield's play, Shockwave, which runs until November 8th. Set in 1980s Cape Town during the State of Emergency, this production examines the harsh realities of living under apartheid, religious conservatism, and prejudice. Despite the weighty themes of political unrest, heavy police presence, and restrictions imposed during that era, Shockwave never succumbs to despair.
Director David Dennis notes that the play blends humour, music, and human connection, creating a powerful narrative. The immersive sound design, including off-stage police vehicles, barking dogs, and exploding canisters, makes the historical threat feel immediate. As lead actress Renate Stuurman points out, the play still resonates today, as a young person facing similar issues still exists.
Shockwave also tackles religious hypocrisy, highlighting how faith can be both a source of comfort and a tool of exclusion. Stuurman observes that while loving your fellow man and following religious rules can be heartrending when they contradict each other, theatre spaces like The Market Theatre often lack the recognition they deserve for cultivating and showcasing original South African work.
The festival, featuring diverse offerings such as Bruce J Little's adult comedy, Bruce J Little's adult comedy, and live performances by Chris Chameleon and The Luyanda Madope Trio, exemplifies the importance of such spaces in preserving stories, challenging perspectives, and creating a platform for voices often overlooked. Ultimately, Shockwave transforms despair into hope, fostering empathy and understanding, and reaffirming the vital role theatre plays in South African culture.
Written by urgent.news from Daily Maverick's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
