Happy Natives is playing at
Oxford Playhouse October 10 |
When creating Happy Natives, Greig Coetzee could have made it so easy for himself. He could have written yet another one in the long line of stories about the new South Africa where everyone is trying to adapt to the new rules. But he didn't. Instead, the South African playwright wanted to challenge the usual representation of his country - 'wretchedness', 'triumph over adversity' or 'happy natives dancing'. And he sure does. Mto moves to a white Durban suburb. His white childhood friend Kenneth comes to stay for a while. As the two work on a play they are developing, Jimmy, Mto's new neighbour and a former apartheid soldier pops in - as does his maid Prudence. As the play progresses, these characters and a number of others turn stereotypes and well-meaning assumptions upside down as Coetzee takes a very critical look at everyone involved - from politically correct whites to the elderly black maid. Brilliant actors Sello Sebotsane and Ben Voss put on a two-man show that seems like an ensemble piece. After the play is over it seems incredible that there were not more actors. Sebotsane and Voss slip in and out of character with such distinct styles that there is never any doubt who they are portraying at any given point. With almost no props, they seemingly effortlessly convey a whole range of settings. Happy Natives tells a serious story in a very funny way. In addition, it manages that rare feat - making the audience laugh at themselves. Reviewed by Jenny Enarsson | 
