In a powerful artistic initiative aimed at confronting the entrenched issue of gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa, acclaimed TV and film actress Dr Mamphuti Khasu is set to take center stage with the premiere of Gontse!, a groundbreaking production. The performance, scheduled for its debut at the Soweto Theatre on January 24, promises to serve as a vital catalyst for conversation about a crisis that has become far too common in South African society. Through a compelling blend of dance, drama, and storytelling, Gontse! seeks to explore the trauma, resilience, and hope that define the experiences of women who have survived GBV and domestic violence.
The urgency of the play is amplified by the findings of a national study on GBV, commissioned by Minister of Women and People with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga. Released in November, the study revealed a staggering reality: one in three women aged 18 and older have experienced some form of sexual or physical abuse in their lifetime. This unsettling statistic provided the emotional and societal backdrop that drove Khasu and her team to create a performance that would not only highlight the devastating effects of GBV but also inspire a national conversation about the need for change.
Gontse! is a collaborative project led by the renowned director Disemelo Makhanda, who brings his visionary direction to a play that integrates both theatre and dance. Jazz legend Tlale Makhene contributes his musical expertise to enrich the emotional depth of the production, while the choreography is spearheaded by Thandiwe Mqokeli, an internationally celebrated dancer. Together, they have crafted a production that speaks to the struggles and triumphs of women who have survived the harsh realities of violence in intimate relationships, using movement to tell a deeply affecting and raw story. The fusion of theatre, dance, and music aims to draw the audience into a visceral experience, making the pain, strength, and resilience of the survivors palpable and unforgettable.
For Khasu, the production is deeply personal. As a survivor of GBV herself, she has imbued the project with an authenticity and passion that can only come from lived experience. “I am honoured to be a part of this vital project,” Khasu says, describing Gontse! as more than just a play. “It’s a call to action, a beacon of hope, and a testament to the strength and courage of survivors.” With her own painful journey informing the narrative, Khasu believes that the production will resonate deeply with audiences, particularly women who have experienced similar trauma. Her involvement in the project ensures that Gontse! is not just an artistic creation but also a vehicle for healing and empowerment.
The performance itself will unfold over a 90-minute period, during which the audience will witness an emotionally charged portrayal of the survivors’ journeys. Through dynamic and evocative choreography, the dancers will convey the internal struggles, moments of resilience, and eventual victories that characterize the lives of women who have endured violence. This physical storytelling, combined with the evocative musical score, promises to provide a moving, immersive experience that will leave a lasting impact on those who attend. After the performance, a panel discussion will provide an opportunity for the audience to engage with the themes of the play and explore the broader societal context of GBV.
Makhanda, reflecting on the significance of the production, expressed his belief in the power of theatre to challenge societal norms and initiate change. “We are thrilled to bring this important story to the stage,” he says. “Gontse! is a testament to the power of theatre to educate, inspire, and challenge.” The creative team hopes that, through this production, they can spark vital conversations and encourage meaningful action in a society that urgently needs to confront the reality of gender-based violence. By bringing such an important issue into the cultural spotlight, Gontse! aspires to do more than just entertain; it aims to be a transformative force for awareness, understanding, and change.