The South African theatre classic The Suit returns to Theatre on The Square featuring an impressive cast
By Edward Tsumele, CITYLIFE/ARTS Editor
Late last year, I was invited to the South African theatrical production, The Suit at Theatre on the Square featuring formidable South African actor Sello Maake Ka Nacube, underrated by highly gifted actor Job Kubatsi –one wishes he gets more theatrical roles in 2025 for his acting abilities are simply out of this world – Tshireletso Nkoane and Lebohang Motaung. However could not honour the invitation to my then tight schedule. I now regret missing the show. Even when I tried to get a ticket a day before the show closed, my efforts came to naught. The show was sold out.
However when a message poped in my inbox this week, announcing the return of the show at Theatre on the Square, it is news that I received warmly as I immediately vowed that this time around I am not going to miss the show.
There is a very special reason why this show is one that someone must not just miss carelessly, and it is the casting by the producers of the show, Sello Maake ka Ncube Foundation in association with Daphne Kuhn of Theatre on The Square an Nelson Mandela Square in Sandton.
This is definitely a dream cast for those who love theatre. For now, let us focus on ka Ncube. Despite his off stage and off screen problems with his estranged wife, ka Maake when it comes to stage craft is one of the few guys that have few rivals locally.
For example at the height of the storm last year, whyen accusations and counter-accusations of alleged infidelity and physical abuse were hurled against one another by the one-time lovers in court, The Suit continued to fill up the theatre, putting bums on seats, seemingly unaffected by what was happening in the courtroom involving its star actor ka Maake.
Whether on screen or on stage, ka Maake is one actor in South Africa who has caught the imagination of many a stage or screen fan due to his propensity to turn even what would be one of the most boring characters into a formidable character on shows that he is feature in.
His acting abilities have taken him to many theatre stages in South Africa as well as in the UK where he for years performed n the Lion King. It is also during this time when he went back to school completing a masters degree in screen writing at Leeds university.
When he came back he was back on TV soapies and in recent years also on stage where he frequently plays the roles of actor, director and producer under the auspces of his own foundation, the Sello Maake ka Ncube Foundation.
And therefore those who like me may have missed The Suit when it first performed at the same venue last here, here is another opportunity to buy tickets and attend the theatre classic.
“The Sello Maake kaNcube Foundation in association with Daphne Kuhn of Theatre on the
Square, is proud to announce the return season of Can Themba’s iconic THE SUIT from 3 February to 16 February 2025.
Returning by popular demand after a sold-out season, The Suit is a powerful South African classic by Can Themba. This timeless tale explores themes of love, betrayal, and resilience during apartheid, making it an essential cultural experience for learners studying South African history and literature.
Directed by the acclaimed J. Bobs Tshabalala and produced by the Sello Maake KaNcube Foundation and Daphne Kuhn, this adaptation has received rave reviews for its emotional depth and stunning performances. Featuring a stellar cast, including Sello Maake KaNcube, Tshireletso Nkoane, Job Kubatsi, and Lebohang Motaung, The Suit promises to leave a lasting impression on all audiences, as it is educational and culturally enriching.
Written by banned investigative journalist and author, Can Themba, in the 60’s, THE SUIT is set in Sophiatown against the backdrop of the Apartheid regime’s forced removals under the group Areas Act. tells the story of Philemon who discovers that his wife, Matilda has a lover. When the lover flees after being discovered, he leaves behind his suit. Philemon devises a cruel punishment by forcing Matilda to treat the suit as a guest who must accompany them through every moment of the day. The story is a powerful metaphor for the impact of oppression on personal relationships , while it explores love and betrayal, unforgiveness, revenge and destructive intolerance,” reads a media statement from the theatre.
Bookings can be made via ww.theatreonthesquare.co.za or Webtickets or telephonically via the Theatre on the Square Box office on 011 883-8606 / 083 3774969. Enquire about special block booking discounts for school and special interest groups.
Book via Webtickets: https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1561459396