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Happy
Natives is playing at
Oxford Playhouse October 10
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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
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