Rhetorical

The Market Theatre, Goethe Institute, Kaaitheater Brussels and Siemens Stiftung presents:

'Rhetorical'

by Paul Mpumelelo Grootboom and Aubrey Sekhabi

An initiative of the Siemens Stiftung in cooperation with the Kaaitheater (Brussels), the Market Theatre (Johannesburg), Festival Iberoamericano de Teatro de Bogota and the Museum of Contemporary Art Zagreb is proud to present the first series of staged speeches: Rhetorical, scripted by Mpumelelo Paul Grootboom and Aubrey Sekhabi and directed by Mpumelelo Paul Grootboom.

Rhetorical is a rhetorical analysis of Thabo Mbeki's legacy through some key events during his presidency - and some of his most famous speeches. The play explores Mbeki's art of persuasion - and possible lack of persuasion - and attempts, at the same time, to satirically represent the effect of his policies and style of governance on the average) citizens of the New South Africa.

The premise of the story is a "narrative presentation of Mbeki's days in high office as told intriguingly - and effusively - by a colourful and fictional youth leader, Dada Mokone, who is based on real-life firebrand ANC Youth League president, Julius Malema".

Key speeches that are examined include I am an African, Two Nations, Nelson Mandela Memorial Lecture and his Resignation speech after he was recalled by the National Executive Committee of the ANC.

The play stars the sensational TV actor Fezile Mpela as Mbeki and Presley Chweneyagae of the "Tsotsi" fame as Mokone. The supporting roles are played by Phumzile Gumede, Tsholo Monedi and Ontiretse Mayentsa.


Production Information:

Scripted by Mpumelelo Paul Grootboom and Aubrey Sekhabi

Directed by Mpumelelo Paul Grootboom

Set, Lighting and Video Designer: Wilhelm Disbergen

Costume Designer: Noluthando Lobese

Choreographer: Thabo Rapoo

Stage Manager: Irene Mathe


Cast:

Fezile Mpela

Presley Chweneyagae

Phumzile Gumede

Tsholo Monedi

Ontiretse Mayentsa

Category:

Entertainment

Tags:

• Rhetorical
• Paul Grootboom
• Wilhelm Disbergen
• Market Theatre
• Kaaitheater
• Aubrey Sekhabi Theater