Despite the most daunting odds thrown at them by the third wave of COVID-19 and tighter lockdown restrictions, Director Dr Jerry Mofokeng wa Makhetha and his stellar cast, in partnership with the United States Mission to South Africa, are proud to present Lorraine Hansberry’s stage play, A Raisin in the Sun this Heritage Month.

With Keketso Semoko, Nat Ramabulana, Xolile Tshabalala and Gerben Kamper in leading roles, Hansberry’s masterpiece in hope, will premiere at the Soweto Theatre on 11 September 2021 and run until 17 September 2021 with a week of double matinee performances. This will be followed by double matinee performances at the Kroonstad Civic Theatre opening on Heritage Day (24 September 2021), and run until 26 September 2021. All performances will follow strict COVID-19 protocols and are limited in audience numbers based on lockdown Level 3 regulations.

“We are able to stage A Raisin in the Sun with immense gratitude to the U.S. Mission to South Africa. Without their financial support we would not have been able to produce a play of this calibre and production value. We are also extremely grateful to the Executive Mayor Councillor Mpho Chakane of the Moqhaka Local Municipality who has welcomed us to Kroonstad with open arms and generous hospitality,” says award-winning director and producer Mofokeng wa Makhetha.

Originally setin the 1950s, A Raisin In The Sun tells the story of an African American family’s desire and aspirations to move beyond segregation and disenfranchisement. A father’s death and life insurance pay-out promises his wife and children an opportunity to rise above their current circumstances. Throughout the play there is ongoing tension between the themes of dreams and selfishness, underpinned by gender, class and race.

“This is a story of hope, at a time in history when we need it most. It is a story that gives people permission to dream again. Walter, in the play, may be African American, but he is as much African as Steven Biko. When you watch the play and remove the places mentioned, it is very much an African play, an African story, an African Legacy. What happens when a Walter in the Free State in the democratic South Africa has a dream to have his own house, his own company? For his son to go to his school of choice and for his wife to wear pearls?” says Mofokeng wa Makhetha.

“This production is a gift to me, the cast and crew, and to every member of the audience that will experience it.  What a rare opportunity to occupy a magical seat in the theatre in the time of COVID,” he concludes.

Issued by JT Communication Solutions on behalf of Dr Jerry Mofokeng wa Makhetha and the U.S. Mission to South Africa.

For media enquiries and interview requests with the Cast, Director or U.S. Embassy representative please contact media@jtcomms.co.za or (011) 788 7632 and speak to Dee’s

Note to Editor

The production offers an opportunity for organisations, associations, schools, cultural groups to secure the theatre as an exclusive show case. Space is very limited per showcase in line with level three COVID regulations. Groups should therefore ensure they book their tickets in advance. Do however be aware that group bookings will only be accepted for a minimum of 10 to avert super-spreader occurrences. Only 40 people will be allowed into each production to adhere to COVID-19 regulations, and we strongly advise you make an early booking to secure your seat.

To be compliant to COVID-19 regulations and to book your seat to watch a Raisin In The Sun at Soweto Theatre, please send your RSVP or booking request to Khosi Ndesi - khosi@sowetotheatre.com or call 011 930 7461 or 076 477 1893

And to book your seat to watch a Raisin In The Sun at Kroonstad Civic Theatre, please send your RSVP or booking request to Dika Media - dikak@moqhaka.gov.za or dika.media1@gmail.com or call 073 501 2176

Performance dates are as follows:

Soweto Theatre:

Friday 10/09                                       Preview @ 11h00

                                                                Preview @ 19h00

Saturday 11/09                                  Performance @ 11h00

                                Official Opening Performance @ 15h00

Sunday 12/09                                     Performance @ 15h00

                                                                Performance @ 18h00

Tuesday 14/09                                   Performance @ 11h00

                                                                Performance @ 15h00

Wednesday 15/09                           Performance @ 11h00

Thursday 16/09                                 Performance @ 11h00

                                                                Performance @ 15h00

Friday 17/09                       Closing Performance @ 11h00

Kroonstad Theatre:

Thursday 24/09                 Opening Performance @ 11h00

                                                                Performance @ 15h00

Friday 25/09                                       Performance @ 11h00

                                                                Performance @ 15h00

Saturday 26/09                                  Performance @ 11h00

                                                Closing Performance @ 15h00