“Autoplay”
“Autoplay” is an immersive multi-discipline production, with the calibre for which Darkroom Contemporary, who produced the play, has become renowned for.
It centres around a surreal encounter between humans and machines.
“The performance conjures a moving landscape that ebbs, shifts and transforms as it frames the experience,” a statement read.
This hybrid work by Louise Coetzer, the multiple award-winning organisation’s co-founder and artistic director, blends dance, live performance, art performance, sound installation and digital processing to bring dance theatre to a range of alternate dimensions.
It features a new original score by renowned music artists Brydon Bolton and Njabulo Phungula, with vocals by Inge Beckmann.
Other notable performers include Bronwyn Craddock, Darion Adams, Vuyelwa Phota and Gabrielle Fairhead.
“Staged in a secret location in Kloof Street, Cape Town, viewers are invited into a multi-faceted arena where the performance reimagines itself for every audience,” the statement added.
The initial meeting point for the production will be the fountain on Longkloof Square at Longkloof Studios.
Where: The meeting point is the Longkloof Studios in Gardens.
When: Runs until September 28.
Cost: Tickets cost R250 and are available through Quicket.
“Trial and Error”
This compelling courtroom drama is written and directed by the Fleur du Cap nominated director, Emma Amber and is presented by Origen Productions.
It is a thought-provoking play which delves into the complexities of the American justice system as it explores various themes such as racial bias, loss, acceptance and mental health.
Audience members act as the jury as they immerse themselves in the riveting trial of 19-year-old Amari Davies, played by Mamello Makhetha, who is charged with manslaughter, which is known as culpable homicide in South Africa, and neglect.
“Claiming the lives of Simon's parents in the aftermath of a tragic car accident, the weighty decision of her fate lies in the jury’s hands,” a statement explained.
The story is set in Georgia in America, and it navigates through the intricacies of the trial as factors such as race and Amari's drug test result come into play.
Meanwhile, Simon, left with complicated feelings of guilt and anger, aims to seek revenge for the loss of his parents.
The audience can observe the opening and closing arguments of the prosecutor (played by Sage van Niekerk) as well as those of the defence lawyer (played by Kayla van Tonder).
They will also get to witness the examination and cross-examination of witnesses, such as Dr Susan Reynolds, Amari’s psychiatrist (played by Luella Holland), and Officer Lance Williams, one of the policemen present at the scene of the accident (played by Daniel Stromin).
Meanwhile, the judge is an omnipotent-seeing, God-like figure who remains unseen with only his voice being heard.
The audience as the jury are all involved in the action as the legal practitioners speak directly to them. In this way, they get to experience the story as well as the social commentary made by the production.
It will reveal their own biases and where they stand on issues such as corruption in the justice system and the police force.
“‘Trial and Error’ challenges preconceptions, urging you to confront your own biases and beliefs,” the statement added.
“This dramatic play is a theatrical experience that goes beyond the confines of the stage, sparking conversations about justice, empathy and the human condition.”
Where: The Masambe Theatre at the Baxter Theatre Centre.
When: Runs until Saturday, September 14.
Cost: Tickets range from R100 to R170 and are available through Webtickets.
“Cirque Du Ballet”
Theatregoers are set to be treated to a captivating blend of classical ballet and acrobatics in the stage production of “Cirque Du Ballet”.
Directed by Evelyne Aregger, it features Cape Ballet Centre's talented youth and adult students alongside professional aerial artists.
“This contemporary show, with a vintage twist, will transport you to a world of wonder and enchantment,” the organisers said.
“Cirque du Ballet is a spectacular show for the whole family,” they added.
Where: The Pam Golding Theatre at The Baxter.
When: Friday, September 13, to Sunday, September 15.
Cost: Tickets range from R150 to R300 and are available through Webtickets.