This year’s school production closed to rave reviews after 4 performances.
“Tsholofelo is a vibrant, engaging piece of theatre performed with passion and commitment. I was inspired and filled with hope.” Phillippa Yaa De Villiers, Commonwealth Poet 2014
“…an amazing show, truly representative of the current social issues. This is a winner for bringing about social cohesion” Penny Makgati (class of 2007)
“The production was inspirational and moving” Daniela Brancato (class of 2008)
“The script was dealt with so much sensitivity and the facts were correct. I am very surprised that the authors did not live through this experience themselves.” A Jeppe parent who was brought up in the struggle
Written by the Cultural Head of the school Michelle Pugin in conjunction with Jani MacRobert of the Music department, the play deals with the issues of racism, discrimination and xenophobia. Although learners at the school are too young to have experienced apartheid first hand, many of them will have experienced or seen the issues of xenophobia and racism that are still present in some parts of our new democracy. “Tsholofelo – the story of Hope “moves beyond discrimination and toward unity.
250 girls and some Jeppe boys auditioned for the play over a period of 2 days and the final cast of 27 were chosen. The actors worked very hard on their roles, learning songs and dances that were in some instances very different from their own cultures and languages. They sacrificed sport, holidays and afternoons to be at rehearsals, showing their commitment and dedication to the message of Tsholofelo. Michelle Pugin said that her own life has become enriched as she has come to know and love these actors. “Besides the obvious talent, she says, I have seen courage and strength beyond their years as some fight impossible odds”.
Congratulations to the cast and crew for a wonderful production. Two more performances are scheduled in celebration of Youth Week on Friday 20th June and Saturday 21 June 2014. Tickets will go on sale in June.
