Paul Slabolepszy unveils the polarised reality of life as an artist in ‘Bitter Winter’
I’m sure everyone is probably wondering what happened to our summer given the cold and rainy weather of late.
But here’s something to warm the cockles of your heart, Paul Slabolepszy’s “Bitter Winter” is making its debut at Pieter Toerien’s Studio Theatre on February 20.
The acclaimed playwright mirrors the world he’s spent the longest time in, paying homage to the legends gracing the South African stages.
Explores through the lens of an artist’s life, “Bitter Winter” looks at the new generation trying to fill the giant shoes of their predecessors.
Of course, the journey isn’t without disappointment and challenges but such is the path to success.
Directed by Lesedi Job, it stars Andre Odendaal (playing Jean-Louis Lourens), Oarabile Ditsele (playing Prosper Mangane) and Chantal Stanfield (playing Felicia Willemse).
Much of the interaction takes place in an audition room, where actors face their greatest challenges while also honing their skills.
The script unpacks the polarity between one actor who has led a fruitful career and the other who is planting his feet and is enamoured by the make-believe world he is thrust into.
Shedding light on the genesis of this production, Slabolepszy shared: “Lizz Meiring was giving a talk at The Baxter Theatre a number of years ago, about all the vital work that the Theatre Benevolent Fund does and it was discussed about the plight of ageing artists in South Africa as they reach the end of their careers.
“I was asked after that talk, whether I would write a play about it and I jumped right in. Then Covid hit, but I kept working on it. I wrote the piece with Andre Odendaal in mind, who then brought Weslee Lauder in to produce. And here we are.”
Interestingly, he had one actor in mind when he penned the characters.
“Having Andre, I thought he would be ideal for Jean-Louis. The other two artists went through the audition process.”
When it comes to collaboration, he added: “I’ve always collaborated, right back to Bill Flynn days and it’s so important, now more than ever. In many instances, it’s the only way to get a show on stage, especially a new play.”
With decades of experience under his belt, Slabolepszy’s passion for storytelling remains as fiery as when he started in the industry.
He added: “I love writing comedy but, at the same time, it’s important to deal with the issues, but to talk about them in such a way for the audience to be receptive to it. It's so important that people keep writing authentic stories.”
Sharing Slabolepszy’s love for the performing arts, Job was delighted to helm this production.
She said: “Initially, what drew me to the play was the story of an actor’s journey in the South African arts industry that reminded me of my complex love affair with theatre as an artist.
“But as I started working on the play, I became aware of how this is a story that inspires self-reflection and I love telling stories that leave an audience thinking even after they have seen the play.”
Job added: “I am a South African and I am passionate about being part of the next generation of storytellers within South Africa that contribute to the history of South African Theatre.
“‘Bitter Winter’ is the fifth new South African play I am directing and I think this is not only the case out of choice but also because it is my purpose.”
Meanwhile, Odendaal was chuffed to be a part of this production.
He shared: “Paul approached me over two years ago telling me about ‘Bitter Winter’ and asked me to play the part … a great honour.
“Apart from being in a play by Paul, I have always been game for new South African work. These opportunities are rare and always special. An authentic voice and a remarkable challenge.”
Ditsele added: “I am portraying a character that holds the lived experience of many young black men, those in his position and those aspiring to be where he is.
“I want my process to be as authentic as possible. I am here to tell a story, the best that I can.
“To use the famous saying, ‘To turn the mirror to society’, and if an audience member sees themselves or an encounter they once had, great, if not, at least they have something to talk about on their way home.”
Where: Pieter Toerien’s Studio Theatre, Montecasino.
When: Thursday, February 20, until March 16, 7.30pm. There’s a 3pm show on the weekend.
Cost: Tickets range from R150 to R220 and can be purchased via Webtickets or selected Pick ‘n Pay stores. The show is rated PG10.
Marc Eugene Lottering
While he has been tickling the funnybone as his alter ego, Aunty Merle Abrahams, in his latest show, Lottering offers a more intimate look at his life.
In this offering, which is directed by Anwar McKay, he unpacks his colourful family tree with the comical finesse that only he can deliver.
And it’s sprinkled with impersonations of those closest to him, especially his mom, who assured him that they were originally “blonde German-Carribeans”.
Of course, fans can expect to be rolling in the aisles but please leave the little ones at home.
Where: Lyric Theatre, Gold Reef City.
When: February 22, 7.30pm.
Cost: Tickets are priced at R220 and can be purchased through Webtickets.