Iman Isaacs delivers a very engaging performance as a tough yet sensitive Rhino; Richard September gives a super performance as the gentle and optimistic Dog; Siya Sikawuti is equally impressive with his interpretation of the fierce and ravenous Panther. The human (Emma) is played by Amy Louise Wilson, who gives a stellar performance as the archetypal human. Young actress Nandipha Tavares Calburn and Matthew King are well cast as the gods who rescue the four remaining survivors.
Joanna cleverly uses humour and accessible language throughout to engage the audience whilst revealing the emotional frailties of the four endangered species as they attempt to bond and negotiate their survival. The humour serves to lighten the otherwise dark themes as all characters crave belonging amidst a world of continual loss. The audience laughs at the comical behaviour of the archetypal characters, Dog and Rhino especially, and deceptively sensible Emma, only to realise that it isn't really funny after all - it serves to cover up fear, panic and immense sadness.
As the narrative progresses, the pathos of their predicament becomes increasingly evident. To quote Evans, "... when you take a step back and look at human logic things can get pretty hilarious. So the play is very funny, although ultimately it is a tragedy".
Struggle comes in the form of language barriers and ingrained behaviour and the attempted, bordering on patronising logic of the human doesn't resolve a thing. Emma's attempts at constructive peaceful negotiation fail repeatedly, followed by her desperately clinging to the threads of her perceived sense of control. Emma's terror at this loss is projected upon the animals in various ways. This only seems to destabilise the already fragile relationships that existed up until that point.
Highly worthy of mention is the acclaimed design team. Francois Knoetze's extraordinary set design involved sourcing props to create 'an arresting wasteland of flotsam and jetsam.' The accompanying music is almost primordial and works beautifully to create a suitable ambiance. Combined with Jon Keevy's lighting design, John Wither's sound constructs a dynamic and sensory experience for the audience.
Do yourself a favour and book to see this highly explosive production showing at the Magnet theatre until 10 November, 2015. Four Small Gods will be presented at 7.30pm nightly, except Sundays. There is a matinee at 3pm on Saturday, 7 November.
Tickets cost R90 with R60 for concessions (students and pensioners) and R50 for block bookings for groups of 10 or more. Tickets to the preview on Friday, 30 October cost R60. Tickets on Mondays are two for the price of one. Bookings can be made at www.webtickets.co.za
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