News South Africa

Great metaphors, dark comedy in A Number

When setting foot into the doors of The Fugard you are welcomed with some of the warmest smiles in town - from picking up your tickets to being ushered to your seat. One thing that I love most about this venue is the 150 seat intimate studio, "theatre in the round". It's actually similar to the U2 concert except with a whole lot more charm. A style that takes you back to the days of early community theatre with no backdrops or curtains, only fascinating and intelligent use of sound and lighting to complement the show.
Great metaphors, dark comedy in A Number

Now... about A Number - this is the closest you'll get to sci-fi in reality. An individual seeks fulfillment and self-worth through the different phases of life, while the other character deals with the turmoil of a past life tragedy. Doesn't sound too science fiction-like does it? Well, witness the cleverly designed concept that brings this topic life and you'll understand.

Struggle with self-identity, attachment

An interlaced story about a father and son (played by father and son) overcoming family tragedy while struggling with self-identity and attachment. A slice of theatre expressing the phases of most men's lives - it almost describes human existence in totality, with the use of great metaphors and dark comedy. From dark and dreary to light and whimsical, A Number ends too soon.

On the other side of the coin it's a story about the controversial issue of cloning. A father brings his son back to life which, to him, seems the right thing to do, but at some point he feels threatened for his life by his own "son".

When veteran cast come together the timing is impeccable, and the fact that they are father and son, well, that's a chemistry to be seen. Two "ol' chaps" having fun, with combined experience of close to 80 years. Timothy West (76) is at it for 52 years and still got the power, taking you away into his world. Samuel West (age unknown), a charming man, has a magical way of transforming into characters, leaving you feeling a little disturbed and fascinated all at once. Dad and son had the full house literally at the edge of our seats.

Get thy bum on a Fugard seat, it will be money well spent.

For more info, go to www.thefugard.com.

Let's do Biz