Between the Teeth was first performed in 1991, as a comically satirical response to the dying days of the apartheid government. It highlighted how the spoken word and truth had been distorted to justify ideologies and the resulting atrocities. It still feels relevant today, slightly updated to include our current political climate of “Service delivery” and men with even more libido than wives.
The script is fast paced and extremely clever, combined with skillful movement, imaginary props, and beautifully refined gestures. The ease and speed with which Andrew shape-shifted through a multitude of characters was impressive. An entire war scene was acted out, using only financial currencies for sound. Another scene was dedicated to creating a bonfire out of racial slurs. My personal highlight was a long sequence, attempting to fly, which was communicated in silence.
This is thought-provoking theatre. I personally did not “understand” all that was presented. There is plenty of space left open for interpretation and many mysterious nuggets to take home and ponder. The majority of the audience was young; I am guessing many of them were students of the arts, broadening their education.
I intend to see his other two shows while they are running at the Baxter.
Between the Teeth as well as two other plays by Andrew Buckland; The Ugly Noo Noo and Misterio Buffo are running at the Baxter till May 22 at 8.15pm. The Ugly Noo Noo on May 14, 15, 19 and 20; Between the Teeth on May 6, 10,11, 21 and 22 and Mistero Buffo on May 8, 12,13, 17 and 18. For more information about the performance schedule, go to the Baxter's website at www.baxter.co.za.
Ticket prices for the Andrew Buckland season range from R70 for the Baxter Monday special offer, which includes a light meal, to R120 for Tuesdays to Thursdays and R130 on Fridays and Saturdays. Patrons who book for all three shows, for any performance (except Baxter Mondays), will pay just R200.
Booking is through Computicket on +27 (0)83 915 8000, online at www.computicket.co.za or at any Shoprite Checkers outlet countrywide.
