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Rituale Romaum - The Strange Case of AnnelieseThe eminent story that has moved people throughout the world, explores the horrific experiences of Anneliese Michel. Directed by Stallone Santino (Dream Boy, How Soon is Now, The Crucible). A psychological thriller is presented based on true life events that surround the alleged demonic possessions, which grapple with the debates concerning science and religion, that still linger in the world we are living in. The story that has reached masses and inspired many Hollywood features which include The Exorcist and The Exorcism of Emily Rose is now being conjured through a skillful adaptation and retelling which will premiere at the Hexagon Theatre in Pietermaritzburg in June 2013. Shortly after, the creative team ventures to the Eastern Cape to thrill audiences at one of Africa's largest theatre and entertainment platforms- The Grahamstown National Arts Festival. Anneliese Michel's story has generated mass controversy among the church and medical professionals regarding bizarre encounters that many have considered to be demonic possession. Others opposed this notion, concluding that Anneliese was suffering from a rare medical condition. Anneliese's saga began with mere convulsions in her school, which developed into demonic hallucinations. She started hearing voices telling her that she was damned. After several visits to medical experts, it was warranted that Anneliese was suffering from depression and it was determined that Anneliese was considering suicide. While costs impacted negatively on her parents, and failure in medication, Anneliese's parents were convinced that exorcisms were the apt route in healing her. The play explores the horrific encounters and exorcisms performed on her along with a hard-hitting and emotionally moving court case that grapples with the arguments of science and religion. The shows lead actress Simone Du Preez marvelously depicts the shocking experiences of Anneliese Michel and is sure to move audiences. The thrilling production is sure to captivate audiences through its surrealist elements and performance. The cast includes Liana Barciela and Simone Du Preez and also features Nicolas Hughes, Mario Robles, Qininso Zungu, Lebohang Makgabutlane, Sade Wagner, Shivani Hariparsad and Asanda Africander. The show also equips itself with a choral group with musical direction by Londiwe Ngema. Audiences can look forward to a thrilling show that strays from the conventional theatre experience and ignites what Artaud and Kane called a "shocking theatre expereince". Date: 27 June 2013 to 02 July 2013Venue: St Andrews Hall, Grahamstown Cost: R50 More info: www.nationalartsfestival.co.za |