January 25, 2007
By Ndaba Dlamini
MEET Caiphus Majozi, a modern young man who has climbed the ladder of success in the new democratic South Africa and is about to be blessed with a child by his lovely wife, Carol.
There is one hiccup in this rosy picture, though. Carol is way over due and is threatening to have a Caesarean section, but Majozi's grandmother is adamant no such thing will happen. No grandchild of hers will "be born through the nose", she says.
Thus unfolds the story of Born Thru The Nose, a play performed by Bheki Mkhwane and directed by Ellis Pearson and being staged at the Laager Theatre at the Market Theatre complex until 25 February. It is a beautiful allegory about traditional African values clashing with the modern world of science.
Majozi is in a dilemma and decides to visit a sangoma. He is reminded of his traditional name "Sticks of Dynamite" and is advised to take a branch of the umphafa tree to the grave of his father. This will appease his father and bring his spirit back to their new home.
On his journey to his father's grave Majozi encounters several problems, but he is finally able to perform family rites on the grave. This has no effect back home, however, and the baby still does not put in an appearance. He learns about the terrible circumstances surrounding the death of his mother and realises that there is one more spirit to be appeased and brought back home – that of his uncle.
Mkhwane is splendid in this one-man show. He is a talented storyteller, weaving the intricate structure of the play into a warm, beautiful piece of art. Be it playing the part of Carol, his grandmother, the unborn child or the sangoma, Mkhwane's characterisation is wonderful.
Bheki Mkhwane in Born Thru the Nose at the Market Theatre
(Photo courtesy of the Market Theatre)
When he first saw the first version of the play, Pearson says that as a white South African he was riveted and tremendously moved by its simple power and themes.
"As we steer our course in these early years of the 21st century, having a powerful vision for ourselves and our society is essential," Pearson says. "We somehow feel that it is time to turn from the enchantment of consumerism and materialism.
"It is time for us to discover the value of being one with the earth, as embodied in African healing practices. Who and what we allow to guide us is of great importance. This play has great potential to help shape our attitudes in a way that is holistic, kind and soulful."
Mkhwane performed Born Thru The Nose to critical acclaim at the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown in 2005. A founder member of Theatre for Africa, he has appeared in the film The Angel, the Bicycle and the Chinaman's Finger and has played leading roles in several TV series, including Khululeka and Motsami.
In July 1998 he won several KwaZulu-Natal Vita Awards for Solomon's Pride, including Best Actor, Best Production and Best New South African Work. In March 2006 one of his creations, Wave, was the South African contribution to the Commonwealth Games Arts Festival in Melbourne, Australia.
For those wanting to gain an insight into Zulu culture and traditions, Born Thru The Nose is a delightful, almost fairytale exposition of African rites. It is tinted with warm humour and is a must-see for the whole family.
For more information, contact the Market Theatre publicity department on 011 832 1641.
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