'Mockingbird' is loosely based on Harper Lee’s observations of her family, neighbours and a real event near her hometown.
Image: Facebook/The Playhouse Theatre
Directed by Celeste Grobler under the guidance of Darryl Spijkers and starring Alistair Jones, Carli Erasmus, William le Roux and others, this stage adaptation of "To Kill A Mockingbird" brings Harper Lee’s classic to life with emotional depth and social relevance.
The story is rooted in Lee’s own experiences growing up in Monroeville, Alabama, where she drew inspiration from her family, neighbours and a real-life event that took place near her hometown in 1936, when she was ten years old.
These personal influences shape a narrative that feels grounded in lived experience rather than distant fiction.
At its core, the production examines racial injustice, moral courage and the loss of childhood innocence. It portrays a society shaped by deep-seated prejudice, where truth and fairness are often clouded by fear, silence and expectation.
Through the perspective of young observers, it shows how understanding of the world is formed, challenged and reshaped through experience.
Empathy stands as one of the strongest themes, urging characters and audiences alike to consider life from another person’s point of view.
Alongside this is integrity, where individuals are faced with difficult choices about whether to remain passive or to stand up for justice, even when it carries personal consequences.
The production also reflects on family dynamics, the influence of community and the shaping of identity within a small-town environment, where reputation and tradition often dictate behaviour.
Where: The Playhouse Theatre.
When: Runs until Thursday, April 23 with shows at 3pm and 7.30pm.
Reworked by Laura Wade, The Watsons" is a twist on a Regency tale into something far less obedient. Emma Watson steps into society surrounded by potential suitors, social rules, and marriage hopes, yet nothing feels settled.
As attraction builds, the story begins to slip its own structure, questioning control, tradition and predetermined destinies.
Where: The Herschel Theatre.
When: Wednesday, April 22, to Friday, April 24, at 7pm.
SONDA (State of the National Disaster)
This satirical solo performance that fuses humour with social commentary. It explores South Africa’s ongoing challenges, including unemployment, crime, poverty, poor service delivery and political promises.
Through physical theatre, mime and clowning, it entertains while reflecting the country’s realities and encouraging audiences to reflect on society.
Where: The Black Box Theatre.
When: Sunday, April 26, at 5pm.