The final production of Act 1 of Soulpepper’s 2023/2024 season takes us to South Africa for Sizwe Banzi is Dead. Written by Athol Fugard, John Kani, and Winston Ntshona, Sizwe Banzi is Dead is a glimpse into the harsh realities of Apartheid while also proving that you can restart your life at any age. You won’t want to miss the powerhouse performances and moving story of Sizwe Banzi is Dead.

The story is divided into two sections: in the first, Styles shares stories about his life, and how he came to own his photography studio. From his days in the Ford plant to becoming an artist, his story is exceptionally inspiring. The second part begins when Sizwe Banzi comes into Styles’ studio to have a picture taken, and we are recounted the exceptional circumstances which have lead to him being in that very moment. Sizwe Banzi is Dead is exactly the play that I needed to witness right now; this inspiring tale of following your dreams hit very close to my heart. However, it also opened my eyes to the great amount I was not aware of about Apartheid and the strict regulations it placed on the citizens of South Africa.

Mumbai Tindyebwa Otu’s vision as this production’s director is outstanding. Everything about the show creates a cohesive and engaging experience to the point where I hardly noticed time passing as I was listening to these stories. Ken Mackenzie’s set design was beautiful, and utilized the space in a unique way. I loved how the upper and lower edges of the set showed the age and wear of the space Styles is able to afford. Ming Wong’s costume design is likewise perfectly indicative of the 70’s setting. It becomes easy to get lost in this little shop and the dreams Styles is helping to capture.

Truly, I cannot think of a more perfect cast for a Toronto production of Sizwe Banzi is Dead. Amaka Umeh gives a career defining performance as Styles/Bantu (Banzi’s friend). The initial portion of the play with Styles has them alone on stage for quite some time, and yet I feel like I could listen to them tell me stories all night. Umeh’s charisma and talent shine through every moment they’re on stage. All of that charisma turns into tough love and street savvy with Bantu, and Umeh remains a joy to watch throughout. The titular character is portrayed by Tawiah M’Carthy who likewise gives a seminal performance. He gives Banzi an innocence and kindness which immediately endears us to him. His characters fears and struggles are truly representative of the nation, and M’Carthy does a beautiful job of bringing the hope and light to that character. They are both such a delight to watch and their chemistry together was like fireworks. I hope I get to see them on stage together again in the future.

At its core, Sizwe Banzi is Dead is about hope: for ourselves, and for the life outside ourselves as well. It’s about taking the curveballs thrown your way and changing them into something new and wonderful. I cannot stress enough how much I think everyone should see this production of Sizwe Banzi is Dead! There are only a few opportunities left, as the show must close on June 18th! For more information and tickets, visit: https://www.soulpepper.ca/performances/sizwe-banzi-is-dead

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Photo by Dahlia Katz