Ruined By Lynn Nottage Script

[Jeana Rodia]

Onewould believe that this introduction would at the very least uncage the role of this bird, that its symbolism would somehow plumage the wings of the plot; but alas, the only other time we hear from it any screech, crackle or squawk in this brawling brothel, throughout a period of over 4 months, is at the very end. I question what was actually more substantial, the nuanced impeccable performance of this nugatory parrot or that of the astounding ragtag rebel soldiers?

Mathibe was merely following the script, but certainly something different was required. The production is two and a half hours long with an interval. This would however not be an issue in the hands of a capable director in this play. This propulsive, engrossing story is compelling enough to keep the audience engaged throughout.

It would be an injustice, to leave out the extent in which Lushaba-Madlala held the play together. Her juggling of the blade-like Congolese accent took very little away from her fulgent performance. Her winding timely offers gave flight to the plot and cast alike. She embodied Mama Nadi in every guffaw, sigh, woe, silence, and choler. A masterful lead performance.

Despite its unsavoury staging, as a story that unpacks the relationship of Congolese women with the war, each other, and the complicit parties at the periphery, the words Nottage has spoken into this forest of warfare in Ruined keep the spirit of these women alive.

They have glued flat my tongue against the roof of my mouth, my words; i had attempted to store them beneath it, no -- rather -- these trifling words. Now, in lieu of my handicap, if it be not at all troublesome to you, may you please burden yourself with but a few letters thereof, and when you see Her, in Her ears arrange them gently.

For over two decades the Democratic Republic of Congo has seemingly been deemed ruined. Ravaged and torn by what appears to be perennial war and disease to its populace, it has become a land that anyone who sees no means of profiteering fears or flees.

Isphithiphithi is an album for those who listen more than just entertainment value. The AmaPiano songs on the album achieve the purpose to ruminate and remind both us and those who will come after us of the musical zeitgeist of 2019, of just how important in our current popular cultural life AmaPiano is.

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