High EQ
Dame Janet Suzman is great. It is to be expected. But newbie Khayalethu Anthony threatens to steal her thunder in this beautifully written play. Lara Foot, writer of
Solomon and Marion, drew her inspiration for this accomplished work from the social and political situation in South Africa, and in particular the brutal murder of actor Brett Goldin, and his mother’s response to the tragedy.
Suzman is a mother who has lost her son to violence and her daughter to emigration; not an uncommon situation in this country. She is wrapped up in her misery until she meets the young Solomon (Khayalethu Anthony) and together they embark on an emotional journey to truth, acceptance, forgiveness and eventual release. The emotions are raw and it is not exactly a happy story but through Foot’s words and Suzman and Solomon’s superb acting it is brought to life beautifully and it is utterly mesmerizing. 
Suzman’s extremely experienced and calculated acting is neatly balanced by Solomon’s youthful, slightly dangerous, honest acting. The weight of the play feels just right between these two. Twenty-six-year-old Khayalethu Anthony made his mainstream theatre debut with this production in the role of the young Solomon. He was nominated for Best Script Writer at the Baxter’s 2011 Zabalaza Theatre Festival where he wrote and directed Inqwithelo Zemimoya, performed in isiXhosa.
“I started googling the name Janet Suzman just after I heard that I got the role. I felt like I have a mountain to climb. She is a world-class actress with an incredible performance reputation. To share the same stage with one of the finest actors in the world is more than a privilege for me; it is more than an honour. It just simply is the best thing that has happened to me in my life.”- Anthony.
Despite his feelings, Khayalethu Anthony seemed comfortable and confident sharing a stage with one of our country’s leading actresses.
Patric Curtis’ design is sumptuous and detailed – gorgeous. And Mannie Manim’s lighting adds ambience to the stage.
One not to miss.
Runs only until Solomon and Marion runs 20 July at The Baxter Golden Arrow Studio. 7pm and booking is through Computicket on 0861 915 8000, on-line at www.computicket.co.za or at any Shoprite Checkers outlet countrywide
Astrid Stark 