Thespians and theatre enthusiasts are buzzing with excitement and applause as ‘Dear Kaffi’, the acclaimed play directed by Bolanle Austen-Peters, continues its South African tour.
A statement sent to Saturday Beats noted that with its rich Nigerian cast, the play had opened to critical acclaim in Pretoria on February 27. The tour is at the invitation of the South African State Theatre, whose partnership with Bolanle Austen-Peters Productions is promoting a two-week tour of the play across several theatres in South Africa.
“We are using this collaboration to bridge cultural gaps,” says Austen-Peters, who is leading the cast and crew as director and producer.
She added that the tour would be “two weeks of extreme excellence on stage.”
She continued, “The opening night was sold out and had dignitaries that included the Acting Nigerian Ambassador to South Africa, His Excellency, Temitope Ajayi, the Chief Executive Officer of the South African State Theatre, Sibongiseni Mkhize and the Artistic Director of the South African State Theatre, Aubrey Sekhat. This is the second time that BAP Productions will tour South Africa.
“With humour, music, and a sharp critique of cultural norms, ‘Dear Kaffy’ is a vibrant exploration of love, identity, and the pursuit of authenticity in the face of overwhelming pressure. The Nigerian cast of the play in South Africa include
Uzo Osimkpa, who plays the lead role of Kike; Yewande Osamein (Tolani), Abiola Lepe (Bidemi), Sharon Onyegbula (Shalewa) and Ralph Okoro (Tamuno). Others are: Hector Amiwero (Debo), Obiora Maduegbuna (Debo), Floyd Igbo (Femi), Bimbo manuel who plays the role of Father, and Bukola Ogunnote who plays the role of Mother.”
