The National Theatre of Namibia will be frank and family friendly in this weekend’s run of ‘Tselane and the Giant’.
Presenting the Tswana folktale as directed by Veronique Mensah, musically directed by Nyasha J Kuchekana-Chirau and adapted in collaboration with the cast, the children’s theatre play follows the story of eight-year-old Tselane who is abducted from her village home by a giant which terrifies the community.
Shaken but united, the villagers along with the audience devise a plan for Tselane’s safe return.
Intended for both parents and children, ‘Tselane and the Giant’ is a cautionary and educative tale. One that uses the enlightening and engaging power of theatre to raise awareness about child safety, endangerment and well-being while considering the country’s particular social ills.
“It’s the gateway for parents to start conversations with children on safety,” said Mensah at a recent NTN theatre talk. “This production encourages us to have the difficult conversations and ask the difficult questions.”
Urging parents to attend with their children in a bid to find avenues for challenging but necessary discussions, the play considers safety both at home and at school and stars Lahja Haufiku as Tselane with Cynderella Simana, Otja Henock Kambaekua, Tabitha Gaueises, Tove Kangotue, Tulimeke Shileka, Richard Claasen, Paula Kasinda, Walter Kahivere and Tapz Munya joining the cast.
The ensemble teasing the play in online trailers on social media describes the play as exciting, educational, dramatic, kind, friendly, informative, empowering and not to be missed.
