Day of Absence is a play written by Douglas Turner Ward that poses the question – what would happen if all the black people in an undermined society disappeared? This production, performed at the South African State Theatre under the direction of Diamond Mokoape, takes place in a seemingly fictional world despite the placement of the American flag and the use of Southern-American accents by an all- South African cast. This already-intriguing concept is executed by means of satire, conflict-enriching comedy and showcases the white people of this world in absolute desperation and in dire need of being served. The characters presented as white people is entirely based on assumption through white painted faces and language-usage that seems to echo ideologies around ‘blackface’ as ‘whiteface’.
This production formed part of the Youth Expressions festival in 2017, where performances by Itumeleng Mofokeng, Mphoentle Ngoepe and Katlego Chale were truly commendable. One could forgive the unduly-executed accent work by one or two individual cast members by being entertained by the well-directed comedic moments that allows for laughter at every opportunity – including the inconsistency in accents. The sarcastic and pilloried manner in which the play was written, was executed passionately by a solid ensemble and is a delight to watch – even though the underlying political message doesn’t go unnoticed.
Social issues are mentioned that seems specific to the American context but remain universal and relatable on a global scale. The staging itself in terms of spectacle lacks refinement but could easily be justified by the circumstances that those remaining behind find themselves in.
This production does not call for scrutiny, or artistically motivated critique. It calls for acceptance of the world created, while meaning to entertain with the purpose of keeping you engaged with the relevant sociopolitical context – both of these done sufficiently by Diamond Mokoape and the cast.
This review is based on the DOA performances at the South African State theatre Youth Expressions festival in June 2017 starring Mphoentle Ngoepe, Donachcha Danster, Itumeleng Mofokeng, Katlego Chale, Falakhe Makhubo and Tiego Mashabathakga. Catch this production with a few cast adjustments at the 2018 National Arts Festival Fringe.
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