London’s Newest Theatre, Sadler’s Wells East in Stratford, continues to increase its impressive portfolio of productions, the most recent of which was KVS Mimi Shebeen directed by Alesandra Seutin. Indeed, this performance embodies the life of the Activist and Musician, Miriam Makeba (known as Mimi) through the oppression of Apartheid, a period of time, where Black South Africans were denied freedom of speech and their movements limited to areas where ‘Non-European’ citizens were allowed.
A Shebeen is a term associated with an unlicensed drinking den that soon became a ‘safe space’ for Black South Africans to connect and share their misgivings about the life they were subjected to at the time of Apartheid. Shebeens presented them with an escape from the daily reality of being made to feel like second class citizens under colonial rule.
We heard messages of Mimi’s inner feelings of contempt towards the government at the time, citing that to enter their territory would be tantamount to disturbing their sleep. She then goes onto tell us that she feels country-less and her only hope is her voice.
Suffice to say the M&M effect of music and movement epitomised the performers dance sequences complemented by the instrumentals, and demonstrated the cultural uplifting diners in the Shebeens experienced against the backdrop of the daily struggles to be heard and respected by their rulers.
The attire worn by all performers swung between black, representing mourning and purple, resembling hope of a time of freedom.
By end of the performance, we come to understand that Apartheid did not compromise the unity of those frequenting Shebeens.
For further information on this production, click here
