Stage: Trial and Error, new courtroom drama premieres in Cape Town

Exciting news is that Trial and Error, a new courtroom drama is premiering in Cape Town at the Baxter Masambe from: September 4-14, 2024. The performances run September 4-7 and September 10-14 at 19h30. Written and directed by Fleur du Cap Theatre Award nominee Emma Amber, the play is set in America “delves into racial bias and mental health within the American justice system”. A feature of this production is that the audience is invited in as the jury as has a final say in the outcome of this trial. It is a six hander, with a fantastic cast- a big production in the intimate Masambe. The play had a 3-show workshopped run at the Redhill Arts Festival in July [2024] but the run at the Baxter marks its premiere in its expanded and final form, with full production values in terms of set and design. Read on for more. Info as supplied:

Trial and Error – courtroom drama

Origen Productions is thrilled to announce the upcoming performance of Trial and Error, a compelling courtroom drama that delves deep into the intricacies of the American justice system. Written and directed by the Fleur du Cap Theatre Award nominee Emma Amber, this thought-provoking play will be staged at the Baxter Masambe Theatre from September 4-14, 2024.

About the play:

Trial and Error is a powerful narrative that explores the complex themes of racial bias, loss, acceptance, and mental health within the American justice system. The story centers on the trial of nineteen-year-old Amari Davies, who is charged with manslaughter and neglect on two counts after a tragic car accident claims the lives of Simon’s parents. The audience is invited to participate as the jury, placing the weighty decision of Amari’s fate in their hands. As the trial unfolds, factors such as race, a controversial drug test result, and the raw emotions of those involved are brought to light, challenging the audience to confront their own biases and beliefs. Set in Georgia, USA, Trial and Error is a dramatic exploration of justice, empathy, and the human condition, offering an immersive experience.

About the writer and director: Emma Amber has worked as an actress, director, producer, and voice-over artist since graduating. Her impressive body of work includes the formation of Origen Productions and the successful South African run of The Marvelous Wonderettes, for which she received a Fleur du Cap Theatre Award nomination for best new director. Emma’s other recent works include writing and directing the romcom Love me, feed me, never leave me and directing Five Women Wearing the Same Dress.

Cast: The production boasts a talented cast, including:

• Mamello Makhetha as Amari Davies: Best known for her role as Mistress Quince in Geoffrey Hyland’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Andi Colombo’s Double Star, Meyer and Abrahamse’s Alice in Wonderland and Linda Makgabutlane’s Shacks and Yoga mats.
• Kayla Van Tonder as the Defence Lawyer: Kayla’s television debut as Christa du Toit on KykNET’s DanZ! and her role in the film Evade have earned her a nomination for Best supporting actress at the Branson International Film Festival.
• Ethan Saunders as Simon: A versatile performer with a background in both stage and film, Ethan recently starred in the Tubi film Killer Body Count.
• Sage Van Niekerk as the Prosecution Lawyer: Sage’s credits include Netflix’s Blood and Water and Justice Served, with a notable nomination for Best Actor at the 2021 Cape Town 48 Hour Film Festival.
• Luella Holland as the Doctor: A multi-talented actress and comedian, Luella has been a staple at The Kalk Bay Theatre, starring in productions like That’s What She Said and Women on Top.
• Daniel Stromin as the Policeman: Daniel’s recent work includes performances in Op Dees Aarde, Good Heavens and the upcoming film Deep Fake.

Don’t miss out on a chance to become the jury! Performances will run from September 4-7 and September 10-14 at 19h30 at the Baxter Masambe Theatre. This is a limited run, so be sure to book your tickets early. Tickets are available on Webtickets.

About Origen Productions:

Origen Productions is a dynamic theatre company committed to producing high-quality, thought-provoking performances that resonate with contemporary audiences. Founded by Emma Amber, Origen Productions has become a respected name in the South African theatre scene, known for its innovative approach and dedication to storytelling.

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