Written by Matthew Gray and directed by Kálene Botha, Destiny twice over. And the fate of a half-eaten sandwich displays the power of theatre in a power-hungry world.
The play stars Matthew Gray as Eggo, Mieke Swart as Destiny, Jodeen Markram as Anna, Kgahlisho Matloga as Ed and Lukhona Mkunyana as Sid. The story starts with Eggo lazing about (no, contemplating on a better life, according to him) while the rest bustle around him. Conflict ensues when Eggo challenges the authority of Destiny, the leader of the household. The chaotic yet intentional set design of empty boxes provides a cleverly structured space for the household’s daily sandwich to “teleport” from one box to another – which implies intense focus from the cast in addition to their excellent pacing and well-polished performance. The play allowed for varying moments of both serious thought-provoking lines and knee-slapping comedy (cue plenty of slapstick and doos-puns). Matthew Gray’s performance is especially memorable, showing his range as he takes Eggo’s character from scheming underdog to unhinged dictator.
The characters, dressed in tattered business casual, comment on a working society in hot pursuit of a few crumbs while an absurd battle between fate and ego distracts them from the truth. The transformation of a sandwich into a weapon of power took viewers on a hilarious, delirious journey that, after a healthy dose of ridiculousness, would make one think, “Wait a minute! Is this… play about us?”
Destiny twice over. And the fate of a half-eaten sandwich is a beautiful example of how theatre can make you laugh till you ache, suspend your disbelief, and give you a bold reality check all in one bite.
By Emma Olivier
