In apartheid-era South Africa, migrant worker Sizwe Banzi is getting desperate. To survive and support his wife and family, he needs a job. But to get a job he needs a valid pass, which he does not qualify for. While Sizwe is out walking one evening, fate places a corpse across his path. Looking through the pockets of the deceased man he discovers that his name was Robert Zwelinzima and that his papers are in order! Can he take the name, steal the papers, lose his identity and destroy the man known as Sizwe Banzi? - Sizwe Banzi is Dead is a story that has struck a universal chord.

World renowned director Peter Brook continues his investigation of the role of theatre in political situations of repression, focusing on themes connected with identity, humanity, truth and survival. This engaging and humorous production of beautiful simplicity pushes us to contemplate the philosophical question: what is a man?

Starring Habib Dembele and Pitcho Womba Konga, the show is in the midst of runs worldwide from Jerusalem to Dublin, and its tour stops in Calgary for four shows only, September 12th - 15th at The Grand theatre. Performed entirely in French with English subtitles (which should be an interesting experience for live theatre) the show kicks off Theatre Junction’s exciting 2007/2008 season.

Sizwe Banzi is Dead was written in collaboration with two African Actors, John Kani and Winston Ntshona, both of whom appeared in the original production. Originally debuting in Cape Town, South Africa in 1972, it debuted a year later in England and won The London Theatre Critics award for the best play of 1974. Thirty-five years later, the show’s themes are as important a message as it was back then. Still today in Africa and other parts of the world, people are treated as second class citizens. Director Brook told The Economist that the play is, for him, “about a fundamental lack of respect for the African” which exists to this day in the world.

Critically acclaimed, Sizwe Banzi is Dead has been included in lists such as “Masterpieces of the twentieth century” and “most significant plays of the Twentieth century.” The Broadway version of the show has lead to actors John Kani and Winston Ntshona making history by co-winning the Tony Award. Do not miss this chance to see one of the greatest works of the twentieth century live and in person at The Grand!

Theatre Junction presents

Size Banzi is Dead

September 12th - 15th

(403) 205-2922

www.atthegrand.ca