Theatre / Amy Jephta
Bristol Old Vic prepares for ‘A Good House’: the biting satire from South African writer Amy Jephta
In a world premiere production, A Good House is set to open at The Royal Court on January 17 before arriving at Bristol Old Vic on February 14 for a three-week run.
In her second directorial show for Bristol Old Vic, artistic director Nancy Medina takes the helm, bringing South African writer Amy Jephta’s satire to the stage in a bid to find “the classics of the future”.
Following Sihle and Bonolo, a couple who are new to the suburban town of Stillwater, the narrative examines the fallout from the sudden appearance of an empty – and wholly unwelcome – shack in the area.
is needed now More than ever
Mimî M Khayisa (Bonolo) and Sifiso Mazibuko (Sihle) in A Good House – photo: Camilla Greenwell
A Good House interrogates the idea of belonging, and the sacrifices we make in our quest to fit in with society.
‘Once they’ve been here long enough, they’re no longer squatters.
Then they’re simply…
Neighbours.’
The cast comprises Kai Luke Brummer as Andrew, Olivia Darnley as Lynette, Mimî M Khayisa as Bonolo, Sifiso Mazibuko as Sihle, Robyn Rainsford as Jess, and Scott Sparrow as Christopher.
Members of the cast for A Good House – artwork: Feast Creative
Assisting Nancy Medina’s direction, Tatenda Shamiso is associate director for the production, with Gillian Greer as the dramaturg. Design comes from ULTZ, assisted by Shaquelle Newell-Grant, and costume from Lucy Walshaw.
Lighting and sound design is provided by Chris Davey and Elena E Peña respectively, with musical composition from Femi Temowo.
Full ensemble, A Good House – photo: Camilla Greenwell
Voice and accent coaching comes from Hazel Holder and dramatherapy from Samantha Adams. Arthur Carrington is the casting director.
100 free tickets will be made available for preview performances of A Good House, aimed specifically at newcomers to the theatre.
Photo: Camilla Greenwell
A Good House is at Bristol Old Vic from February 14-March 8 at 7.30pm, with additional 2.30pm matinee shows on Thursday and Saturday (no shows Sunday). Tickets are available at www.bristololdvic.org.uk, where details of the limited free ticket offer are also provided.
This production is presented by Bristol Old Vic and Royal Court Theatre in association with The Market Theatre. The show was originally co-commissioned by the Royal Court Theatre with the Fugard Theatre, South Africa.
Main photo: Michael Wharley; artwork: Feast Creative
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