Few events came closer to derailing the negotiations for a democratic South Africa than the assassination of the immensely popular South African Communist Party secretary-general Chris Hani in April 1993. The militant youth took it as proof that the proletariat were about to be sold out. There were renewed calls for mass protest, for a ‘red winter’.
Red Winter in Gugs is a coming of age story set in that turbulent time. Qagamba, a schoolgirl, falls for young comrade, Phila, with tragic consequences.
The play is performed in what has become the accepted style of our ‘poor man’s’ theatre, a narrative told by one actor playing all the parts. Although many of us are tiring of this technique, which despite the versatility of a performer still has severe limitations, Phumeza Rashe pulls it off. She has a stunning stage presence, captivating good looks and the audience instantly warms to her empathic portrayal.
The shifting chronology used in plotting the story does not always enhance the drama and the insertion of a lengthy, redundant, recorded political speech is deflating. Projecting photographs of the struggle from as far back as the 1960s adds disorder, and although these may give historical background, the focus would be better if kept to the period in which the story is set.
Developed by Sizisa Ukhanyo Company and directed by Itumeleng Wa-Lehulere, Red Winter was selected as one of the best of the 2008 Tenth Anniversary Ikhwezi Theatre Festival, and stands as testament to the importance of that initiative
