25 Apr 2019

Thari, a choreoplay by Mophato Dance Theatre, of women detailing their experiences of abuse through swirl dancing, has showed at Maitisong Theatre as part of Maitisong Festival.

Inspired by campaigns such as #EsengmoNgwaneng, #IShallNotForget #IWearWhatIWant and issues that women went through in Botswana, the play highlights the joy of being a woman, and consequently the pain and suffering endured by women. 

Director and choreographer, Andrew Kola said there was always an issue around women, and he felt the urge to put it on stage. An emotionally charged yet powerfully passionate, Thari opens with a poetic melodious song by poet Anita Tau. The play explores the physical abuse and sexual assault women face in their everyday lives. Thari, a piece of marvel art, has managed to advocate as a great yardstick for discussion of such issues.

One monologue, in which Lone Motsumi describes a rape assault, dance is intertwined throughout and the piece set an emotive, forceful horrific rape scene. The epilogue allowed Motsumi to vent her rage without any restraints and allowed the audience to see the face of the physical and mental pain of a victim subjected to such violent extremes.

Thari, a painful necessary display of women abuse was put together in a period of two weeks and research was drawn from various media platforms, gender based organisation centres as well as experiences by the cast members.

Kola said funds permitting and partners coming forth, they would take the production around the country as a way of sensitising the public on issues of abuse among women.

Thari: Choreoplay

Cast:      Lone Motsumi,                          Mamello Magabo,

              Makhotso Gaseitsiwe,                              Stephanie Keitumetse,

              Lesego Molefi,

              Karabo Mpai,

              Boitumelo Mphusu,

              Phenyo Oaitse

Singers: Pesalema Motshodi,                     Lesedi Oitshepile

Poet:     Anita Tau

Band:    Mokgweetsi Kabomo,                   Andrew Chinganga,

            Tshepo Thipe,

             Ntirelang Berman,

             Tumelo Mafoko

Director & Choreographer:                            Andrew Kola. ENDS