They’re fast. They’re fun. They’re free. Each is 20 minutes, then you move on to the next. 

The Blitsteater productions truly are for everyone. From the interactive and family fun-filled Met die Maan Gepla and Haasvoël to the quieter and more introspective Apple, everyone can take something away. 

What really makes these shows so special is their simplicity. Set up in small rooms surrounded by black curtains and a few benches, the space feels stripped and intimate from the moment you sit down. 

In Met die Maan Gepla, a traditional puppet show is deconstructed so that we see Marelize Viljoen controlling everything while her every movement and facial expression are on display. The way she conducts herself when she voices the puppets/characters becomes just as much a part of the performance. 

This intimacy is also what allows Blitsteater productions to be more interactive. In Haasvoël, each audience member receives a name card to wear before entering. As soon as the show starts, Leticia (played by Lorraine Burger) involves the audience in her piece by calling on some names to “join” in the conference she is presenting. 

Poor “Prof Bart Niemand” is both credited for all her lovely slides and invited up from his seat to join in on her ridiculous imitation of the Haasvoël’s mating dance (which he does spectacularly, might I add).

The entire room becomes the stage in these productions. Burger moves up and down the rows of benches, inviting audience members to join in on the sounds and movements she is making, and her infectious energy soon has everyone participating.

A different kind of intimacy is present in Apple. In this physical theatre production, the audience find themselves seated in a circle around the ‘stage’, watching Mila Sobolewski and Sonja Louw move around each other from every possible angle. 

The setup of these spaces ultimately invites the audience to join in on what they’re watching, whether it be deeply intimate or hilariously interactive. 

If you have 20 minutes to spare, it’ll be a worthwhile way to spend the time. 

Title: Blitsteater, various productions and artists
Until: 4 April
Daily 11:00 • 11:30 • 12:00 • 12:30 • 15:00 • 15:30 • 16:00 • 16:30