In 2013 the Market Theatre Laboratory produced a work entitled ‘Milk and Honey’ as part of a reflection on the centenary since the passing of the 1913 Land Act. The ensemble work probed the expansive topic of land and identity. The work found expression in words, in song and in dance.
Now in 2019 we revisit an extract of the work and expand upon the closing solo performance originally performed by Alfred Mothlapi. The question of land as a locus for identity remains a critical question for contemporary, predominantly black South Africans. The images of the ritualistic dance form of the Xoi San infused with Tswana traditional dance and contemporary interpretive dance forms brought to life by the spirit figure of the character Sello, attempting to regather the land of his people remains an image seared into the memories of the collaborators that originally conceived the work. Added to this is the fresh perspective of Billy Langa who has engaged with Alfred on the expansion of this solo into a duet. ‘Milk and Honey Revisited’ is a complex and compelling grapple with this central question.
Written and Directed | Khayelihle Dom Gumede
Choreographed by | Nhlanhla Mahlangu and Alfred Mothlapi in collaboration with Billy Langa
Musical Direction by | Nhlanhla Mahlangu
Performed by | Alfred Mothlapi and Billy Langa
