Mandela Day celebrations came to an absolutely gripping conclusion in Randfontein during the weekend.

Born To Move Theatre Productions moved the crowd with their outstanding play called One Pull, which was performed at the Life Esidimeni Recovery Centre on Saturday, 20 July.

It was the last day of the Mandela Day celebrations organised by the Rand West City Local Municipality. In attendance were patients of the centre, staff of the Mayor’s office, the Mayor himself, various media and guests. The team of performers included several young men – the youngest being 13 – and one woman, 29-year-old Bridgett Nono as the leading actors.

The play was about just how bad things can get and will end in a broken family.

Not only does the father violently abuse his son and wife, both physically and mentally, he rapes her. Tired of the abuse, the young son takes matters into his own hands and kills his father. He then ends up using drugs while the mother begs for food on the street and takes drugs.

Bridgett, a former drug and alcohol addict herself, told the Herald that the group’s aim was to send a strong message to patients at the centre that drugs are not the answer.

“My son and I were also abused emotionally and physically. We both also ended up using drugs shortly after my husband’s death. It’s not easy. I understand why we use drugs, but it is a choice. Just know that as an addict you are never alone.

No matter how tough your situation is, there is always a way out. Yes, it is not easy, but you will overcome it.”