Shannon Esra shines in My Left Breast at Mkwanazi Theatre, Kingsmead College
The audience dives into the heart-wrenching tale of My Left Breast portrayed by Shannon Esra.
In a mesmerising one-woman show at Mkwanazi Theatre, Kingsmead College, Shannon Esra delivered an emotional and powerful performance in My Left Breast, portraying the character of Susan Miller. The hour-long production captivated audiences with its emotional depth and universal themes, leaving a lasting impact on all who witnessed it.
Directed by Janet Baylis, My Left Breast holds a special significance for Esra and the crew. Baylis, drawing from experience, was inspired to bring this story to life after witnessing Esra’s talent in a monologue performance 25 years prior. The decision to revisit and expand upon that initial piece proved to be a deeply personal and cathartic journey for all involved.
Esra’s portrayal of Susan Miller resonated deeply with audience members, evoking a range of emotions and drawing parallels to their own experiences. Clare van Niekerk, moved by the performance, expressed how relatable and moving the show was, remarking on its ability to tap into shared human experiences.
Carla Führi, a Grade 10 learner at Kingsmead, found the performance to be not only phenomenal but also deeply personal. Drawing from her own family’s experience with breast cancer, Carla highlighted Esra’s ability to convey the complexities of the human experience, making the production accessible and relevant to audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
Sophia Pearse, another Grade 10 learner, echoed similar sentiments, emphasising the universality of the themes explored in My Left Breast. Pearse found the performance to be not only incredible but also profoundly relatable, drawing connections to her own family’s experiences with cancer. Her words highlighted the show’s ability to resonate with audiences from diverse walks of life.
My Left Breast stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and the resilience of the human spirit. Through Esra’s masterful performance, audiences were invited to explore themes of love, loss, and the enduring strength found in shared experiences. As the curtain closed on this unforgettable production, it left an indelible mark on all who bore witness, reminding us of the transformative power of theatre to unite, inspire, and heal.
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