Theatre on the Square stages solo play, The Return of Elvis du Pisanie
Experience a story of survival and self-discovery brought to life by Ashley Dowds.
Johannesburg theatre goers are being treated to an emotionally charged theatrical experience as The Return of Elvis du Pisanie, written and directed by Paul Slabolepszy, takes centre stage at Theatre on the Square.
The acclaimed one-man show opened on April 15 and will run from Wednesdays to Sundays until May 4.
Read more: Theatre on the Square brings Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to life
At the heart of the production is Du Pisanie, a 49-year-old East Rand salesman whose life unravels after retrenchment leaves him questioning his purpose.
Alone in his car and on the brink of despair, a song by Elvis Presley triggers lots of memories, taking him back to a childhood moment that shaped his life in ways he has long avoided confronting.
Portrayed by veteran actor Ashley Dowds, the role is as demanding as it is rewarding.
Dowds embodies multiple characters and emotional states, navigating a complex psychological landscape with precision and depth.
Speaking about the show, Dowd said, “Paul Slabolepszy is one of my favourite South African playwrights. And he’s always been a presence in my life. Actually, there are so many pieces of work of his that I’ve adored.
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“But in this particular story, it’s the real challenge for an actor because it’s a solo show. And he runs the gamut of so many huge moments and so many different characters. So it’s really a joy to play because, you know, you have to visualise where he journeys and who these people actually are.”
Dowds described the play as a story rooted in unresolved trauma, particularly within the context of masculinity.
“This play is essentially about trauma,
and living with it without dealing with it. And particularly as a man, I think it’s quite significant, because masculinity often says that you shouldn’t cry. You shouldn’t talk about something. And in a way, it’s stunted Elvis du Pisanie.
“And Elvis gets to a point where he cannot proceed any further. And he decides, well, that’s it. I’m out of here. I’m going to take myself out. But one last little thing that pops up is this song, The Elvis Presley.
“He says, who would have believed that a simple act of turning on a car radio can change the course of your life. In this moment of memory and remembering all these things, he manages to confront that moment, and that saved him.”
Dowds called on theatre lovers to come and get a live experience of the show staged at Theatre on the Square.
“Live theatre is always so much more present than watching something that’s recorded. Come and take on this joyride in a way, because at the end it’s going to be a happy ending for Elvis.”
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