Scottburgh playwright explores human nature through stage play
TRIPTYCH was born from Keyur Maharaj's own struggle to understand what is right and who is wrong in society.
Keyur Maharaj, a filmmaker and playwright from Scottburgh on the KZN South Coast, is developing his first-ever stage play: TRIPYTCH.
It is an experimental three-act journey into the fractures of society, exploring human nature, faith and the helplessness people often feel.
TRIPTYCH was born from Keyur’s own struggle to understand what is right and who is wrong in society. Coming from a small town, he said it was so easy to get overwhelmed by the scale of the world, the hardships people face and the oppressive systems that hold people down.
“I wanted to hear the pain and grief the world exclaims daily and channel it into an experience that allows us to connect with reality,” he said.
“We do things alone all the time, but this production is meant to build community, knowing we can feel and experience both the good and the bad together.”
TRIPTYCH tackles the deconstruction of morality through three distinct parts. It begins with “Turn on a Dime,” where a woman faces her own morality in a battle between hope and hate.
This flows into “I hAtE tHiS lIfE,” a contemporary dance segment narrated by the grief and pain of the world, before concluding with “Pawn,” which questions what is right and who is wrong.
“The core message we want to leave the audience with is that community should never be compromised, and that together, we can cleanse the world,” said Keyur.
The youngster also explained that growing up in Scottburgh and working in his hometown of Park Rynie has profoundly shaped his perspective as an independent playwright and filmmaker.
“Bringing this production to life is very much a product of my mid-South Coast roots. It means a lot to me to be able to put together this show, and I hope the world comes to see it and support local talent.”
“We work hard to make a name for ourselves, fighting the creative fight to make art that inspires, but also art that allows us to live. However, we can only achieve our vision with a community around the arts and a drive to support these areas. People need to move, make a stand, and make a difference.”
This production is a completely self-funded project, built entirely on collaboration and love.
Keyur said he works with an incredible team of local creatives who commit their time and talent to bringing this magical, psychological experience to life.
The team is seeking sponsorships and community donations to cover essential base costs. They need funding to help secure the perfect venue, pay the hardworking cast and crew, and source the necessary set pieces and wardrobe.
Every contribution helps support the local arts. Donations of R1 000 and more secure donors an interactive moment with the cast during the invite-only media debut and premiere performance on September 10.
The public shows will be staged at the Chris Seabrooke Theatre, located at 255 St Thomas Road, Musgrave, Berea, on September 18 and 19.
The age restriction is 16+, and tickets are now available with seating options. Follow @lighthausmedia.za on Instagram for more information, behind-the-scenes, and updates as the crew approaches opening night.
Contact Light Haus Media at lighthausmedia.za@gmail.com to find out more.
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