This is our third year of our partnership with the Market Theatre Laboratory, in which we bring you the freshest new work. As part of a business in theatre course, the Lab performers are taught to produce, stage and market their own shows which they will bring on tour to POPArt. This year, we are excited to present a double bill of Greek Classics refreshed and re-told by professional directors : Nondumiso Msimanga and Mahlatsi Mokgonyana. 

When questions go unanswered because society fears its own truths... A woman speaks. A tragic myth of never-ending shackles mirrors the injustices of today. The Love of the Nightingale, written by Timberlake Wertenbaker, releases the realities from the myth of Philomele. Her violated voice breaks the unrelenting curse.

Nondumiso Lwazi Msimanga directs this adaptation of the myth of the rape of Philomele in collaboration with a cast of six-strong Market Lab ingenues that bring the myth home. The Love of the Nightingale is showing at Pop Art from 13-16 April.

Produced in collaboration with the Market Theatre Lab and POPArt. 

Accommodation provider: Curiocity Hostels, Maboneng 

Audience Responses

It was a great play with amazing actors and very good direction, I was happy I did not miss it.

I wasn't familiar with the original Greek tragedy's plot and so sometimes it was a bit difficult to understand what was happening. Other than that, it was very atmospheric and intense.

Excellent adaptation.