“God of Women,” a compelling play created by Sifiso Nyathi and directed by Keamogetsi Joseph Molapong, was performed at the National Theatre of Namibia recently.

The production delves into themes of identity, culture and women’s resilience. 

More than just a play, “God of Women” functions as an interactive classroom, a societal mirror and a celebration of African storytelling. 

More than 2 000 Grade 9 pupils from Windhoek, Okahandja and Rehoboth participated enthusiastically. Their involvement underscored the notion that theatre extends beyond mere art; it is a medium for education, empowerment and connection, according to the play’s organisers. Molapong reflected on his journey: “This was the play I presented while finishing my degree at the University of Namibia; it was my graduation performance. You might compare it to a literature review in research.”  He stressed the necessity for actors to fully comprehend the text, emphasising that given the literary nature of the play, they must skillfully transform the written content into engaging performances that resonate with audiences, including lerarners.

“It’ s about having actors convey the text through their voices and emotions, effectively sharing that message with the audience,” he stated. Molapong highlighted that Namibians possess rich stories to tell and experiences to share — narratives that represent both individual and communal journeys. 

“In the case of ‘God of Women,’ the play exemplifies this storytelling tradition. Although the title may seem ambiguous, the core of the production is rooted in the voices of the women in the spotlight,” the director added.

Through this play, these women share profoundly personal stories of struggle, resilience and survival. This authenticity and emotional intensity render the play both striking and exceptional. 

By engaging these women’s narratives, audiences gain rare and poignant insights into the lived experiences of many Namibians, specifically for educational purposes directed at learners.

The cast includes seasoned performers such as Christiaan Appolus and Toucy Tjijimbo, alongside talents like Mervin Classen and Kuzajatu Maamberua. “God of Women” is a required text for Grade 9s, and is acknowledged as an important literary work at the tertiary level, where it is examined in greater detail for its themes, cultural relevance and literary value.

-psiririka@nepc.com.na