PRESS: Carlo Daniels in premiere of DIE UITWEG at Suidoosterfees

Christine Skinner

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DIE UITWEG, a new production directed by Sjaka Septembir and starring Carlo Daniels, will premiere at this year’s Suidoosterfees.

Photo Supplied.

Featuring music by Gertjie Besselsen, the text is adapted from a Kafka short story, Blumfeld, an Elderly Bachelor. DIE UITWEG is an inspired physical theatre piece that transports you to a world of disorder and playful absurdity.

It will be presented from 1 to 3 May 2025 at Suidoosterfees and has been made possible thanks to support from AK21, the National Arts Council. Suidoosterfees and the Johann Brink Trust.

DIE UITWEG tells the story about a pedantic man who tries to maintain order in his social life and at work. When he gets home after a challenging day, he finds two little balls inexplicably bouncing up and down in his lounge.

This disrupts his daily routine, embarrassing him in front of his neighbours and drawing him into an awkward, darkly comedic situation which he quickly needs to find his way out of.

The production is performed in Afrikaans.

“We have transferred the story to the Cape milieu, bringing the timeless beauty of Kafka’s words to life in a new way,” says Septembir. “I am thrilled to have acclaimed actor Carlo Daniels in this role, who creates a unique energy on stage, while Gertjie Besselsen’s soundscape enriches and uplifts our theatrical experience.”

Gertjie Besselsen’s music in DIE UITWEG acts as a second performer. His live score breathes, responds and challenges the onstage action, weaving a sound-world that’s playful, haunting, and powerfully present.

Carlo Daniels is a talented physical theatre performer known for his expressive style. He brings a raw honesty and intensity to the stage that captivates audiences time and time again.

Gertjie Besselsen is a musical creative who transforms the stage into a vibrant soundscape. His music creates the atmosphere and emotional drive behind every movement.

Sjaka S. Septembir is a poet, theatre-maker, and director whose work explores the intersection of poetry, physical theatre, and ritual. His productions have been nominated for several awards, and his unique approach to storytelling has earned him recognition as an artist who blends performance with depth and daring. With more than three decades of experience, Sjaka’s work challenges conventions while remaining rooted in creative integrity and embodied presence.

Die Uitweg will be performed for three performances only at Suidoosterfees:

1 Mei 20:00

2 Mai 09:00

3 Mei 14:30

Tickets cost R150

Bookings can be made at Webtickets