Change can be interpreted in a number of ways with fear and optimism occupying separate ends of the spectrum.
That’s the focus of Gateway Theatre’s upcoming production Valley Song, a story of relationships against the backdrop of post-apartheid South Africa where a grandfather and his granddaughter struggle with the shifting social climate.
“It’s a beautiful story,” said Jovanni Sy, Gateway’s artistic director, adding he saw the original touring cast from South Africa perform it 20 years ago and feels it carries a heartwarming and uplifting message.
“It’s also a timeless story because it’s about generations and how they deal with change. Sometimes, older generations that are full of wisdom and are fearful, while younger ones aren’t and are hopeful, innocent and filled with a little but of naiveté,” said Sy, who is also directing the production.
In Valley Song, the grandfather, 76-year-old Abraam “Buks” Jonkers still works the land that remains mostly owned by whites, while granddaughter Veronica has her sights set on leaving the rural life — and its legacy of servitude — and taking her beautiful singing voice to the stages of Johannesburg.
Their disparate visions of life come under stress when a new landowner considers buying the property leaving Buks and Veronica with a decision; remain on the land with ties to the past, or chart a course for the future in a land rife with societal change.
“There’s something so recognizable between Buks and his granddaughter, and yet despite this enormous love, generations want different things and are restless,” Sy said. “The young ones want tomorrow to begin today and that can be frightening for someone who’s 76.”
Overall, the message is one of tenderness amidst life’s struggles.
“There’s a rift, but ultimately the message is one of love and unity which is so appealing and satisfying,” Sy said. “There’s something so appealing about the dramatic possibilities with those kinds of different perspectives.”
Satisfying, too, is the interplay of actors David Adams (Buks), and Sereana Malani (Veronica), Sy said.
“We’re so lucky to have two incredible actors for this. We saw a few people, but David and Sereana are so perfect for these roles and lovely with one another,” Sy said.
Due to scheduling, the two were auditioned separately, but fortunately the bond and chemistry between them was immediate and profound, Sy said.
“David has worked at the Gateway a number of times and has a reputation of being an incredibly open and generous actor,” Sy said. “So, I felt really comfortable casting them separately because I knew David’s character. And Sereana is equally as beautifully spirited and receptive.
“You really need that connection for this play and they have that. It was absolutely instant.”
Valley Song runs at Gateway Theatre’s MainsStage Feb. 5 - 21.
For more information, visit gateway theatre.com or call the box office at 604-270-1812.
