Rekindled scars of disparity: MOFFIE resurfaces in South Africa
In September 2025, audiences in Cape Town will have the opportunity to witness the poignant and thought-provoking one-person stage production, MOFFIE, at the Baxter Flipside Theatre. This powerful production, presented by the Common Humanity Arts Trust in association with The Baxter Theatre, offers a deeply personal exploration of South African conscription during the 1980s, focusing on themes of masculinity, conformity, and resilience.
Based on André Carl van der Merwe's novel, which is based on his own diaries from his time as a conscript in the South African army, MOFFIE delves into the complex and often traumatic experiences of young men conscripted into the South African Defence Force during the apartheid-era military regime. The story provides a raw and unfiltered glimpse into the harsh realities and personal conflicts that arose in such an oppressive environment.
The production's significance lies in its intimate and bold portrayal of conscription, a compulsory service for white South African men during apartheid. David Viviers, a beloved and award-winning actor, brings the central character, Nicholas, to life in an intimate, stripped-back, and raw performance. The design elements, such as those by Niall Griffin, enhance the storytelling by conveying the tension and resilience of the central character confronting this harsh military culture.
MOFFIE is not a staging of the film, but an examination of André Carl's book and the words he wrote. It offers audiences a space to reflect, sit with discomfort, find recognition, and possibly release. The play does not offer neat conclusions, but aims to bear witness and drive home the message that those trying to mold us into something we're not, should not be able to touch us.
Set during the so-called Angolan Border War, a pointless war that consumed teenage boys and turned them into silent men, MOFFIE addresses the lasting impact of the apartheid system on families, relationships, and communities, particularly for queer South Africans. The play resonated deeply with audiences in London, including those who had personal experiences with South African conscription.
Performances will be held from Tuesday to Saturday at 19:30, with matinees on Wednesdays at 15:00 and Saturdays at 15:30. Tickets range from R150 to R240. MOFFIE is a must-see for anyone seeking to understand a specific historical period in South Africa from a deeply personal perspective, illuminating the intersection of military oppression, societal expectations of masculinity, and the endurance of individual identity under extreme pressure.
[1] Source: Press Release, Common Humanity Arts Trust, 2025.
- Following the gripping one-person stage production, MOFFIE, audiences may find themselves delving into a thoughtful discussion about lifestyle and home-and-garden, as the emotional journey through South African conscription during the 1980s brings to light the personal conflicts faced in oppressive environments, and the resilience required to maintain individual identity.
- After witnessing the captivating and intimate performance of MOFFIE, some spectators might be inspired to reflect upon their own lifestyles and experiences in their homes and gardens, as they ponder the lasting impact of the apartheid system on families, relationships, and communities, particularly for queer South Africans.
