Mutloatse finally gives Matilda avoice in The Suit

Accomplished writer and publisher Mothobi Mutloatse has re-worked the theatre adaptation of Can Temba’s popular short story, The Suit. 

Mutloatse who adapted the story into a theatre piece more than 20 years ago, is presenting what he calls a 360-degree analysis of Matilda’s story called The Suit Concer-tized. The play, which is brought in partnership with Sowetan, is heading to Mandela stage in Joburg Theatre, Braamfontein, from September 15 to 24. 

Initially, the play was staged for the first time in 1994, the reimaged version of The Suit version includes an orchestra and singers. For over two decades theatre lovers have been presented with a story of Matilda and Philemon, a young couple whose marriage was rocked by a cheating scandal. Matilda cheated and was caught in bed with another man by her husband. The man ran away leaving behind a suit he was wearing.  

In The Suit Concer-tized Mutloatse is finally giving Matilda a voice. The story will be told by seasoned actor Vusi Kunene, Khutjo Green, Job Kubatsi, Brian Temba and Alistair Dube. It is directed by Warona Seane and Mutloatse is the executive producer. 

The legendary writer explores the story of a young woman in Sophiatown who dumped her colourful career just in the name of love. Speaking to Sowetan, Mutloatse said the idea to tell Matilda’s story came to him during lockdown while sitting at home.

“The story looks at Matilda, who she was before she married and became a housewife. She was a violin virtuoso and led an orchestra in Sophiatown. The story presents the unwritten narrative of Matilda in a dramatised format. Before she got married, she had a life of her own. 

“For too long, we have been focusing on telling Philemon’s side of the story neglecting her part. I am doing something which I should have done 20 years ago. We are telling her version through an orchestra and towards the end of the show, the young Matilda emerges playing a violin.” 

The production will feature 24 young people, including singers, who will be led by young directors who are giving the music a fresh interpretation.  

“I have chosen a musical director and his assistant because I want them to give it a fresh interpretation. They are both innovative and full of energy. Actress Khutjo Green, who is versatile, will bring the story of Matilda to life. While Brian Temba, the man in the middle, plays former member of the orchestra who strayed to her house and rekindled their music-ship after a long time. He is the man who leaves behind evidence in the form of a suit.” 

The Suit was first published in 1963 and as a production it has been staged at various theatres.