Breasts: a play About Men
The premise of the piece is very simple. It’s about men talking about women; their mothers, daughters, lovers and others. Except in the telling these men inadvertently reveal more about themselves than the women concerned’ –Greig Coetzee
This one-man show presents an intimate journey of self-discovery through the stories of four white South African men - a Comrades marathon runner tries to prove to his wife that he cries, a best man and groom make fools of themselves at a disastrous wedding reception, and a man tries to have his final say at his hippie mother’s grave.
Although written in 2000, the play interrogates men’s obsession with and objectification of womens’ breasts that have gone unchanged to this day. The play suggests that these men have lost a crucial connection with the women in their lives and their attempts to reconnect with them, more often than not, results in false perceptions, frustration, animosity and unhealthy obsessions. These characters, however flawed, offer a glimmer of hope that through their mistakes and failures, this generation can learn how to be and make better men.
Audience Responses
Beautifully directed and acted, we both enjoyed this enormously. Cameron Robertson has a riveting stage presence (and a great singing voice) and held us completely captive, even while the audience was still taking their seats. I thought the first sketch to be a rather stereotypical caricature of the unenlightened and sexist white South African male, although not without irony and humour. The best man and groom sketches were the best in terms of content, and the last one had moments of real poetry and intensity. I would definitely recommend the show.
Loved this show!! It wasn’t just really very funny and perfectly delivered but it was also rewardingly poignant and we felt surprisingly fulfilled after this short one hour performance. Also loved the atmosphere of the bar area and timing of 7pm start is perfect to eat after the show!
End on a funny note rather than a down note.
Mediocre content well executed
I thought the show was okay. The actor wasn't able to fully explore any of the issues that men face in society today. The play also felt quite dated.
It left me wanting more!!! Funny and carefully nuanced, recognisable types. Transitions between characters well handled. Self-mockery by last character, Rama, beautifully observed.
Great
Very interesting and felt like a modern analysis of men. Their own issues with their expectations and also the society's expectations.
Na interesting watch covering a much wider range of emotions than anticipated. Would 100% recommend
brilliant performance, great writing but watch out for hashmetoo !!!
Punchy, amusing, poignant and well delivered.
Outstanding, comical, gripping depiction of raw male emotion. Men and women enjoyed the show equally. Brilliant acting. Highly recommended.
Thoroughly enjoyed an excellent show. Brilliant acting!