SENSE destigmatises womanhood, infertility, identity, mental health and social stigma

A theatre production that is created to give voice to experiences that are often misunderstood or stigmatised, including issues of womanhood, infertility, identity, mental health and social stigma, is coming to The Market Theatre this November. 

SENSE, a contemporary South African theatre production presented by Thato “Kingvejah012” Moeng will run from 5 to 8 November at The Market Theatre Kippies Fringe. 

The production uses storytelling and performance to foster empathy and understanding around issues of womanhood, infertility, identity, mental health and social stigma. 

The play follows the journey of Elsie, a married woman struggling with infertility whose life is shattered when she discovers that her husband’s mistress is pregnant with his child. 

Through the encounter between wife and mistress, the play exposes the emotional and psychological impact of societal expectations placed on women, while interrogating the unequal standards that shape relationships, marriage and family life.

Alongside Elsie’s story is that of Luthando, a young woman navigating adulthood in a society where financial security is often mistaken for love, validation and opportunity. As she becomes involved in a relationship with an older, financially established man, she is forced to confront the consequences of choices shaped by economic vulnerability and social pressure.

Together, these stories spark important conversations about infertility stigma, patriarchy, gender inequality, transactional relationships, mental health and the search for dignity, belonging and self-worth in contemporary South Africa.

The writer of the play Thato Moeng said: “SENSE was born out of a desire to give voice to experiences that are often hidden behind silence, shame and social expectation. Through this work, I hope to encourage audiences to question how we define womanhood, relationships and self-worth, and to remind us that healing begins when we choose empathy over judgement.”

Performer Lebone Lephoko added: “As a performer, SENSE has reminded me that behind every label, every assumption and every act of betrayal are human beings searching for love, dignity and belonging. I hope audiences see parts of themselves in these characters and leave with greater empathy for others and for themselves.”

You can buy tickets on www.webtickets.co.za for R100. Bulk tickets can be purchased at The Market Theatre box office: 4 tickets at R350 and 8 tickets at R670.