The Impact Community Theatre Company at the Savoy Theatre continues its dynamic 2025 season with an exciting new addition to its ever-diversifying lineup: the return of PEAAT (Performing Arts Education and Theatre) with their side-splitting Afrikaans comedy, Ma skryf Matriek.
Written by Louis de Villiers and directed by the renowned local theatre veteran Marlene Pieterse, Ma skryf Matriek is a heartwarming, witty exploration of ambition, self-worth, and second chances. The production stars the highly acclaimed South African actor Ruan Wessels as Neelsie Taljaart, and features a strong supporting cast including Emercia de Lange as the determined Bella Taljaart, Cobus Lombard as her unsuspecting husband Sias, and Daneel Strydom as the charming tutor, Doctor Smal. Melandie Koekemoer portrays Bella’s daughter Annatjie, Riaan Erasmus plays Johan, and Mariné Botha brings the nosy neighbour Lily to life.
Performances will run from 15 to 19 July at 19:30 nightly, with a matinee performance at 15:00 on 19 July. Tickets are available via Quicket.
The play follows Bella Taljaart, a woman tired of being underestimated—especially by her husband. She secretly sets out to earn her matric qualification, enlisting the help of the dashing Doctor Smal. As her academic journey unfolds, so do complications at home, with a curious neighbour, a full household, and emotional challenges all adding to the comedic tension.
This production marks PEAAT’s return to the Savoy stage after more than two decades—their last appearance being in 2002—and reintroduces their unique brand of Afrikaans comedic storytelling to local audiences.
Impact Community Theatre President Rose Cowpar commented: “It’s thrilling to see Savoy evolving—adding straight play comedy to our usual musical and revue fare—and to have PEAAT return after two decades speaks to the trust in our venue and team.” As the Savoy Theatre continues to expand its reputation as a hub for diverse live performance genres—from musicals and dance festivals to stand-up comedy and opera-style revues—productions like Ma skryf Matriek ensure that every audience finds something to love.
