Friday, May 10, 2019, 7:00 pm
Portland Media Center, 516 Congress Street, Portland
Join the Maine Film Association, the Portland Media Center, MFA Members, and the general public for a screening of “In Stitches,” a film by Maine filmmakers Hannah Rafkin and Meg Robbins. The screening will be followed by a talk and Q&A with the filmmakers!
Comedy is a change-maker, a conversation-starter, a healing tool. It cuts through the bullshit. The comedy scene is especially powerful in South Africa, a nation still grappling with the history of apartheid rule and the rocky transition into democracy. Recently, vernacular comedy—performed in a variety of indigenous languages—has been revolutionizing stand-up, bringing uniquely South African stories to long-ignored audiences.
In Stitches follows three big players of the Johannesburg vernac scene: Noko Moswete, a taboo-busting comedian making strides for women in stand-up, Zicco Sithole, the host of a weekly open-mic night in the township of Soweto, and Luphelo Kodwa, a dedicated up-and-comer who dropped everything to pursue his craft.
The film traces their successes and setbacks as they take to the stage in their mother tongues—languages that have long taken a backseat in South Africa. Despite media disinterest, family conflicts, sexism, and pressures to succeed in the City of Gold, these artists continue to bring down the house night after night. They are unapologetically sharing their stories with hungry audiences—and decolonizing comedy in the process.
These are the voices of South Africa. But will the nation listen up?
Doors open at 6:30pm. Suggested Donation: $5.
Presented by the Portland Media Center and the Maine Film Association.
