The theatre also believes that it is also most fitting to pay tribute to Fugard who was most recently honoured at the Tony Award ceremony in the United States for his enormous contribution to international theatre.

The new ‘Boesman and Lena’ will run from 29 May to 30 June. It will be directed by acclaimed, award-winning director, writer and actor James Ngcobo and will star Quanita Adams and Elton Landrew in the title roles and Charly Azade as Outa. The production will be designed by Nadya Cohen with costumes by Thando Lobese.

‘Boesman and Lena’ is a small-cast play, set in the Swartkops mudflats just outside Port Elizabeth. In essence it deals with two lonely weather-beaten squatters trapped in a struggle for freedom and dignity. They are on a journey with all their worldly possessions after their shack was bulldozed. The play shows the effect of apartheid on individuals and concerns a coloured man and woman walking from one shanty town to another.

The play has been translated into numerous languages and has been presented worldwide. It explores the complex mosaic of human emotions, racial politics and universal questions of existence.

“I am thrilled to be producing this South African classic, which first premiered in Grahamstown in 1969 starring Athol Fugard and Yvonne Bryceland,” says producer Daphne Kuhn.

Bookings are now open for this legendary South African play, which is now a matric setwork. Tickets are available at R130 and R80 for students and pensioners. There are special group bookings discounts for schools (R60) and fund raisers and dinner show packages can be arranged. In addition, on Tuesdays nights, tickets are two for the price of one. Performances will take place from Tuesday to Friday at 20:15 and Saturdays at 18:00 and 20:30.

The production opens with a week of previews from 29 May and officially on Tuesday, 5 June. Bookings can be made by calling the theatre on 011 883 8606 or Strictly Tickets on tel 082 553 5903 or book online at www.ticket.co.za or www.theatreonthesquare.co.za.