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Destiny (MTC) Review: Loyalty and Revolution in Apartheid South Africa
Melbourne Theatre Company’s world premiere of Destiny is a powerful and intimate drama set against the turbulent backdrop of South Africa in January 1976. Written by and starring award-winning South African-born playwright Kirsty Marillier, and directed by Zindzi Okenyo (Is God Is), the production skilfully balances personal and political turmoil, capturing a generation on the edge of change during apartheid.
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At the heart of the story is Della (Marillier), a young woman striving to hold her fractured family together: keeping her younger brother Rocky (Gaz Dutlow) out of trouble and her father (Patrick Williams) in check. When her former lover Ezra (Barry Conrad) returns with radical ideas, Della is forced to confront both personal and political upheaval.
Marillier’s script is thoughtful, humorous, and emotionally grounded, exploring themes of fragility, resistance, and love. The ensemble cast, including Clare Chihambakwe (Is God Is) and John Shearman (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child), deliver strong, layered performances, while Okenyo’s direction brings precision and depth to the 1 hour 40-minute production.
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I found Destiny both compelling and deeply moving. It offers a powerful, predominantly Coloured perspective on South African apartheid through a richly layered script, brought to life with precision and heart by the entire cast. The play captures the human story of life under apartheid — love, fear, resistance, and vulnerability — without ever losing its emotional honesty. One moment you are laughing out loud, the next you are gripped by empathy, anticipation, or even discomfort. It’s an engaging and moving production that leaves a lasting impression, and I would see it again in a heartbeat.
Destiny
Date: 18 August – 13 September 2025
Location: Southbank Theatre, The Sumner
Please note: Destiny contains coarse language, mature themes, sensitive racial commentary, and depictions of violence. Recommended for 14+.
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