Explore the comedic insights of Ms B-Haved, a one-woman show at Theatre Arts

Theatre Arts launches its latest production, Ms B-Haved, opening tonight, Wednesday, February 11, at the Theatre Arts venue in Observatory.

Ms B-Haved is a one-woman comedy starring Sue Diepeveen of Strand and directed by South African acting legend Natasha Sutherland from Rondebosch, who makes her directorial debut with the production.

Ms Diepeveen also wrote this production.

The play follows the story of Sally Burkett, a teacher whose career is thrown into turmoil. After 30 years in the classroom, Ms Burkett’s reputation is left in tatters when she is suspended from Littleman Junior Preparatory School for a misdemeanour that could ultimately cost her her job.

Through humour and sharp observation, Ms B-Haved explores the intense expectations placed on educators, parents, and learners in a constantly changing world.

Ms Diepeveen said she has long been fascinated by how experienced teachers are required to adapt to shifting trends and expectations, a reality that became especially evident during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“The play draws from real experiences and extensive research, offering laugh-out-loud moments that are as relatable as they are truthful,” she said.

Ms Diepeveen is no stranger to solo performances, having previously appeared in the one-woman show So You Want to Be a Trophy Wife.

Ms Sutherland, known for her roles in television series such as Egoli, Scandal, and Lioness, said she is relishing the opportunity to direct a one-woman production. She credited her parents, who are both multifaceted storytellers in the industry as educators, dancers, choreographers, and directors, for inspiring her love of storytelling.

“Perhaps my adoration for storytelling as a whole made it a natural curiosity to explore not just the acting side of it, but also the behind-the-scenes aspects,” she said.

Ms B-Haved runs at Theatre Arts, Methodist Church Hall, corner of Milton Road and Wesley Street, Observatory, with evening performances at 8pm from Wednesday, February 11, to Saturday, February 14. A matinee performance will be staged on Sunday, February 15, at 4pm.

Tickets cost R180, with block bookings available at R150 per person for groups of four or more. Bookings can be made online via Theatre Arts.