Tell us about your character in a nutshell.
I’m playing the character of Racine and she is driven by passion, protection and family. As the older of her twin Anaia and due to their life circumstances, Racine has played the role of protector and decision-maker. It is really prominent and obvious that they care for one another. However, Racine being the decision-maker causes friction and tension between them. Often Racine makes a decision before Anaia has the time to think and potentially dissuade her.
Masego Pitso as Racine and Henrietta Enyonam Amevor as Anaia in Is God Is. Photo: Pia Johnson
What resonates most for you within the show?
A lot of the time the roles that we are able to play are often to do with our Blackness. But Blackness is so unique and so nuanced. I love that with this play we get to do everything and not make it about race. We explore a whole range of emotions – we take you places and we go places. It’s boundless and relentless. It’s just incredible to be able to step into characters that are so full, like we are, we are full human beings with so much range.
What’s unique about this production?
I think what’s so incredible about the show being programmed is the fact that it’s programmed because it’s a phenomenal piece of writing. Yes, it’s Black. But it’s good. To know you’re part of a piece that was chosen because it is good and not for a token or quota is incredible. These stories have existed and have always been around. It’s great they’re getting their time and recognition for being GOOD. We are multifaceted people and our stories need to be told. Everybody can resonate with these incredible stories. I'm excited for people to experience this.
Anger and rage are explored in the character of Racine. Has playing her changed the way you think about these emotions?
It has expanded my thoughts around it and deepened my appreciation of it. Rage and anger are often emotions we are taught or made to feel as though they have no place in our lives. This role has not only confirmed but also highlighted the importance of rage and anger. We should feel angered by certain things and we should have methods of expressing it, it’s healthy. However, I will add that the play shows the complexity of the human experience, of the binary between right and wrong in the way we make decisions. It calls us to question what place and space certain emotions have within us.
Henrietta Enyonam Amevor, Kevin Copeland and Masego Pitso in Is God Is. Photo: Pia Johnson
What is a big idea in this play, in relation to your character?
Dedication to the damn cause. At the top of the play we are given a glimpse into the lengths Racine has gone to to protect. Through Racine we are able to see the danger, but also the beauty of rage, especially in the hands of a young girl that has had to endure hardship for so long. The opportunity to take power and hone in on the bubbling rage within her … it truly plays out in the most magnificent, liberating way.
Published on 29 June 2023
