Award-winning performer Camilla Waldman recently sat down with the SA Jewish Report to discuss her role in the play Ladies of Lavare, in which she plays the elderly sister, Vera. Waldman expressed her appreciation for the script from the moment she first encountered it during the audition process. She praised the magical realism created by playwright Tammany Barton, which explores the journey of finding connections, remembering, and repurposing.
According to Waldman, the play is an important work that people need to see, as it highlights the significance of community, forgiveness, and working through challenges with one another. The director of Ladies of Lavare, Juliette Jenner, described the story's significance as a "golden thread" that weaves together the lives of the two sisters. Waldman believes that the play's themes of connection, forgiveness, and community are essential for audiences to experience.
Waldman also shared her thoughts on ageing, stating that people have value at each stage of their lives, whether they are young, growing, or elderly. She reflected on her own experiences with ageing, citing Dr. Maya Angelou's definition of success as "liking yourself, liking what you do, and how you do it." Waldman's 50s have been a time of brave changes, and she has come to realize that freedom and responsibility are interdependent.
Through her experience working on Ladies of Lavare, Waldman has learned that it is possible to still be playful and creative even as one ages. She has also come to appreciate the importance of sibling relationships, particularly after losing her mother six years ago. Waldman's brother, two years younger than herself, has become a cherished and intentional part of her life.
Waldman praised the supportive and creative environment created by playwright Tammany Barton and her fellow actor, Shaeleen Tobin. She enjoyed working alongside Tobin, who brought a generous and heartfelt approach to the role. Waldman believes that the play will appeal to audiences of all ages, as it explores universal themes of being human and part of a family.
In terms of resonance with the Jewish community, Waldman believes that Ladies of Lavare serves as a reminder of the significance our elders bring to our daily lives. She noted that the play encourages audiences to pause, appreciate the world around them, and check in with those who may move a little slower. Waldman sees the play as a rally call to remember the importance of community in Jewish life.
Ladies of Lavare will be on stage at the Theatre on the Square in Johannesburg from October 1 to 17. Waldman invites audiences to experience the play, which she believes will bring laughter, recognition, and a deeper appreciation for the human experience. The play's themes of ageing, family, and community are sure to resonate with audiences of all ages.
Key points
- The play Ladies of Lavare explores themes of ageing, family, and community.
- Camilla Waldman plays the elderly sister, Vera, in the play.
- The play will be on stage at the Theatre on the Square in Johannesburg from October 1 to 17.
