A new production inspired by the love letters of Ingrid Jonker and André P. Brink

Scenario Productions and Die Centurion Teater Present

INGRID – ‘N VLAM IN DIE SNEEU

(Ingrid – A flame in the Snow)

For the first time on stage, the intimate and impassioned love letters between Ingrid Jonker and André P. Brink come to life in Ingrid: n Vlam in die Sneeu. This evocative theatre production, presented by Scenario Productions and Die Centurion Teater, is a deeply moving exploration of Jonker’s world—her poetry, her passion, and the relentless search for freedom that defined her existence.

The production is inspired by Vlam in die Sneeu: Die liefdesbriewe tussen Jonker en Brink, the published collection of letters that forms the foundation of this poignant love story. Through their artistry, the creative team has transformed these deeply personal writings into a breathtaking stage experience—one that brings Jonker’s voice, passion, and poetry to life once more.

Lizelle Pike takes on the deeply moving role of Ingrid Jonker, embodying the poet’s passion, struggles, and indomitable spirit. Through her performance, audiences will experience Jonker not only as a literary icon but as a woman of raw emotion, fierce love, and unrelenting creativity.

The production is guided by the directorial vision of Nadia Beukes, Tiaan Kirsten-Lubbe, and Lian Sachse, whose collaborative approach ensures a dynamic and immersive theatrical experience. Their direction balances the lyrical beauty of Jonker’s words with the intensity of her personal journey, creating a production that is both visually and emotionally compelling.

Says Director Nadia Beukes who will be making her directorial debut, I am especially excited to be involved in the development of the production from a creative point of view and for the opportunity to learn, grow and be involved in a different capacity. My hope for this production is that it will become what it should be to honor two people’s story and thereby inspire everyone who experiences the production.”

The script and new musical settings are crafted by award-winning poet and writer Jak J Brits, who breathes fresh life into Jonker’s poetry, weaving her words into a powerful narrative enriched by original compositions. These new interpretations bring an additional layer of depth to Jonker’s work, making her poetry resonate with contemporary audiences. Om die storie van n legende te vertel, haar woorde, haar poësie verwerk en getoonset, is n groot voorreg. Mag dit ook dien as knie-buiging om haar stem nuwe asem gee. says Jak J Brits

At the heart of the production’s musical landscape is Chanie Jonker, who serves as musical director and pianist. Interwoven with original new music inspired by Jonker’s celebrated poetry collection, Rook en Oker, this production offers audiences a fresh perspective on one of South Africa’s most iconic literary voices. Each song becomes a breath of her spirit, carrying the echoes of her love, her struggles, and the burning intensity with which she embraced life.

Through a poetic and musical journey, Ingrid: n Vlam in die Sneeu reveals Jonker not just as a literary icon, but as a woman—complex, passionate, and deeply human. As her love affair with Brink unfolds through their letters—brimming with desire, doubt, and longing—we also witness her personal battles, including the haunting shadow of depression that shaped both her life and her art.

This is not a conventional biographical narrative. Instead, the production reimagines Jonker’s story through her own words, her poetry, and her emotions—sometimes delicate and whispering, sometimes unflinchingly raw, sometimes ablaze with uncontainable fire. Her spirit is heard again through the fusion of music, letters, and verse, ensuring that her words remain as powerful and relevant as ever.

Ingrid: n Vlam in die Sneeu is a tribute to a woman whose poetry gave solace to the world, even as she wrestled with her own sorrow. It is a reminder that love and words can endure, even in the coldest landscapes.

Dates and Runs:

9 – 17 April: Debuut
Venue: Die Centurion Teater, Gauteng
Kaartjies by: https://qkt.io/IngridVlamSneeuCT25 / www.centurionteater.co.za

28 Mei – 1 Junie: Wes-Kaap Toer

29 Mei 2025: Die Boer Teater en Restaurant, Durbanville
Kaartjies: www.dieboer.com

30 Mei 2025: Die Koelkamers Teater, Paternoster

Kaartjies: www.diekoelkamers.co.za

31 Mei 2025: The Drama Factory, Strand
Kaartjies: www.dramafactory.co.za

1 June 2025: Drostdy Boutique Teate, Stellenbosch
Kaartjies: www.drostdyteater.co.za

For more information visit www.centurionteater.co.za

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