Historic novel ‘Dancing the Death Drill’ comes to life at Joburg Theatre

702’s Bongani Bingwa speaks with theatre performer, Clint Brink.

Listen below:

Fred Khumalo’s award-winning novel ‘Dancing the Death Drill’ will come alive on the Joburg Theatre stage.

Set in 1958 Paris, this is a story about a South African soldier, Pitso Motaung (played by Brink), who is a survivor of the SS Mendi disaster, a ship that tragically sank during World War I.

We follow Pitso’s journey through war, love, and loss... exploring the lasting impacts of historical injustices.

“[Motaung] is essentially a vehicle for everything that surrounded the sinking of the SS Mendi. We journey with these soldiers who were promised a better life after the war.” 

– Clint Brink, performer

“We are able to now honour these heroes who never really got honoured the way that they should have been.”

– Clint Brink, performer

‘Dancing the Death Drill’ is on at the Joburg Theatre until 28 September 2025. 

Tickets are available on Webtickets here.

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the discussion.