PRESS: Sue Diepeveen in MS.B-HAVED at Theatre Arts this February

Christine Skinner

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Following her previous hit, the hilarious, poignant one-woman show So You Want to Be a Trophy Wife, Sue Diepeveen presents another incisive solo act comedy, MS.B-HAVED, directed by Natasha Sutherland.

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MS.B-HAVED sees beloved teacher Sally Burkett in disgrace! After thirty years of teaching, she finds her reputation in tatters as she is suspended from Littleman Junior Preparatory School for a misdemeanour that could well get her fired. The infamous school drop off zone has become a hotbed of gossip; the guessing game surrounding her scandal is jamming all the parent group apps. Come laugh along with firecracker Sally as she ponders her fate, whilst unpacking what brought her to her current hell of Zoom teaching online! 

MS.B-HAVED explores the extremes expected from educators, parents and learners in an ever-shifting world and the reaches of ‘cancel culture’ that have become the norm. Whilst Diepeveen’s new play tickles one’s funny bone, it also explores the trepidation, nostalgia  and tenacity that presents itself when inevitable change challenges our identity and worth.  We meet various new-age parents who add colour to this landscape as Diepeveen explores the nuances of the important relationship between parent and teacher. The audience is kept guessing as potential disastrous scenarios are brought to life, all of which can lead to suspension of a teacher. The suspense is heightened by the increasing pressure through social media for the truth to be exposed.  In a ‘woke’ world can Sally navigate her way through to retirement or will the Board axe her?

“I loved creating this new character and what a treat to have the opportunity to work with the insanely talented Natasha Sutherland to bring her to life,” says Diepeveen. “I have been fascinated by how more mature teachers have had to learn to adapt with changing times and to stay abreast of trends.  This was never more apparent than during COVID where our teachers showed their true mettle.  Society owes a great deal to educators who are on the coal face every day.”

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The play explores the unrealistic expectations that educators and parents face on a daily basis as we delve into the busy lives that are so much a part of current norms.  Diepeveen spent much time researching the scenarios, which while laughable, are entirely true. 

Director Natahsa Sutherland helped craft the script adding an extra shared layer to the narrative in her added role as Dramaturg.  Teachers and parents have the toughest job in society and the play looks at how the adults in the mix need to stay one step ahead and with things like AI ,this is almost an impossible task.  The irony of course, is that children are taught by everyone and everything and shaping them into well rounded humans is a full time job.

“I loved creating this new character and what a treat to have the opportunity to work with the insanely talented Natasha Sutherland to bring her to life,” says Diepeveen. 

“The ‘much loved’  teacher Ms Burkett has rocked her community to the core, and now she sits in limbo awaiting her fate from the school board.  For thirty years she has worked hard to navigate changing policies amongst ‘hoofmeisie’ moms, new age parents, and tik tok caregivers. What could she possibly have done to send her into this purgatory?”

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From Reviewers:

‘Watching Sue Diepeveen perform in her darkly funny play, MS.B-HAVED, reminded me of the tag line/catch phrase of the late, great, comic, Joan Rivers…Terrific physical comedy, timing, under the careful direction of Natasha Sutherland (also the story editor). I love the simmering energy… Diepeveen’s energy ignites the space in her lair in the home office. Her characterisation is terrific as she channels a range of characters. …The script uses elements of stand-up comedy and puts us at ease so we can as I say, laugh through panic, with MS.B-HAVED …’ - Robyn Cohen – The Cape Robyn

‘…The piece is at its best when Diepeveen portrays the interactions between Ms B and her students or between Ms B and the parents (who are far more demanding than any of the learners – this too echoes my own mother’s experience!). My personal favourite vignette are the interactions between Ms B and Mrs Wellman, a (think ‘woo-woo’, ‘namaste’) hippy of a mother and between Ms B and Mrs Labuschagne, a controlling, helicopter parent who becomes Ms B’s nemesis… MS.B-HAVED reminds us that it is okay to make mistakes and that chasing perfection is a fool’s errand – even when you’ve been educating future generations for thirty years!’ – Jaimie Uranovsky – Broadway World

‘… a must-see, offering a delightful mix of humour, reflection, and inspiration. It's a testament to the power of theatre to address real-world issues while entertaining and enlightening audiences.’ – Happening News

Audience Feedback:

‘What a fantastic show and a must see for anyone with children or grandchildren entering the schooling system. Lots of food for thought and the acting is excellent.’ – Anne

‘Poignant, witty, entertaining, presented with passion. highly recommended.’ – Barry

‘A well-researched and heart rendering script reflecting reality very accurately. Incredibly true performance by the clearly talented actress did the special script justice. One cannot imagine the hours, research, special thoughts (blood sweat and tears) that went into this exceptional performance and I rate myself lucky to have seen it.’ – Estelle

MS.B-HAVED is written and performed by Sue Diepeveen, with Natasha Sutherland as director and story editor. Lighting Design is by Wicus Louw. It will be performed from 11 – 15 February at Theatre Arts, Observatory.

General Admission: R180

Concession: R160

Block Booking: R150 for groups of 4 or more

Bookings can be made HERE

Age restriction 12+