4:59
4:59 is a South African play co-authored by Jason Wheeler, Kele Legoko, and MoMo Matsunyane.
Contents
The original text
The title refers to the final minute of the night right before dawn—a symbolic time where boundaries blur, secrets emerge, and fears are faced. Set in a rundown train station, the story follows two strangers who meet and forge an unlikely bond. Through a series of surreal dream sequences and tragicomic conversations, they gradually confront their hidden pasts to find healing and acceptance.[1]
Translations and adaptations
Performance history in South Africa
2022-2024: Directed by MoMo Matsunyane and starring Kele Legoko and Jason Wheeler, with stage management by Olebogeng Mosime, the play was staged at a variety of venues, including the National Arts Festival, WITS Theatre, RedFest Arts Festival and the AFDA Red Roof Theatre.
Sources
Go to ESAT Bibliography
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that premiered at the National Arts Festival in Makhanda. Co-written by Jason Wheeler, Kele Legoko, and MoMo Matsunyane (who also directed), the production stars Legoko and Wheeler.
The Concept
The title refers to the final minute of the night right before dawn—a symbolic time where boundaries blur, secrets emerge, and fears are faced. Set in a rundown train station, the story follows two strangers who meet and forge an unlikely bond. Through a series of surreal dream sequences and tragicomic conversations, they gradually confront their hidden pasts to find healing and acceptance.
