I Want to Call You Daddy: A Powerful One-Woman Show

The upcoming theatrical performance, “I Want to Call You Daddy,” is set to captivate audiences at Artscape in Cape Town on August 6, 2025, at 19:00. This compelling one-woman show by Marcé Underwood masterfully weaves together poetry, storytelling, music, and movement to explore the intimate and often complex experience of single motherhood in post-apartheid South Africa. Highlighting the raw moments of a mother’s journey—beginning with childbirth and transitioning through pivotal life events such as a child’s first day of school—the performance prompts reflection on the painful realities of parental absence. With a ticket price of only R100, this 90-minute show is accessible not only in its themes but also in its affordability, making it an inviting experience for all ages.

Central to this performance is the discussion of historical trauma and societal stereotypes, particularly focusing on the often-overlooked absence of white fathers and its implications on familial structures. Underwood’s narrative challenges audiences to confront uncomfortable truths about abandonment and resilience, moving beyond simplistic portrayals of life in Cape Flats or notions of privilege. Instead, it highlights the strength of a mother’s love and the heartfelt pleas of a child, illustrating how art becomes a form of survival in harsh realities. This innovative and genre-defying piece promises to linger in the hearts and minds of its viewers long after the show concludes, making it a must-see event this August.

Summary

The event titled “I Want to Call You Daddy” is a profound one-woman performance by Marcé Underwood, scheduled for August 6, 2025, at 19:00 at Artscape in Cape Town, with tickets priced at R100. This theatrical piece intertwines poetry, storytelling, song, and movement to explore the complexities of single motherhood in post-apartheid South Africa, commencing from childbirth and navigating through significant life events, including a child’s first day of school and the challenges of maintenance court. By addressing the often-overlooked theme of white paternal absence, the play calls into question historical trauma and its role in cycles of abandonment, ultimately highlighting resilience and the transformative power of a mother’s love. With a runtime of 90 minutes, this genre-defying performance aims to present a nuanced narrative that goes beyond stereotypes, welcoming audiences of all ages. Additional performances are scheduled for August 7 and 8, and tickets can be purchased online or at various Pick n Pay locations in South Africa.