Eager Artist of Durban, South Africa will close NMU’s 2nd annual UNITED Conference at 4 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 25 in the Great Lakes Rooms of the University Center. The performance, entitled “Puzzle”, a thought-provoking drama about the social life of the South African majority after they gained their freedom in democratic elections in 1994 . A reception will follow.

The performance is an account of one man’s demise in the face of social pressure and the efforts of his family to cope with their troubles.  The play shows both the struggles and the quiet triumphs of his spouse and children in the face of adversity. 

“Puzzle” is a vivid portrait of life in South Africa, and the grim realities of poverty, Aids, violence and crime.  It is also a story that sings of hope and dreams of the revival of the “ubuntu” spirit.  Ubuntu is a South African word that means, “I am because we are.”

The Puzzle was performed at UNESCO’s Earth Festival in Vancouver, Canada in 2006. It left audiences speechless and in tears.

A reception will follow the UNITED performance.