In a celebration of the South Sudanese community’s resilience and the transformative power of imagination, Sydney-based theatre company Belvoir proudly presents Lose to Win, an extraordinary modern Australian story.
From April 25 to May 19, 2024, Belvoir is hosting The National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) alumnus Mandela Mathia’s remarkable autobiographical solo show.
Through a dynamic blend of spoken word, song, and comedy, Mathia invites theatregoers to embark on an emotional journey from war-torn South Sudan to the vibrant stages of Belvoir Street.
Mathia’s own odyssey, fleeing conflict as a child and navigating through hardship to find his place in the world, is brought to life with profound authenticity in this performance.
“This show is about events of my life from birth all the way to Australia, where I explore the theme of self-acceptance, perseverance, and hopes,” Mathia said. “This show kind of helps give young people, everyone, the hope to reinvent themselves and feel like there is light at the end of the tunnel.”
For Belvoir Artistic Director Eamon Flack, Mathia’s presence on stage is nothing short of extraordinary.
“Few actors bring Mandela’s warmth, depth, and breadth to the Belvoir stage,” Flack said.
Under the skilled direction of Jessica Arthur, known for her work on The Wolves, Lose to Win promises an intimate, generous, and profoundly inspiring evening of storytelling.
Arthur’s guidance ensures that Mathia’s narrative resonates deeply, offering audiences a chance to reflect on their own journeys and emerge with a renewed sense of hope.
Lose to Win is more than just a play—it’s a testament to the human spirit’s resilience and the transformative power of storytelling. As Mathia’s story unfolds on stage, it serves as a reminder of the strength found in embracing one’s identity and overcoming adversity.
