REMO - a true story about the day I died, told by Rameez Cassiem
intimate storytelling
Written by Rameez CASSIEM with contributions from Daniel Mpilo May RICHARDS and Kim Blanché ADONIS | Directed by Kim Blanché ADONIS | Performed by Rameez CASSIEM | Produced by Daniel Mpilo May RICHARDS
16+ Mild Language, Triggering Content
In REMO, Rameez Cassiem takes the audience on a deeply personal journey of survival, adaptation, and the indomitable will to live. The story begins with an unimaginable tragedy: Rameez aka Remo, a father, husband, and once vibrant breakdancer, was involved in a horrific car accident that left him in a coma for a month. Doctors prepared to turn off his life support, but Rameez woke up – and with it, he brought a message. "What is that message?" he asks. “Well, you’ll have to come see my show.”
But the story doesn't end there. After surviving the accident, Rameez was diagnosed with multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN), a rare and incurable nerve disease that causes progressive muscle weakness. In the face of this daunting diagnosis, Rameez's determination and resilience shine through as he continues to face each day with courage, humor, and an unwavering hope for the future.
REMO was performed at the Baxter Masambe Theatre in February 2025 to critical acclaim.
“It is brave, raw and immediate theatrical testimony. Beautiful theatre.”
“... intensely powerful piece ..." - Robyn Cohen, The Cape Robyn.
Rameez continues to inspire people with his story by performing at schools and for organisations.
RAMEEZ CASSIEM
Rameez Cassiem is a motivational speaker, former radio presenter, producer, comedian, father, and husband who has turned his life's most painful challenges into a platform for inspiring others. Diagnosed with multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN) with conduction blocks, Rameez’s story is one of survival, strength, and the power of the human spirit. He has embraced his condition with grace, transforming his journey into an empowering story that has already touched the hearts of many.
Directors note by Kim Blanché Adonis
REMO has changed me. I am a storyteller by nature and REMO is my debut as a director. It has been an incredibly memorable, challenging and perspective shifting experience.
This show is based on a true story, Rameez’s life story so I have had to be incredibly sensitive around the subject matter. Rameez has inspired me to appreciate the things we all take for granted. The show touches on subjects like substance abuse, spirituality, mortality, loss of mobility and love. These universal themes are themes that I believe we are all perplexed by at some stage in life.
I’ve made a special effort to include everyday activities in the show, highlighting how Rameez lives his life. I have structured this show so that anyone above the age of 16 can be an audience member.
This one hander is stylistically in the realm realism but includes elements of hip-hop theatre such as rapping, beatboxing, tagging and poetry/flowetry, creating a sonically active environment. Rameez’s comedic abilities naturally presents itself in the script and is utilized as comic relief through more painful realities of his life.
I hope the audience reflects on their own lives and the lives of differently abled persons. I want each audience member to see Rameez’s bravery, courage, talent and humour.
A message from the producer Daniel Mpilo May Richards
"We all have a bit of REMO in us."
Rameez and I have been on an incredible journey together. From the moment he first shared his story with me, I’ve been compelled to share it with anyone willing to listen. His experiences offer powerful lessons, and I am constantly in awe of how he navigates the world with such strength and determination. To me, Rameez embodies resilience. Producing this show from London is an absolute privilege, and I only wish I could be there in person to witness him live out his dream on stage.
Having Kim on board as director fills me with immense joy and confidence. I had the pleasure of directing her in one of Mike Van Graan’s multi-sketch productions (He Had It Coming), and she radiates creativity. The dynamic between Kim and Rameez is truly special—they both have so much to learn from and offer each other. It’s a perfect match.
I have no doubt that audiences will be moved by what Rameez and Kim bring to the stage. If you have any feedback or would like Rameez to speak at an event, function, or school, please feel free to reach out to me via email or Instagram.
Email: mpilomay2@gmail.com | Instagram: @mpilo_may