The Zoo Story
drama
Written by Edward ALBEE | Directed by Chris WEARE | Performed by Michael MACKENZIE & Francois IMMELMAN
16+ Violence
Mpact Productions proudly presents The Zoo Story, a powerful and provocative play written by renowned American playwright Edward Albee. This intense, thought-provoking drama delves deep into themes of isolation, communication, and the complexities of human interaction.
Set in New York City’s Central Park, the story unfolds as two strangers, Peter and Jerry, engage in a seemingly innocent conversation that quickly spirals into something significantly more complex.
Albee's exploration of societal disconnect and the human condition is as relevant today as it was when the play first debuted in 1958.
This production stars the talented Michael MacKenzie as Jerry and Francois Immelman as Peter.
With gripping performances and a deeply emotional narrative, The Zoo Story is a theatrical experience that will leave you contemplating long after the lights cut to black.
ARTIST BIOS
Francois Immelman started performing at the age of 8 years old, taking part in the Tygerberg International Eistedfod numerous times, winning for 3 years in his age group. He received a degree of Live Performance, (Screen Acting and Stage Acting) from AFDA, winning the AFDA award for best stage actor with his performance of 'Dodge' from Sam Shepard's play Buried Child. Since then, Francois has had many film and TV experiences under his belt, including the short film Some Mothers' Sons (now on Showmax), which won him and his co-star the Dikalo Award for Best Actor at The Pan-African Film Festival in Cannes. Other notable works include Angeliena (Netflix) and recently, Die Kwiksilwers (Kyknet). Francois also finished a musical review at the Tyger Valley Barnyard named The Bar of Memories and Dreams, where he played Sam, the Barman.
Born in San Diego, California Michael MacKenzie moved to South Africa in 1998 and found his passion for performance at just 15. With a BA in Live Performance from AFDA (Cape Town) and the AFDA award for Best Screen Actor, he's since built an impressive career, including roles in TROY: Fall of a City (Netflix), The Mauritanian alongside Jodie Foster and Shailene Woodley, and The Forgiven with Forest Whitaker. Michael's love for the stage is unwavering. Catch him performing The Zoo Story by Edward Albee in 2025, and stay tuned as he produces VENUS & FUR, the electric two-hander as well as STANDER, the acclaimed Afrikaans one-man show, in 2025 & 2026. Exciting things ahead!