The Unlikely Secret Agent at Marylebone Theatre

Coming to the Marylebone Theatre for four days only, The Unlikely Secret Agent is a witty and intense story of having the courage to stand up to racial prejudice during the apartheid of South Africa. Based on the book by Ronnie Kasrils (Wessel Pretorius), the production follows his real-life wife, Eleanor Kasrils (Erika Breytenbach-Marais), and her rise through the ranks as an undercover agent for the African National Congress and her journey to escape the South African Security Police.

Directed by Paul Du Toit, The Unlikely Secret Agent is a fast-paced retelling of the young couple’s story. Du Toit uses flashbacks and a first-person narrative voice for the story of Eleanor. Breytenbach-Marais portrays a middle-class 1960s wife, and her comedic timing in scenes with Pretorius is unmatched. The two actors also have undeniable chemistry, which is essential in Eleanor’s story because Ronnie is the reason she had access to underground activism in the first place.

No fancy techniques exist in this production, which is appreciated considering the multitude of themes it explores. The performances from the ensemble cast are also a highlight, with them playing so many different characters you won’t know where to look. Their best moments come during the interrogation scenes as security officers and in the mental hospital where Eleanor is detained, taking on the role of rowdy female patients. In particular, De Klerk Oelofse stands out amongst the ensemble as one of the creepy and violent officers who tries to get Eleanor to admit to her betrayal of the state.

Even the set, designed by Salene Bekker and du Toit, is minimal, allowing the intensity of each scene to be the focal point where the audience can bite their nails in anticipation of Eleanor getting caught for her “crimes”. The set consists of four wooden chairs, a table and a filing cabinet, all of which have significance in Eleanor’s story: the filing cabinet is the bookshelf where she stores contraband books and messages, and the chairs are where her accusers sit throughout the play. The chairs in the interrogation scene allow the police officers to be under a spotlight when they address her, a directional choice that is effective but does make you feel a little bit like you’re in a police drama.

The Unlikely Secret Agent is a tale of strength, perseverance and underground activism brought to life by an unlikely candidate. If you have any connections or historical interest with Apartheid in South Africa, this is a must-see production. Or simply watch it to witness the incredible love story and eventual reunion between Eleanor and Ronnie, one of the best scenes of the entire show.

Sophie Humphrey
Photo: Jeremeo Le Cordeur

The Unlikely Secret Agent is at Marylebone Theatre from 28^th August until 1^st September 2024. For further information or to book visit the theatre’s website here.