Taking its title from the global hit by Miley Cyrus, I Can Buy Myself Flowers is a sharp and entertaining one-woman comedy-drama about Natalie Jackson, a fifty-something estate agent who reflects on the rollercoaster of relationships, raising children, career ambitions, and the value of women’s friendships.
Natalie, portrayed by Erika Breytenbach, embodies the contradictions of her generation: old enough for multiple marriages, young enough to be unburdened by apartheid’s legacy, and woman enough to face menopause with humor and grit. Alongside five close friends—collectively dubbing themselves the “Six-in-the-City” WhatsApp group—she navigates the triumphs and insecurities that come with professional and personal life. Years of therapy, the inspiration of female colleagues, and the challenges of patriarchal family structures shape her journey toward living unapologetically on her own terms.
The play is penned by acclaimed writer Mike van Graan, whose many honors include the Independent Theatre Award for My Fellow South Africans, and directed by Toni Morkel. Co-produced by MVG Productions and Unlikely Productions, the 65-minute show carries a PG16 age restriction and has been praised for its wit and relatability since premiering at Cape Town’s Drama Factory earlier this year.
Designed as a highly portable production, I Can Buy Myself Flowers has been staged at theatres, festivals, and unconventional spaces alike. After successful runs in Durban, the Garden Route, and at the National Arts Festival in Makhanda, it now makes its way to the Isithatha Theatre in Walmer on September 8 and 9 at 7.30pm.
Tickets can be booked at www.isithatha.co.za/tickets