Lara Foot Newton – South African theatre director, writer and producer has been recognized nationally and internationally for her unique vision and the courage and honesty with which she approaches her work.  She has directed more than 30 productions, 23 of which have been new South African works, including the hugely acclaimed The Well Being, which played to sold out audiences at the National Arts Centre in 2004.  In 2005, Lara Foot Newton was appointed Rolex Protégé in Theatre under the mentorship of Sir Peter Hall.  The two worked together on Tshepang.

Inspired by the shocking true story of the rape of 9 month old "Baby Tshepang" the play takes African storytelling and mixes it with complex psychological and personal issues. It draws on the experiences of South Africans, dealing with issues such as innocence, the focus of the world media, accusations and counter accusations in a setting of brilliant simplicity and symbolism.  While the topic may be brutal, the way it is handled is sensitive, even poetic, earning the production praise from audiences and critics around the globe.