Bianca Amato is currently in Cape Town rehearsing ‘LUNGS’ ahead of its run at Pieter Toerien’s Theatre On The Bay from 7 – 24 February, 2024.

‘LUNGS’ is a funny, off-kilter love story, that explores the debate around the environmental impact of having children in today’s world, a world that is becoming more and more focussed on sustainable living.

Dean Roberts.

30 January, 2024.

South African actress and director, Bianca Amato. Images: biancaamato.com

DR: You last appeared on our stages in Pieter Toerien’s 2001 production of ‘Proof’, starring Michael Atkinson. Since then you have worked extensively overseas – how does it feel to be home again?

BA: Shew! Such a wild mix of emotions! I returned for family life and that has been very special. The process of building up a similar work life to the one I experienced in the US has begun and I feel very excited by it. It hasn’t come easy, what with having a baby and then COVID in the middle of it all. But the challenges that I’ve had make it all the sweeter now, as it gains momentum.

Bianca Amato and Michael Atkinson in ‘Proof’, July 2001 at Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre. Image: Pieter Toerien Productions / Instagram.

DR: A performing highlight that you wish to share?

BA: Do I have to pick just one? Working with Jack O’ Brien and Tom Stoppard in the Coast of Utopia trilogy at Lincoln Centre. All the Shakespeare I got to do in NYC. The Importance of Being Earnest directed by Sir Peter Hall.

Bianca Amato with Christine Baranski and Matt Czuchry in The Good Wife (2009). Image: IMDb.

Playing Amanda in Private Lives directed by Maria Aitken. Playing Elizabeth Bennet in Pride and Prejudice and Eliza Doolittle in Pygmalion at the wonderful Guthrie Theatre. Playing opposite Bill Irwin, sharing a stage with Billy Crudup, Ethan Hawke, Martha Plimpton, David Harbour, Lynn Redgrave, Miriam Margolyes. Being directed by Athol Fugard in NYC. I have been beyond lucky.

Sahr Ngaujah, Caleb McLaughlin, Bianca Amato and Leon Addison Brown at the opening of Athol Fugard’s ‘The Painted Rocks At Revolver Creek’ (Off-Broadway 2015). Image: Monica Simoes.

DR: A production that posed unique challenges, and how you overcame them?

BA: Ha! I had to play a ballerina in Mr.Fox: a Rumination. A play by Bill Irwin about a famous clown in 19th century New York City. I played the clown’s wife and I had to learn ballet in 3 weeks. Faking it obviously, not on pointe at all. I had to work VERY HARD to become a little bit graceful. 

DR: South African audiences will of course remember you as Philippa De Villiers in Isidingo, which do you prefer stage or screen?

BA: Stage. I won’t say no to screen, but ja, Stage.

Characters Derek Nyathi (Hlomla Dandala) and Phillipa de Villiers (Bianca Amato) get married on Isidingo – The Need, in 2001. Image: Facebook

DR: Can you tell me about ‘LUNGS’, and how you came across the play?

BA: ‘LUNGS’ is really a peek into a private conversation that spans 40 years. It is both a love story and a searing look at where we are now, us little humans. It is brave, probing, funny, and achingly poignant. It is a play that has come into its time a decade after it was written – it’s actually quite unsettling to see how much more relevant it is now, given the current climate crisis. I read it in 2018. It spoke to me. I could hear it. Duncan Macmillan writes in a very particular way and I feel very connected to it.

British playwright Duncan Macmillan. Image: Evening Standard.

[LINK] Read more on Playwright Duncan Macmillan and how ‘LUNGS’ came to be.

DR: What attracts you to this project?

BA: The style of it – it’s vital and smart and potent and demands virtuosity from its performers. The humanity of it. The humor. The joy of it! It’s a rollercoaster ride, and it’s such a great piece for two young actors to revel in. Jazzara and Sanda are just extraordinary – I cannot wait for people to fall in love with them.

Jazzara Jaslyn and Sanda Shandu, star in Duncan Macmillan’s ‘LUNGS’, on at Theatre On The Bay from 7 February, 2024. Image: Claude Barnardo.

DR: How do you approach casting a play – this play in particular?

BA: Very carefully! I saw many people, many lovely performers, but I was looking for two people who have an instinct about the essence of the characters, as well as an understanding of what is needed from them stylistically. And most importantly, they need to have chemistry with each other. The piece is very intimate and asks for vulnerability and connection.

DR: How do you collaborate with actors, to bring about their best performances?

BA: Every actor is unique, and their process is too. Respecting this is very important to me. But the most important thing, especially when you have a good play on your hands, is to honor the text. To really investigate together, to be exacting and specific. If we can do that together, find each other in the investigation, put the text first, and play, play, play, while always staying true to the intentions of the writer, we’ll be on our way.

DR: What do you wish the audiences to take away from this experience?

BA: I hope they feel that they have been given a gift, that they have been allowed to eavesdrop on two people’s lives, and that they feel richer for it. I want them to have a good laugh and a good cry. And perhaps, who knows, maybe they will feel galvanised to help tackle the climate crisis in some personal way? At the very least, recycle! 

DR: You have formed your new production company, The Quickening Theatre Company. How did this come about, and what sort of projects are you looking at producing in future?

BA: In South Africa you can’t just wait for the phone to ring. We as artists have to forge ahead and make our own work. I have been circling around the idea of creating my own theatre company for a few years now, but the thought of doing it alone was daunting. I met Kensiwe Tshabalala last year, and we quickly realized we could make a really great team. The Quickening is dedicated to producing contemporary plays that excite South African audiences, and to revitalizing Shakespeare and other classical playwrights in productions that resonate with us all and reflect the here and now. We are hugely excited to see what lies ahead!

BOOK HERE!

DR: What do you consider the most rewarding aspect of being a theatre director?

BA: Getting to craft stories. To help birth something. Getting to work with others to weave magic from words. I love language and I love people and I love moments.

DR: What do you believe are the key qualities of a successful theatre director?

BA: I’m learning as I go, but I would think listening, being patient, trusting the process, trusting your instincts, and not taking yourself too seriously. Knowing when to speak and when to shut up (still very much learning!) Having vision, but being flexible. Leaning into the humor in the room. Not being too precious. Letting people breathe. Having fun. But always looking to honor the work, to be exacting, to not settle for surface choices, to keep digging, keep honing, keep divining the truth. Also, inspiring and motivating people! Making them feel energised and lucky to be doing this work. My favorite director and role model, Jack O’Brien, would give such gorgeous, rousing speeches about the work that we would feel like we would do anything for him. I can only dream of capturing a casts heart and imagination the way he does.

Jazzara Jaslyn and Sanda Shandu, star in Duncan Macmillan’s ‘LUNGS’, on at Theatre On The Bay from 7 February, 2024. Image: Claude Barnardo.

Presented by The Quickening Theatre company and Gloucester Productions, ‘LUNGS’ by Duncan MacMillan runs at Theatre On The Bay from 7 – 24 February, 2024.

Performances from Tuesdays to Saturdays at 7:30pm, with Saturday matinees at 3pm.

Tickets available from Webtickets, or the Theatre On The Bay box-office on (021) 438-3301.

Age restriction: 13

For more information on Bianca Amato, visit http://www.biancaamato.com/.

BOOK HERE!

 

 

In this bilingual production, Andre explores his relationship with all that is Andrew Lloyd Webber. Since encountering his work for the first time at the age of 12 when he saw Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.

From 21 – 26, May 2024 at Theatre on The Bay.

He utilizes his relationship with Webber as a platform from which to tell his own life story. Stripped. Raw. Vulnerable. How do we cope when the colours of our own coats change?

Keep on dreaming, even when dreams and reality becomes indistinguishable.

Treffers soos Any Dream will Do, You must love Me, Music of the Night, No Matter What en Send in the Clowns, skyn in hierdie produksie.

Die liedere is kaalgestroop, kwesbaar en eerlik.

Packed houses, standing ovations and nominations at various arts-festivals are testament to the success of this production.

Director: Matthew Counihan

Musical Director: Bryan Schimmel

Piano: Dawid Boverhoff

Guitar: Mauritz Lotz

Booking link: https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/Event.aspx?itemid=1538947649

 

CONRAD KOCH & CHESTER MISSING’S ‘BAGGAGE’

Theatre On The Bay from 28 February – 2 March, 2024.


In this laugh out loud, feel-good explosion of comedic silliness, internationally acclaimed ventriloquist Conrad Koch wants to get personal about his ‘Baggage’. But his best friend, superstar puppet Chester Missing (who lives in actual baggage), has other plans. In his usual funny and irreverent way Chester thinks Conrad’s ‘problems’ are a joke. In fact all the voices in Conrad’s head have bad and outrageous advice on everything: anxiety, climate change, dating, load-shedding and much much more. Meet the hilarious crew, including Hilton the booty shaking ostrich, Mr Dixon, retired high school teacher we can all relate to, and even a fashionista lion, this interactive comedy show is a LOL ensemble of one. ‘Baggage’ won a Standard Bank Ovation Award at the National Arts Festival.
​​
Chester Missing is famous in South Africa for his satirical news TV shows, and his many viral social media posts, with 100 million views on TikTok alone. Conrad’s theatre shows have received critical acclaim globally, and has featured on the likes of Comedy Central, Canada’s Comedy Network, Just for Laughs, etc.

“Fiercely intelligent… Frenzied Hilarity” The List, UK
“Brings the roof down” The Independent, UK
“Hilarious” Mail & Guardian

Booking link: https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/Event.aspx?itemid=1538779260

Baggage is PG16, although everyone is welcome.

Alan Committie is back and he is FAST AND (reasonably) FURIOUS!

South African stand-up comedy Hall-of-Famer, Alan Committie, returns for a laugh-filled start to 2024.

He is on stage at Theatre On The Bay with his latest, brand new stand up show: FAST AND REASONABLY FURIOUS, until 3 February, 2024.

Displaying his lighting fast wit coupled with his madcap phyisicality and renowned crowd engagement, this is Committie screeching his way across the stage with high octane, Vin-diesel fueled laughs for the post-holiday season.

What to expect?

A flip chart filled with flagrantly flippant fun facts.

Rants and ruminations around Coronations, World Cup fever, Artificial Intelligence and so much more….

In addition, Committie is throwing in an interval. For free. Twenty minutes of time that you can use in any way you choose. No questions asked. If you choose not to leave the theatre auditorium during the interval period then your twenty minutes will be transferred to your eBucks account and can be used to purchase hopes and dreams at your nearest SPAR.*

If you want to unwind after another 12 months of stressful survival then this is the release, relief and roucous night that you are looking for.

Perfect entertainment for your whole family (except that one uncle that nobody likes….do NOT invite him. For everyone’s sake)

Directed by Fleur du Cap Lifetime achievement winner Christopher Weare and designed by tequila sipping daytime achievement runner up Niall Griffin.

Alan Committie – faster than Cheslin Kolbe and yet the physique of Ox Nche….. A comedy prop who’s quite good at winging it!

Booking link: https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/Event.aspx?itemid=1536522657

 

LUNGS by Duncan McMillan

– From 7 – 24 February, 2024 at Theatre On The Bay.

The Quickening Theatre company and Gloucester Productions are thrilled to present Duncan MacMillan [1]’s West End hit play LUNGS, which has been produced worldwide to great acclaim.

Duncan MacMillan’s LUNGS at Theatre On The Bay from 7 – 24 February, 2024.

Dates: 7 – 24 February, 2024

Venue: Theatre On The Bay

Performance times: Tuesdays to Saturdays at 7:30pm, with Saturday matinees at 3pm.

Age restriction: 13 (Themes & language).

Do we? Can we? Should we? A young urban couple consider whether or not to have a child in today’s toxic and insecure environment, beset by global warming and political unrest.

What unfolds is a dazzling rollercoaster ride through a shared lifetime.

Fiercely funny, disarmingly honest and heartbreakingly poignant, LUNGS is a love story for our generation, for whom uncertainty and chaos is a way of life.

The play is directed by Bianca Amato, with Jazzara Jaslyn and Sanda Shandu as the couple in question.

Designed by Patrick Curtis.

(Image) Jazzara Jaslyn and Sanda Shandu star in LUNGS, directed by Bianca Amato, at Theatre On The Bay (Photo: Claude Barnardo).

Tickets available from Webtickets, or the theatre box-office on (021) 438-3301.

Booking link: https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/Event.aspx?itemid=1538781115&performanceday=01-FEB-2024#EventTicketPanel_divCalendar

Images by Claude Barnardo.

MORE ABOUT THE CAST:

Jazzara Jaslyn:

Jazzara Jaslyn is a theatre, film and television actress born and based in Cape Town, South Africa.

She graduated from UCT in 2014 with a BA in Theatre and Performance. A promising theatre career ensued, including a tour of the stage adaption of Fatal Attraction where she played the complex lead role of Alex Forrest.

Jazzara made her debut feature film role as Olympia in Warner Brothers’ A Cinderella Story. She has since portrayed notable roles on screen including Jane Swann in Professionals (Brendan Fraser, Dir. Ciaran Donnelly, Bharat Nalluri) and Miranda Hugo in Mnet’s Lioness.

She has a deep passion for exploring the human condition which has now manifested in her creating her own work as a director and writer.

Dancing and singing is another expression she loves, be it in the lounge or on stage. Travelling fills her with the most joy and inspiration, diving into foreign cultures and new ways of thinking.

Sanda Shandu:

Born in Durban and raised in Newcastle KZN, Sanda Shandu is a Cape Town based actor, voice artist and musician.

Whilst being a classically trained vocalist and pianist, Sanda studied at UCT and completed a Bachelor of Social Sciences in Economics and Organisational Psychology in 2015. With his heart still set on performing, it wasn’t long after his studies that he landed his first professional stage role in The Fugard Theatre’s Orpheus in Africa as ‘Richard Collins’ in 2015. ​

2017 brought about more work at The Fugard Theatre where he landed a role in South Africa’s legendary hit musical King Kong as menacingly smooth gangster, “Lucky Lukasi”, which earned him his first Fleur du Cap and Naledi awards for Best Supporting Actor in a Musical. He received another Fleur du Cap nomination for his supporting roles as ‘Richmond/Dorset’ in Richard III  at Maynardville Open-Air Theatre in 2019 and another for his supporting role in The Unlikely Secret Agent.

On screen you can see him in Netflix’s The Kissing Booth as “Randy”. He starred in South African neo-noir TV series Skemerdans as ‘Charlie’ and murder mystery series Donkerbos as detective ‘Tsedza Tshivenga’. South African movies Mlungu Wam (2021) as ‘Stuart’ and in 1960 (2022) as ‘Tshepo’.

Back on stage, he reprised the role of “Nick” in the 60th Anniversary of world acclaimed play ‘Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf’ at the end of 2022 at Theatre on the Bay and Montecasino which earned him a nomination at both Fleur du Cap and Naledi Theatre Awards.

(Image) Jazzara Jaslyn and Sanda Shandu star in LUNGS, directed by Bianca Amato, at Theatre On The Bay (Photo: Claude Barnardo).

 

Alan Committie

Is back and he is

FAST AND (reasonably) FURIOUS!

 

South African stand-up comedy Hall-of-Famer, Alan Committie, returns for a laugh-filled start to 2024. He appears at Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre in Joburg with his latest, brand new stand up show: FAST AND REASONABLY FURIOUS!

 

Displaying his lighting fast wit coupled with his madcap phyisicality and renowned crowd engagement, this is Committie screeching his way across the stage with high octane, Vin-diesel fueled laughs for the post-holiday season.

 

What to expect?

A flipchart filled with flagrantly flippant fun facts.

Johan van der Walt exptemporizing about eggs and chickens

Rants and ruminations around Coronations, World Cup fever, Artificial Intelligence and so much more….

 

In addition, Committie is throwing in an interval. For free. Twenty minutes of time that you can use in any way you choose. No questions asked. If you choose not to leave the theatre auditorium during the interval period then your twenty minutes will be tranfered to your eBucks account and can be used to purchase hopes and dreams at your nearest SPAR.*

 

If you want to unwind after another 12 months of stressful survival then this is the release, relief and roucous night that you are looking for.

Perfect entertainemnt for your whole family (except that one uncle that nobody likes….do NOT invite him. For everyone’s sake)

 

Directed by Fleur du Cap Lifetime achievement winner Christopher Weare and designed by tequila sipping daytime achievement runner up Niall Griffin.

 

Alan Committie – faster than Cheslin Kolbe and yet the physique of Ox Nche….. A comedy prop who’s quite good at winging it!

 

Directly from its success at Toyota US WOORDFEES last weekend in Stellenbosch, playing to standing ovations, and to sold out audiences, Maynardville Open Air Festival is for the first time in its 67th year history touring the production of A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM to Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre in Johannesburg.

 

For a limited run, this year’s hilarious, smash hit production of Shakespeare’s comedic masterpiece, A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM, will transport audiences into the captivating world of Athenian forests, where romance, mischief, and the whimsical realm of fairies collide in a tapestry of comedy and romance. Prepare to be captivated as this iconic play weaves a tale of love-struck couples, eccentric actors, and mischievous fairies, blurring the line between reality and fantasy.

 

This magical journey of love and self-discovery is rife with mistaken identities, playful gender swaps, magical spells, and mischievous pranks, all brilliantly portrayed by a cast many will recognize – including Chi Mhende and Mark Elderkin, and will be debuting paralympic athlete Caleb Swanepoel in the role of Puck.

 

The comedy explores the complexities of human relationships, the power of dreams, and the unpredictability of love, making it as relevant today as it was in Shakespeare’s time. Directed by the talented Geoffrey Hyland, A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM promises to be one of the biggest hits to be seen in Johannesburg theatres this season.

 

Meet the Cast:

 

Oberon/Hippolyta – Chi Mhende

Puck – Caleb Swanepoel

Theseus/Titania – Roberto Kyle

Bottom – Mark Elderkin

Demetrius – Jock Kleynhans

Lysander – Aidan Scott

Helena – Lisa Tredoux

Hermia – Kylie Fisher

Egeus/Snug/Faerie – Sizwesandile Mnisi

Mechanical/Faerie – Tankiso Mamabolo/Mamello Makheta

Flute/Faerie – Tailyn Ramsamy

Snout/Faerie – Zach Esau

Starveling/Faerie – Roland du Preez

 

Critics have raved about this production:

 

“Works like magic!” – The Daily Maverick

“A Winner!” – Broadway World

“This is the best fun you can have. Go! Book! Enjoy!” – Weekend Special

“Fun, accessible, superbly staged, and performed!” – The Cape Robyn

 

Don’t miss your chance to step into this enchanting world of romance, mischief, and magic! Book your tickets now and be part of a theatrical adventure that will leave you spellbound.

 

Dates: 8 – 19 November

Venue: Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre, Montecasino, Fourways

Tickets: Webtickets or contact Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre at (011) 511-1988.

 

 

About The Show

Fresh from their successful tour of England in August 2023, father/daughter duo Adrian and Emma-Jean return to South African stages with their wonderfully entertaining new musical revue show, Striking a Chord.

 

The father/daughter bond is palpable as these two compelling performers take the audience on an awe-inspiring musical journey woven together with amusing anecdotes and thoughtful commentary.  The show features the duo’s most popular covers, such as The Prayer, Time to Say Goodbye and Sound of Silence, musical theatre standards, like I Dreamed a Dream and Defying Gravity and unusual arrangements of classics Pie Jesu & Bring Him Home, Barry Manilow’s One Voice and I Write the Songs, as well as a classical mash-up that includes La Traviata’s Drinking Song and the classical standard O Sole Mio. The show runs for 70 minutes without an interval.

 

I went to the first performance in London, and it was so fabulous that I had to go to the second performance in Tonbridge as well. Your incredible voices and amazing performances had us crying one minute and laughing at Adrian’s dad jokes the next. This is the best show I’ve seen in years.”  – Michelle Welsh.

 

The Cast

Adrian Galliard and his 14-year-old daughter, Emma-Jean, shot to cyber fame in 2020 after a video of the duo singing the famous Andrea Bocelli/Celine Dion hit, The Prayer, went viral.  They parlayed their cyber success into their first theatre show, Accidentally Viral, which played to sold-out houses at the Redhill and Hilton Arts Festivals in 2022.  They are supported by veteran accompanist Neil Bennett.
Emma-Jean is now 16 years old and a consummate performer that belies her youth.

 

You’ll ‘Feel The Earth Move‘! An exciting show is heading to Cape Town and Johannesburg, promising to deliver a fantastic theatrical experience, filled with heart and soul.

VR Theatrical’s Jaco Van Rensburg, and show director Elizma Badenhorst, sat down with Dean Roberts to talk about the exciting new tribute show that will be hitting Pieter Toerien’s Cape Town and Johannesburg theatres in October and November this year.

DR: Following up on the success of ‘Here’s To You – The Simon & Garfunkel Songbook’, what made Carole King’s catalogue so attractive to you?

JVR: Apart from her world-famous Tapestry album, Carole King is a fascinating artist who not only made songs famous herself, but who wrote or co-wrote very many hits that nobody knows was her. Remember Kylie Minogue’s Loco-motion? I bet you didn’t know that that was a Carole King song!

What ultimately drew us to her work, was the fact that her songs are story-songs. They are all like one-act plays that takes the listener on a journey of discovery, making it the perfect music for a theatrical event. 

VR Theatrical producer, Jaco Van Rensburg.

“Our diverse cast is not only excellent, but also lovely humans! It has been an absolute pleasure to create this production around their specific talents.”

DR: Carole King wrote more than 400 songs, 100 of which have hit the Billboard singles chart, how do you go about choosing the songs for the show? 

JVR: I am very lucky to not have to make the final decision here. I leave that to the creative team, although I may have had some opinions and made some suggestions.

EB: Growing up, I loved music from the 60s and 70s. I had no idea who wrote them, I just knew I loved them, later in life I learned that Ms. King wrote many of my favourites. Going through her body of work was equally challenging, as it was a familiar stroll down memory lane. Choosing the songs was, indeed, a delightfully difficult task of mammoth proportions. But I must say, the concept took shape pretty quickly, and once we knew we were ‘up on a roof’ overlooking a city, the songs metaphorically ‘put up their hands’.

‘Up On The Roof – The Carole King Songbook’ director, Elizma Badenhorst.

“Storytelling. These women have a gift of telling stories through their music that any human can relate to in such an authentic way. The human condition addressed, but with exquisite melodies and harmonies to boot.”

DR: Artists such as Adele, Amy Winehouse and Taylor Swift have all credited Carole King as being one of their biggest influences… can you hazard a guess as to what the through line is with these fine artists music? 

JVR: A good narrative. There are shoo-bee-doo-bee pop-songs and there are songs with lyrics like:

“When this old world starts getting me down

And people are just too much for me to face

I climb way up to the top of the stairs

And all my cares just drift right into space”

They’re relatable and timeless songs.

EB: Storytelling. These women have a gift of telling stories through their music that any human can relate to in such an authentic way. The human condition addressed, but with exquisite melodies and harmonies to boot. 

DR: Your promotional material highlights an all-woman cast of singer-musicians who all work together to create these magical soundscapes, what was the casting process like?

JVR: Casting an original production is always strange and wonderful. Because there is no script, we could mould and shape the production around the specific personality and talents that we find – and boy-oh-boy are these ladies talented! Six gorgeous proudly South African women who deliver these timeless songs with excellence!

EB: The casting process of an original piece such as ‘Up on the Roof’ is always interesting to say the least, because the show doesn’t exist yet; you’re not casting a performer for a specific character. But there are so many things to consider. Their skills, their musicianship, their personalities, how will all of them work together; it’s a very intricate puzzle, and I must say, we have built an exquisite cast with our six phenomenal cast members.

DR: Carole King has been called THE greatest songwriter of all time, and being responsible for penning the soundtrack to our lives. Why do you think these well-written songs have stood the test of time? 

JVR: She’s a great story-teller with an ear for writing a ‘hook’ – you know, that little bit of a song that gets stuck in your mind and that you can’t get out of your head.

Her themes are universal and timeless (often about falling in or out of love) and have emotional depth. While this all sounds very cerebral, her melodies are also catchy! I think the combination of all of these things make her music timeless.

EB: Ms. King has the ability to put words and melodies to universal feelings of love and loss, the ups and downs of life. We all know exactly what she’s addressing in her songs and most importantly, it then makes us not feel alone. 

DR: The music of Carole King is especially comforting, and with themes of love, relationships, and the idyllic notion of what ‘home means… how have you considered these themes when selecting the numbers as well as the ensemble cast? 

JVR: Our brilliant director, Elizma Badenhorst has come up with a clear concept that drives the overall narrative of the show. We did not want it to be ‘just another tribute show’ but rather to be thematically linked. Our musical director, Wessel Odendaal created original arrangements that emphasise the emotional impact of the songs.

Once the concept was established, i.e. a group of friends meet for a glass of wine on a ‘New York type’ rooftop and sing songs about their lives, the material sort of chose itself.

Our diverse cast is not only excellent, but also lovely humans! It has been an absolute pleasure to create this production around their specific talents. 

This production features a cast of six multi-talented female performers including Ashley Butcher (bass, guitar, ukulele), Louise Duhain (piano/keyboards), Angelica Hattingh (guitar), Sanli Jooste (cello), Neo Motaung (percussion) and Tiisetso Sefatsa (percussion).

DR: Could we perhaps argue that Carole King is the perfect everywoman figure: an alto singer (too low for soprano voice and too high for a tenor), the perfect mix for soul music? 

JVR: Yes! Unique is our Carole. Not only a brilliant songwriter, but also an exquisite vocalist in her own right, solidifying the singer/songwriter category in pop music history. 

DR: How are you aiming to marry the sublime sounds of Carole King’s catalogue, with the staging of such a dynamic ensemble presentation? 

JVR: The fact that we don’t have one person impersonating Carole King gives us scope to play with dynamic staging, interesting choreography and incredible vocal arrangements – all necessary to create an interesting piece of theatre.

Add to that a boho-chic inspired rooftop setting and theatrical lighting and you have a magic recipe for harmonic heavenliness!

EB: When the concept came to me, it all fell into place so seamlessly: six girl friends meeting up on a roof overlooking the city observing some people down below and commenting through Ms. King’s songs on what they possibly could go through, realising we’re all pretty much the same. 

DR: ‘(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Women’ is a song that emphasises the route of self-discovery, of a woman’s natural inner beauty. How do you want the audience to leave the theatre ‘feeling’? 

JVR: Things are tough out there and people are tired. This production guarantees to make you forget your troubles for at least two hours, to fill you with hope, heart and optimism and will make you leave the theatre feeling happier than when you entered! I can only describe the experience as a warm, glowing ember that will ignite the fire we all carry within ourselves.

EB: Uplifted…. And I guarantee this is what audience members will feel. They are going to hum along, laugh, shed a few nostalgic tears, but will definitely leave feeling better about life.

DR: Who will enjoy this exciting piece of live theatre?

JVR: You do not have to know Carole King’s catalogue in order to enjoy this incredible production. There is so much to listen to, look at and appreciate, from the beautiful setting to the gorgeous harmonies and the amazingly talented performers onstage. If you are the kind of person who enjoys any kind of live entertainment, there will be something here for you! 

EB: This is one of the many things a love about Ms. King’s music. Whether you know her/her work, or not, you will enjoy her music. The range of styles this woman composed in is incredible: soul, folk, pop, rock, jazz, R&B and more. If you love music, you will enjoy this production.

‘Up On The Roof – The Carole king Songbook’ runs at Theatre On the Bay in Cape Town from 5 October and at Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino theatre in Johannesburg from 1 November, 2023.

Direction & concept – Elizma Badenhorst

Musical direction & orchestration – Wessel Odendaal

Scenic design – Nadine Minnaar

Wardrobe co-ordination – Elizma Badenhorst

Lighting design – Kieran McGregor

Graphic design – Jaco Van Rensburg

Sound design – Christo Davis

Duration is approx’ 2-hours, including a 20-minute interval.

Age restriction: none.

Tickets are available from Webtickets or by dialling CPT (021) 438-3301 or JHB (011) 511-1988.

Booking link: https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/search.aspx?search=up+on+the+roof

‘Up On The Roof – The Carole King Songbook’ brought to you by VR Theatrical.

 

Mzansi Ballet presents the RETURN BY HUGE DEMAND of their spectacular – The QUEEN Show!

Main Theatre, 13 December to 14 Jan

Bookings now open at WEBTICKETS

 

Pieter Toerien and Gloucester Productions present

SAME TIME, NEXT YEAR By Bernard Slade

This spring you can enjoy the hilarious romantic comedy that was one of the longest running hits on Broadway.

Same Time, Next Year is a comic play that focuses on two happily married people – BUT, JUST NOT TO EACH OTHER! George and Doris meet for a romantic weekend tryst at a B&B once every year for 25 years. What follows is a snapshot of the ‘shortest long-term relationship’ ever.

This rom-com is a heartwarming but hylarious look at friendship, connection, passionate and platonic love and the unnerving rollercoaster of growing older.

Multi-award winning actor and comedian, Alan Committie, teams up with celebrated stage and screen actress, Sharon Spiegel Wagner, to portray George and Doris, respectively.

The production team includes direction by Christopher Weare (Fleur du Cap Lifetime achievement recipient) and design by acclaimed scenographer Niall Griffin.

Theatre impresario, Pieter Toerien, shares the following:  “What a delight to re-introduce today’s audience to one of the classic Broadway comedies. In our current climate, a night of laughter and heart is exactly what our audience is looking for”.

Same Time, Next Year runs at theatre on the Bay from August 30th to September 16th and then has a limited season at Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre from 20th September to October the 8th.

Bookings can be made through the respective theatres or through Webtickets.

Duration: 2-hours including a 20-minute interval.
Not suitable for under 16’s

Louise Carver – HOME Tour Live

Studio Theatre, Montecasino

2 & 3 September

Singer/songwriter Louise Carver, a passionate advocate of South African music, has curated a 75-minute production that transcends ordinary shows.

The show seamlessly blends iconic classics like “Paradise Road” & “Weeping” with newer hits & Louise’s own chart-toppers, creating a tapestry of soulful ballads, rock anthems & vibrant rhythms.

The carefully crafted setlist, storytelling & impeccable performances will transport you to a place of nostalgia & emotion.

With Louise on piano/vocals, Simphiwe Kulla on guitar/backing vocals & Kenny Williams on percussion, this powerful trio create an acoustic symphony that unites talent & passion, reconnecting the audience to their South African roots.

James Grace & Rocco de Villiers To Ignite Theatre On the Bay.

‘5 Nights in November’ with James Grace & Rocco de Villiers.

 Pieter Toerien’s Theatre on the Bay from 15-18 November

Performances:

Wednesday 15 November, 8pm

Thursday 16 November, 8pm

Friday, 17 November, 8pm

Saturday, 18 November, 3pm

Saturday, 18 November, 8m

Guitarist James Grace and pianist Rocco de Villiers bring an unlikely collaboration of two musicians different in personalities, style, dress, hair and age.

But they meet in the middle of the musical landscape through that what they are in service of – music and theatre. Walking through this landscape they pause at destinations from Spain to Swellendam, Bach to Bothaville, Mexico to Mondeor and Bethlehem to Bethlehem in the Free State.

The 90-minute show is a celebration of hope, happiness, heritage and history – all facilitated by playing, joking, stories and reflection.

5 Nights.

2 Musicians.

1 Goal.

A note a minute.

A laugh a minute.

A joy a minute.

Not to be missed. Women, men and alternatives welcome.

Ticket prices:

R150 Row A Stalls

R200 Rows B, K Stalls / & CC Balcony

R250 Rows C – J / AA & BB Balcony

Boxes sold as 4: R250 each seat

Booking at Webtickets or (021) 438-3300/1.

VR Theatrical presents ‘Up On The Roof – The Carole King Songbook’

From the producers of the smash-hit show, ‘Here’s To You – The Simon & Garfunkel Songbook’ comes another magical theatrical event: UP ON THE ROOF – THE CAROLE KING SONGBOOK is a celebration of Carole King’s hit songs with fresh, new musical arrangements by our very own Wessel Odendaal.

Directed by Elizma Badenhorst and showcasing some of our industry’s most talented performers and instrumentalists.

With a canon of evergreen hits including ‘You’ve Got A Friend’ and ‘I Feel The Earth Move’, Up On The Roof is sure to have you singing and dancing in your seats.

Theatre On The Bay from 5 to 21 October, 2023.

                                                               Cape Town Book Here!

Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre from 1 to 26 November, 2023.

                                                           Johannesburg Book Here!

3 – 19 August, 2023
Weekdays at 8pm
Saturday at 3pm and 8pm

After a sold-out season at Theatre On The Bay, Jonathan Roxmouth returns with KEY CHANGE.
Jonathan showcases the various piano-based comedians, singers and entertainers who have shaped and influenced his musical tastes through various phases of his life. Backed by a fantastic 5-piece band, Jonathan will be playing and belting out the music of piano rockers such as JERRY LEE LEWIS, ELTON JOHN, and BILLY JOEL, pianists like LIBERACE, and singers such as CAROLE KING, and FREDDIE MERCURY in a personal pianistic performance.

Age restriction: All Ages
Duration: Approx’ 2-hours incl. a 20-minute interval

Book here!

 

It’s A Kinda Magic – Mzansi Ballet’s The Queen Show

Mzansi Ballet’s The Queen Show

Theatre On The Bay from 25 October to 11 November, 2023

Honouring a rock band that has stood the test of time, having inspired many generations to live their highest truth, “The Queen Show” is a family-friendly production that will thrill you with a kind of magic.

Boasting a diverse cast that has performed on some of the world’s best stages – from Brazil all the way to the United Kingdom – The Queen Show is fittingly deemed a “world-class” production. After capturing the hearts of Brazilian audiences in the ballet-meets-pantsula production, “Bengingazi”, choreographer Michael Revie delivers inspiring movement with his equally accomplished wife, Angela Revie, at his right hand.

Whether you’re looking for a show to love, a rhapsody of nostalgia, or even a kind of magic – “The Queen Show” will certainly rock you.

BOOK HERE!

Charles Dicken’s A Christmas Carol returns!

VR Theatricals’ charming production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol returns to Montecaisno and Theatre On The Bay.

Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre from 29 November to 10 December, 2023.

Pieter Toerien’s Theatre On The Bay from  6 to 16 December, 2023.

It has been described as ‘a sumptuous banquet for the eyes, ears and imagination; a sensory delight for any tired soul.’ This is the perfect show to celebrate humanity, family and above all, generosity of spirit!

BOOK HERE!

 

Alan Committie and Sharon Spiegel-Wagner in Bernard Slade’s comedy ‘Same Time, Next Year’.

Pieter Toerien and Gloucester Productions present

‘Same Time, Next Year’

The hit play Bernard Slade

Cape Town: Pieter Toerien’s Theatre On The Bay from 30 August – 16 September, 2023

Jo’burg: Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre from 20 September – 8 October, 2023

This Spring you can enjoy an hilarious romantic comedy that was one of the longest running hits on Broadway.

Same Time, Next Year is a hilarious play that focuses on two people, married to others, who meet for a romantic tryst once a year for 25 years. It’s a heartwarming but hilarious look at friendship, connection, love and growing older.

Alan Committie (award winning actor and comedian) teams up with celebrated stage and Tv actress Sharon Spiegel Wagner to play George and Doris, respectively.

Under the comedy direction of Christopher Weare and with design by scenographer Niall Griffin, Same Time, Next Year promises to be a fantastic night out at the theatre.

Duration: 2-hours including a 20-minute interval.
Not suitable for under 16’s

BOOK HERE!

 

Actress, starring Talia Kodesh, directed by Daniel Geddes and produced by Collett Dawson, is a musical dramedy, the story of a woman trying to define (and succeed in) her different roles – actress, wife, mother, daughter, teacher, and more – while juggling the complexities of all of those responsibilities. The show features eight original songs by Bruce Dennill.

The story takes place in New York and South Africa, following Actress on her journey through stress and success, anger and auditions, triumph and tears, dance and delirium and, perhaps, the possibility of peace. There is also assistance and emotional support from an unexpected source…

It’s a tale that anyone who has ever had to adjust to new expectations – their own or someone else’s – will relate to. Plus showtunes! Pack your dancing shoes, your Theraband, your passport and your tissues.

 

STUDIO THEATRE

27 September – 8 October

WILLY RUSSELL’S CLASSIC COMEDY, EDUCATING RITA:

NOW ON STAGE AT THEATRE ON THE BAY UNTIL 15 JULY!

Willy Russell’s Educating Rita – now on stage at Theatre On The Bay.

Tally Ho! Productions is proud to present a new production of Willy Russell’s classic comedy, EDUCATING RITA.

Rita White, a young Liverpudlian hairdresser enrols in an Open University course to study literature to better herself and escape from her drab and dreary working-class world. Along the way, she meets her tutor, Frank Bryant, a jaded professor who quickly becomes fascinated by Rita’s offbeat take on the world of academia.

EDUCATING RITA was originally commissioned by the Royal Shakespeare company and opened to great acclaim in 1980.

The play was adapted in 1983 to a multi-award-winning film starring Michael Caine and Julie Waters, which would go on to become a cult-classic.

Featured in the titular role of Rita is Fleur du Cap and Naledi Theatre Award nominee, Zoë McLaughlin, last seen at Theatre On The Bay in the THE LAST FIVE YEARS as Cathy Hiatt.

Playing opposite her as Professor Frank Bryant is multi-award-winning actor Jason K. Ralph, last seen as Lord Wessex in the Fugard Theatre production of SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE.

This production of EDUCATING RITA features a brand-new score by internationally recognised composer Jonathan M. Blair and is directed Paul Griffiths.

With dialogue radiant with the wit and charm of 1980s England, EDUCATING RITA is an intimate, funny, and moving classic about two people trapped in their lives, who in meeting, offer one another an unexpected breath of fresh air.

EDUCATING RITA runs at Theatre On The Bay from 5 to 15 July, 2023.

Tickets range from R150 to R 250 at webtickets.co.za, at any P’nP, or by calling the Theatre On The Bay box-office on (021) 438 3300/1.

Booking link: https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/Event.aspx?itemid=1528565315

Duration: Approximately 120-minutes with a 20-minute interval.

Age-restriction of PG (mild-language usage).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Zoë McLaughlin as Rita White (Production images by Andrew Gorman).


Jason K. Ralph as Frank Bryant (Production images by Andrew Gorman).


Zoë McLaughlin (L) and Jason K. Ralph (R) (Production images by Andrew Gorman).

Jason K. Ralph (L) and Zoë McLaughlin (R) (Production images by Andrew Gorman).

He’s BACK in SA and ready to WOW you with his all-new show!

ANDRE THE HILARIOUS HYPNOTIST

Studio Theatre, Montecasino
3 Dec – 21 Jan

Tickets at Webtickets

Conrad Koch& Chester Missing: Baggage
In this laugh out loud feel-good roller coaster of comedic silliness, internationally acclaimed ventriloquist Conrad Koch wants to get personal about his baggage. But his best friend, superstar puppet Chester Missing (who lives in actual baggage), has other plans. In his usual funny and irreverent way Chester thinks Conrad’s ‘problems’ are a joke. In fact all the voices in Conrad’s head have bad and outrageous advice on everything: anxiety, climate change, dating, loadshedding and much much more. Meet the hilarious crew, including Hilton the booty shaking ostrich, Mr Dixon, retired high school teacher we can all relate to, DJ Hoodie, the DJ made out of a hoodie, and even a fashionista lion, this interactive comedy show is a LOL ensemble of one.

Chester Missing is famous in South Africa for his satirical news TV shows, and his many viral social media posts, with 100 million views on TikTok alone. Conrad’s theatre shows have received critical acclaim globally, and has featured on the likes of Comedy Central, Canada’s Comedy Network, Just for Laughs, etc.

“Fiercely intelligent… Frenzied Hilarity” The List, UK
“Brings the roof down” The Independent, London
“I almost cried with laughter” The Herald

PG 16, but everyone is welcome!

Capetonians will have the opportunity next week to experience the raw and soulful sounds of legendary South African rocker Karen Zoid, with guitarist Henry Steel, in an unforgettable unplugged performance. Stripped down to the essence of their music. An absolute must-see at Pieter Toerien’s Theatre On The Bay: 27 June – 1 July.

Born in Brussels to a South African diplomat, Zoid grew up in Belgium before moving to Johannesburg. Here she attended the National School of the Arts before going on to study drama at AFDA. In 2001, she dropped out of university to focus her attention on music.

Since releasing her first solo album, Poles Apart (2002), Zoid has become such an important part of the home grown scene that her name is now the byword for emotionally charged, downright incendiary South African rock music. The press renamed her followers the ‘Zoid Generation’.

What’s more, through the last decade, Zoid has managed that unusual and frequently tricky feat of balancing popular appeal with critical praise; of securing an audience of both Afrikaans and English speakers; of retaining her individuality in a market known for its desire for ‘sameness’. And through it all, Zoid has held onto an enviable integrity that allows her to speak her mind in a way that only earns her more devotees and proved no barrier to being named Best Female Artist at the 2008 South African Music Awards.

Zoid was a judge on the South African version of the singing competition The Voice. (Credit: Supplied).

Zoid’s super-charged rock energy is an ability to write gorgeous, delicately rendered songs that speak of the emotional vortex that drives this exceptional artist to keep creating. ‘Zoid Afrika’, her latest album shows that Karen Zoid is South Africa’s premier female rock artist, full stop. She has shared the staged with international acts like John Mayer, Annie Lennox, Metallica, Simple Plan, Hothouse Flowers, Seal and UB40.

During her career, Zoid has earned various accolades (including gold album sales) but she says that what continues to drive her is a deep-seated desire to create music that she can get up on stage and play live.

“When I was in that all-girl punk band, or busking or when I am playing to a huge crowd, the feeling I get from delivering my music is still the same – and that’s why I do this. All the stuff that goes around making an album – the promo, the interviews, making videos, the artwork … that’s work. Playing live? That’s what I love.”

Rock-singer-songwriter Karen Zoid. (Photo credit: Ben Reinecke).

Interesting facts:

Music from Zoid’s albums has been included on the audio entertainment of international flights to and from South Africa.

Zoid has also written music for television, with two of her songs featuring in the 2006 movie “Number 10”.

On 3 May 2008, she won her first SAMA award for Best Female Artist.

Karen Zoid performed at the inaugurations of Presidents Thabo Mbeki in 2004, and Jacob Zuma in 2009. She and her band also performed at the Nelson Mandela 46664 HIV/AIDS benefit concert in 2005. 

Zoid and her band have had several concerts in London, mainly to South African audiences. In 2006 they performed in London, Canada and Dubai (at the Dubai Desert Rhythm Festival).

Karen Zoid and Stellenbosch guitarist Henry Steel Jr. (Photo credit: Ben Reinecke).

Tickets range from R150 – R250, and are available from Webtickets or the Theatre On The Bay box-office (021) 438-3300/1.

Booking link: https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/Event.aspx?itemid=1528470954

LAUGHABLE

 

Stuart Taylor returns to our theatre stages with his quintessential mix of hilarious stories and witty punchlines in Laughable.

 

Everything in his life is fair game: from his other half to his offspring, trying to stay fit in his forties, and keeping up with the Joneses (or the Jabulanis or the Jaffers) in the suburbs. You’ll be ‘able’ to laugh at it all (see what we did there?). So, in a world filled with traffic jams, potholes and loadshedding, don’t worry, because laughter is here to save the day… or at least distract us from the tough stuff.

 

Get Laugh-ready, Laugh-willing & Laugh-able with Stuart at Montecasino from 30th June – 2nd July. Grab your tickets ASAP and join Stu for an evening of prescription LOL’s that doesn’t require medical aid or a doctor’s note!

 

Ticket prices range from R150 – R230 and available at www.webtickets.co.za

The show runs for 75mins and is rated PG13.

 

 

Follow Stuart on social media:

Facebook:        Stuart Taylor Comedian

Instagram:       @stuart_taylor_comic

Amanda Strydom : State of the Heart
Studio Theatre, Montecasino
19 July – 6 August

Accompanied by Coenraad Rall on piano

Multi award-winning doyenne of the cabaret stage, Amanda Strydom, wrote “State of the Heart” in 1993 and won the Dalro and Showtime awards for Cabaret of the Year and Show of the year. ”State” was the first of her six self-penned one woman plays to date, in which she integrates a storyline with music to create a one woman musical theatre experience.

This iconic piece of musical theatre has reached cult status through the years and it gives Strydom great pleasure to celebrate the 30th birthday of “State of the Heart” at Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Studio Theatre.

This timeless love story gently pokes fun at the Afrikaner soul and gives a glimpse of the history of South Africa from the twenties to the late seventies. It was a time when women had to know their place, peroxided their skins (because freckles were considered common) and men wore braces and smoked Springboktwak and Boeremeisies had to marry Boereseuns.

The heroine, Maxie de Meyer (a boeremeisie) falls in love with Raymond G. Bartlett (a dashing rooinek) who also happens to be a R.A.F fighter pilot – and a drama in the tradition of Springbokradio serials unfolds.

Strydom sings in English, Afrikaans, French, German, Dutch and Zulu and is accompanied by her long-standing pianist and musical director, the brilliant Coenraad Rall.

“The hills are alive, with the sound of music…”

Presented by Pieter Toerien, with Cape Town Opera, The Sound Of Music returns to South Africa in 2023/4. 

The world’s most loved musical returns to South Africa this December!

Pieter Toerien, with Cape Town Opera, presents the much-anticipated revival tour of Rodgers & Hammerstein‘s classic musical, The Sound Of Music.

Performances begin at the Artscape Opera House on 14 December 2023; the show is the perfect holiday treat for the entire family.

Johannesburg theatre fans will soon after have an opportunity to revel in this full-scale musical masterpiece, from 27 January 2024 at The Teatro at Montecasino.

“Of all the shows we have presented over the years, The Sound Of Music remains in the top five most requested shows by our audience. We are thrilled to be able to present this wonderful show to a whole new generation of musical fans”, says Toerien.

The Sound Of Music marks the 11th and final collaboration between legendary lyricists Rodgers & Hammerstein, and features a treasure trove of popular show tunes, including ‘My Favorite Things’, ‘Edelweiss’, ‘Climb Ev’ry Mountain’, ‘Do-Re-Mi’, ‘Sixteen Going On Seventeen’, and many more.

The inspirational story, based on the memoir of Maria Von Trapp, follows a young nun in-training who serves as governess to the seven children of the imperious Captain Von Trapp, bringing music and joy to the household. But as the forces of Nazism take hold of Austria, Maria and the entire Von Trapp family must make a moral decision.

The original stage production won six Tony awards, including Best Musical, and was then adapted into the five-time Oscar-winning film, which went on to become the most-successful movie musical of all time.

Directed by Steven Stead, this new production, with sumptuous sets and costumes, and songs that will stay with you long after the curtain comes down, will be a stellar theatrical event.

Bookings now open at webtickets.co.za

Booking link: https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/search.aspx?search=The+Sound+Of+Music

Group bookings:

For Cape Town group bookings email dean@theatreonthebay.co.za

For Johannesburg group bookings email geraldine@montetheatre.co.za

Media Enquiries:

For Cape Town media enquiries contact dean@theatreonthebay.co.za

For Johannesburg media enquiries contact mark@montetheatre.co.za

 

Amazing savings

Pieter Toerien & RMB present

The MZANSI TENORS

21 – 25 June 2023

The Mzansi Tenors come to Montecasino this June, after a sold-out season at Theatre on The Bay. Photo by Gustav Klotz.

After triumphant appearances around the country, the Mzansi Tenors, hosted by Richard Cock and supported by Rand Merchant Bank, are coming to Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino theatre from 21 June – 25 June.

Only 6 performances!

Guest appearance by Nádine (Jesus Christ Superstar, Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Musiek Roulette), and introducing Sinesipho Mnyango.

Their dynamic Opera-style programme includes tenor arias, signature African pieces, Neapolitan favourites and musical theatre memories.

“They are a South African sensation,” says Rand Merchant Bank’s Carolynne Waterhouse. “They could hold their own anywhere in the world. RMB is enormously proud to be able to help in celebrating, rewarding and nurturing such phenomenal talent through the RMB Talent Unlocked programme.”

Watch RMB’s Carolynne Waterhouse and Mzansi Tenors founding member, Sipho Fubesi, chatting to Expresso’s Katlego Maboe about the origin of this incredible group.

“With the ten tenors performing in their signature Afro-opera style, you are sure to get shivers down your spine”, says Maestro Richard Cock.

Watch the Mzansi Tenors performing ‘‘Qaqamba Nyana Wam” live on SABC 3’s Expresso.

PERFORMANCES:

Wednesday 21 June at 7:30pm

Thursday 22 June at 7:30pm

Friday 23 June at 7:30pm

Saturday 24 June at 3pm

Saturday 24 June at 3pm

Sunday 25 June at 3pm

Tickets range from R135 – R300

BOOK HERE!

A proudly South African production, which will inspire everyone!

 

Mzansi Ballet is very happy to announce that we will staging Swan Lake. The ballet Swan Lake is arguably the world’s most popular classical ballet and for the Ballet lovers the brand new Mzansi Ballet production will include the Black Swan pas de deux, the White Swan pas de deux, the cygnets and the big swans.

The exploration of the character of the magician, Von Rothbart, – performed by the acclaimed Naledi award winner Ms Cathy Specific / Brendan van Rhyn – will form part of this exciting new production. The ballet will be staged and choreographed by Angela Revie and Liane Lurie and will be directed by Dirk Badenhorst. The cast will include Angela Revie, Shana Dewey, Veronica Louw, Javier Monier Jr., Marlon Frometa, Joshua Williams, and Aviwe November in the lead roles.

The production will be staged at the Pieter Toerien Theatre, Montecasino from 19 July to 20 August 2023. Tickets are available at Webtickets. Ticket prices range from R150 to R350.

Following up on the success of their previous dance production, ‘Come Together: The Beatles Covered / Uncovered’, the Luitingh Alexander Musical Theatre Academy – LAMTA – presents their new dance production VINTAGE JUKEBOX at Theatre On The Bay from 14 to 24 June, 2023.

Vintage Jukebox celebrates the spirit of the Roaring Twenties and welcomes you to the era of the speakeasy, flappers, prohibition and jazz music! The show features a large cast of talented LAMTA triple threat student performers and showcases the choreography of some of South Africa’s top talent; Michelle Reid, Sean Bovim, Jared Schaedler, Adele Blank, Liam Gillespie, Shameelah Kinnear, Brigitte Reeve, Robin van Wyk, Duane Alexander and Ashley Searle.

It’s a high-octane, nostalgic, retro-journey through the music and culture of the 1920s – but with a 21st century twist. From reimagined contemporary tunes to jazzy ballads and bluesy vocals, the show offers something for everyone and promises to be another exhilarating evening at the theatre.

(Left to right) Leah Mari, Nandipa Nyivana, Ghia Hough, Austin Tshikosi, Miguel di Sampaio, Naoline Quinzin, Anina Wall, Michelle Junker, Sarah Wolhuter, and  Bradley Smith.

According to LAMTA Director, Anton Luitingh, the show is sure to appeal to both fans of 1920’s culture and to newcomers of the genre alike. “We’ve worked hard to create a production that captures both the spirit and energy of the era, whilst also bringing our own fresh and innovative approach to the choreography and staging”. “Whether you’re a die-hard Baby Boomer or a curious Millennial, we guarantee that you’ll be bopping your head, tapping your feet, and humming along as you are swept into the world of VINTAGE JUKEBOX”, says Luitingh.

The production will run from the 14 to 24 June 2023, at Pieter Toerien’s Theatre on The Bay in Camps Bay.

Tickets for VINTAGE JUKEBOX are now on sale through Webtickets or the theatre box-office on (021) 438-3300/1.

Don’t miss this opportunity to dress up in your best Gatsby gear, enter our Speakeasy, and celebrate one of the most decadent decades of the 20th century.

Booking link: https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/Event.aspx?itemid=1528567741

Marc Lottering at Theatre On The Bay from 18 – 29 July.

SO I WROTE THAT MUSICAL is Marc Lottering’s brand new stand-up comedy show, running at Theatre On The Bay from 18 – 29 July.

Marc has recently come out of his smash hit musical AUNTY MERLE THINGS GET REAL. Seen by more than 40 000 people, it was the third musical penned by Lottering.

In his new solo stand-up show, one of South Africa’s favourite comedians shares hilarious stories as he reflects on the fascinating process of moving between the worlds of stand-up comedy and musicals. And as is to be expected, Lottering will weave in his views on the madness of current South African life.

SO I WROTE THAT MUSICAL runs for 80 minutes with no interval and is not suitable for children.

Tickets range from R150 – R250

Booking link: https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/Event.aspx?itemid=1526673950

Marc Lottering in SO I WROTE THAT MUSICAL. (Credit: Oscar O’Ryan)

 

 

Karen Zoid 2023

Experience the raw and soulful sounds of legendary South African rocker Karen Zoid and guitarist Henry Steel in an unforgettable unplugged performance. Stripped down to the essence of their music.

An absolute must-see at the fabulous Theatre On The Bay 27 June – 1 July.

Tickets range from R150 – R250

Booking link: https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/Event.aspx?itemid=1528470954

 

 

Pieter-Dirk Uys’ SELL-BY DATE

Pieter-Dirk Uys will be back at Pieter Toerien’s Theatre on The Bay from 17 to 10 June with a new show.

It is called SELL-BY DATE and, as expected from his one-person performances, features not only PDU but also a cluster of topical characters, male, female and political.

Being active in live theatre since the late 1960s, he is not surprised when people now ask: ‘When will you retire?’ His answer is short and sweet: ‘Not retire. Retread!’

This 2023 performance will also show Uys at his 77-year-old best: laughing at fears and embracing facts with his tongue firmly in your cheek.A sell-by date on food usually means: throw way.

A sell-buy date in Uys’ hands will reflect a new post-Covid energy that, while his audition might be over and the disease to please has been cured, proves that a PDU show is always a highlight to remember.

Interval: No interval
Running time: 70/80 mins max
Languages: English and Afrikaans

Tickets range from R150 – R250

Booking link: https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/Event.aspx?itemid=1526676900

BOEREMUSIEK, ROCCOSTYL

With Rocco de Villiers on piano, Lizelle le Roux on violin and piano accordion and Hansie Roodt Jr on guitars, concertina and stomp box.

As classic as a starched “voortrekkerkappie”, fresh as a milktart straight form the oven and mouthwatering as a “boereworsroll” from the braai, pianist and entertainer Rocco de Villiers uses his wizardry to revisit his childhood music growing up in a small town in the Free State in the 1970’s. But all in his own style, fitted for the 21st century.

Boeremusiek – classics get a new jacket with a flower and together with Lizelle and Hansie they bring new life to pieces like Umfaan, Penny Whistle Kwela, Outa in die Langpad, Kalfiewals, Hartseerwals, Die ou waenhuis, music by Jim Muller, Nico Carstens and guitar master from the 1970’s, Hansie Roodt.

BOEREMUSIEK, ROCCOSTYL is a celebration of true South African indigenous music. Get happy, get nostalgic, get a drink and get to the theatre.

Rocco, Lizelle and Hansie are well- dressed, well-rehearsed and well-oiled. Of course.

PIETER TOERIEN’S MONTECASINO THEATRE AND STUDIO
14-18 JUNE
BOOK AT WEBTICKETS

The Echo of a Noise – a one man memoir with Pieter-Dirk Uys

The Echo of a Noise took everyone by surprise. After it’s first sold-out season at the Theatre on the Bay in 2016, the performer/writer has told his story to captivated audiences throughout South Africa. Now he will bring the experience back to the Montecasino Theatre. Having performed alone on the stages of the world for well over seven thousand times, Pieter-Dirk Uys has learnt that every show is the first and the last performance – because each audience demands and gets a different energy, topicality and excitement. Now in his 77th year, he doesn’t glance back at the successes and failures that have strengthened his belief in a constant improvement of his work, but at those small signposts that throughout his life subconsciously have pointed him in a right and original direction – his father Hannes Uys, his mother Helga Bassel, his grandmothers, his teachers, his passions: Sophia Loren, censorship, false eyelashes and making a noise when everyone demanded silence.

South Africa’s foremost satirist sits on a barstool, wearing his black beanie and his Almost Famous sweatshirt, and with his impish smile, he even looks like a naughty goblin trapped by the spotlight. Within minutes he fills the auditorium with his presence. This is just Pieter-Dirk Uys speaking and he opens his heart and talks about his private and public life. The big hair and silky repartee of Evita Bezuidenhout or the smoky drone of the sexy Bambi Kellermann have been stored elsewhere for some other time. It soon becomes clear that the title of his autobiographical one-man memoir, The Echo of a Noise, doesn’t really do justice to what he presents here. He leads you into his inner sanctuary, takes you through our history and shows where what is public and private meet.

Uys was and still is a voice in the wilderness, ever since he first appeared fearlessly on a stage in the 1970’s. He jokes that the all-powerful censor board was his own personal public relations department. We hear the recording of the voice of little Pietertjie Uys singing like an angel and accompanied on the piano by his father, Hannes Uys, whom he would accompany on Sundays to the church where ‘Pa’ was organist – the father whom he loved, but didn’t like very much; the sternest critic of his work and yet the one who could also give good advice. He tells of his father’s last moments, being with him as he died and then going back to the family home where Sannie, the housekeeper and his ‘Cape Flats mother’, asked if there wasn’t any washing from ‘Pa’. The audience is spellbound as he shares the suicide of his German mother, Helga, as well as the influences on him of his Afrikaans and German grandmothers. It’s as if Uys constantly takes his audience into his confidence and so breaks all the rules and crosses boundaries. He remains a master storyteller who can make as much fun of himself as he does with the others who get a lashing from his sharp tongue. This is arguably beyond the 7000th solo performance and yet it feels as fresh as his very first.

MEDIA COMMENTS
The Echo of a Noise is the most honest and wonderful performance I’ve ever seen him give. He’s a magnificent raconteur – Leslie Stones / Daily Maverick 28.3.2017
Watching this intimate performance was like having a one-on-one conversation with Uys – Karitha Pillay / Witness 23.2.2017
Pieter-Dirk Uys has a knack of knocking life into perspective. Even as we laughed, we left The Echo of a Noise much wiser, with thanks for the gift of this teacher/philosopher/actor/satirist/humourist. Long may Pieter-Dirk Uys remain our moral signpost – Sheila Chisholm / OnChisholm 4.4.2017
For me the show was a revelation of Pieter-Dirk Uys’s considerable courage, humanity, endurance and loyalty – Chris Sutton / Times 27.7.2017
He shared his personal history with such a profound sense of honesty that at times I was moved to tears – Wanda Daly ? Berea Mail 2.7.2017
A national treasure, a theatrical legend, a master craftsman, a constant inspiration – Pieter-Dirk Uys delivers his most poignant and gripping work to date with The Echo of a Noise. He is simply superb. – Billy Suter / Sosuterbill 27.7.2017
The experience of a great comforting hug is perhaps the best way to describe The Echo of a Noise. That hug is an ode to storytelling in service of the theatre and life that helped shape Uys as an all-round creative artist.
He’s engaging, dramatic, poignant, bitingly satirical and hysterically funny – performing the most riveting two hours without an interval. But you barely notice the time. Don’t miss it. – Caroline Smart / Artsmart 27.7 2017
The story he weaves in The Echo of a Noise is funny, sad, poignant and utterly compelling … Uys’s finest work. – Estelle Simkins / Witness 2.8.2017
This is an amazing glimpse into what created one of the most influential performers in South Africa. Uys is a master storyteller whose characters are always entertaining and at the same time often poignant. This wonderful trip down memory lane is a treasure and definitely a show not to be missed – Dawn Heynes / Livewire 8.7.2017
That’s what I took away from The Echo of a Noise – a feeling of solidarity and a night filled with laughter and some tears. And that’s Pieter-Dirk Uys. That’s always been Pieter-Dirk Uys. An artist who has, through the decades, united a very divided South Africa through laughter and later introspection. – Carla Bernardo / Cape Argus 1.12.2016
Pieter-Dirk Uys’ one-man memoir – The Echo of a Noise

Pieter-Dirk Uys has taken South Africa by storm with his provocative and deeply personal memoir The Echo of a Noise. It is a story that aches to be heard and Uys knows how to keep his audiences on the very edge of their seats waiting to hear about the great influences in his life: his father Hannes Uys and mother Helga Bassel, and of course his unlikely pen friend, the beautiful Sophia Loren. Audiences are given the opportunity to celebrate a life well lived in all its emotional states. Uys has played to full houses and sold out seasons. His masterful story telling, wit and wisdom are generously shared. As with so many of his performances he takes his audiences into his confidence, breaks the rules and crosses boundaries. Since the moment he first stepped on stage in the 1970s, Uys has been a voice where others have demanded silence. Jokes about the censor board being his own personal public relations department, gently disguise the reality that each time he tread the boards, he crossed lines and stepped on quite dangerous toes. He has always used humour as a “weapon of mass distraction” and describes the laughter he evoked as a relief from the fears that shaped South African society in 1950s, 60s, 70s, and 80s. PDU unpowdered!

SO I WROTE THAT MUSICAL

A brand new stand-up COMEDY SHOW

starring MARC LOTTERING

Produced By Anwar Mc Kay

5 – 15 July

All tickets at Webtickets

 

Pieter-Dirk Uys SELL-BY DATE
24 August – 10 September

SELL-BY DATE

Pieter-Dirk Uys will be back in Johannesburg at Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre from 24 Aug – 10 Sept with a new show.

It is called SELL-BY DATE and, as expected from his one-person performances, features not only PDU, but also a cluster of topical characters, male, female and political.

Being active in live theatre since the late 1960s, he is not surprised when people now ask: ‘When will you retire?’ His answer is short and sweet: ‘Not retire. Retread!’

This 2023 performance will also show Uys at his 77-year old best: laughing at fears and embracing facts with his tongue firmly in your cheek.

A sell-by date on food usually means: throw way. A sell-buy date in Uys’s hands will reflect a new post-Covid energy that, while his audition might be over and the disease to please has been cured, proves that a PDU show is always a highlight to remember.

* no interval

* running time: 70/80 mins max

* English and Afrikaans

FIREFLY

Starring Sylvaine Strike & Andrew Buckland,

with Tony Bentel on piano.

Directed by Toni Morkel.

Pieter Toerien’s Theatre On The Bay from 28 April to 13 May

Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre from 17 May to 11 June.

FIREFLY, starring Sylvaine Strike and Andrew Buckland

In the remote village of Bucket’s End, nestled high in the mountains upstream from the disappearing river, Ferine and Ferase manifest their love by delighting in their masterful telling of the story of two ill-fated lovers whose forbidden love is ignited by full moons and fireflies. The exceptional clowning duo of theatre legends Andrew Buckland and Sylvaine Strike take you on an unforgettable journey into wonder with Firefly.

“One of the factors that make this piece so unique is the range of imaginative theatre traditions and techniques used. Clowning and its associated physical tics and contortions combine with perspective switches in both action and narration to help the audience understand which couple they are engaging with and what sort of emotional connection is likely most appropriate. An incredible level of detail adds a dozen extra layers – costumes that contort to reflect a character’s emotional state; a tiny peephole in a giant curtain, used just once, but revealing the specific headspace; the precise movements of one or both of the actors as they contort their bodies to fit an hilarious description of their appearance. Strike and Buckland, along with director Toni Morkel, ensure that nothing in this tidal wave of creativity exists purely for the sake of filling a gap, with each nuance helping to first establish an understanding of the story and then to inspire a feeling of ever-growing wonder at the poetic, desolate, hysterical, exultant genius of it all.” – Bruce Dennill, pARTicipate

Age restriction: PG-10
Duration: 1 Hour 15 minutes – no interval

Bookings at webtickets.co.za

Booking link: https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/search.aspx?search=firefly

 

CAPE TOWN OPERA presents MASTER CLASS starring SANDRA PRINSLOO as MARIA CALLAS, Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre from 15 March to 2 April, 2023.


From 15 March to 2 April 2023, Pieter Toerien in association with Cape Town Opera (CTO) will present MASTER CLASS at Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre, a riveting play written by the late American playwright, librettist and five-time Tony Award winner Terrence McNally (Kiss of the Spider Woman, Love!Valour!Compassion!, Ragtime, The Lisbon Traviata).

Directed by CTO’s Artistic Director Magdalene Minnaar, with musical direction by José Dias, the two-act play stars Sandra Prinsloo as Maria Callas and features well-known arias by Verdi, Puccini and Bellini. Prinsloo, in a purely acting role, will be joined by a stellar supporting Cape Town Opera cast including Soloist Brittany Smith together with CTO’s Judith Neilson Young Artists Alida Scheepers and Tylor Lamani as the aspiring opera singers mentored by Callas. Musical Director José Dias takes on a dual role as pianist and actor. Costume design is by Maritha Visagie and lighting design is by Magdalene Minnaar.

“Cape Town Opera is delighted to be presenting this superb piece of theatre,” says Magdalene Minnaar. “From having one of South Africa’s greatest actresses playing Callas to being back at Pieter Toerien’s beautiful Theatre on the Bay during the100th anniversary of Callas’ birth is very special.”

Master Class is a portrait of Callas in the context of the master classes she gave at the Juilliard School in New York in 1971, at a time when she herself had not sung in six years. In the play she is seen working with three students – two sopranos and a tenor. Aside from her biting wit, she is often blunt and even harsh in her efforts to mentor and prepare the singers for the cut-throat world of operatic performance. The play’s riveting theatricality is truly ignited by Callas’ emotional outbursts and the soaring arias performed under her guidance.

2023 marks the 100th anniversary of Maria Callas’ birth. Born in New York in 1923 to a family of impoverished Greek immigrants, Callas’ rise to stardom and her recognition as the greatest dramatic singer of all time remains unchallenged. In Master Class, Terrence McNally, who was a devoted fan of ‘La Divina’ and watched all of her performances at the Metropolitan Opera House, recreates her genius, recounts her triumphs and tribulations and reveals the tempestuous personality that often led to clashes and disputes with opera managers and colleagues during her career.

As the five-hander play progresses, the daunting diva shares insights and memories, recalling her experiences on the world’s grandest opera stages, her marriage to the wealthy industrialist Meneghini and her highly publicised and ultimately heart breaking affair with Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis. While her life recollections in the play are vivid, McNally once explained that Master Class was never meant to be a docudrama, but rather a work of fiction. It is foremost about the price an artist must often pay in the pursuit of excellence and greatness.

Master Class is at Pieter Toerien’s Theatre at Montecasino in Johannesburg from 15 March to 2 April 2023. Tickets cost from R180 to R280 through 011 511 1988 or or via Webtickets.

Booking link: https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/Event.aspx?itemid=1524418851

No under 13’s.

 

Pieter Toerien and Cape Town Opera present Terrence McNally’s Master Class.

To celebrate the centenary of Maria Callas’ birthday, Pieter Toerien and Cape Town Opera present Terrence McNally’s Tony Award winning play, Master Class.

Starring multi-award winning actress Sandra Prinsloo as the glamorous and commanding opera diva Maria Callas in her 1970’s swan song, in the closing act of her life.

The play features incidental vocal music by Giuseppe Verdi, Giacomo Puccini, and Vincenzo Bellini.

Directed by Magdalene Minnaar.

Dates: 21 February to 11 March, 2023 at Pieter Toerien’s Theatre On The Bay.

Duration: Approx’ 2-hours including a 20-minute interval.

Age restriction: No under 13

Ticket prices:

R180 Row A Stalls

R220 Rows B, K Stalls / & CC Balcony

R280 Rows C – J / AA & BB Balcony

Boxes sold as 4: R280 each seat

To book CLICK HERE,

or dial (021) 438-3300/1.

Press release:

CAPE TOWN OPERA presents MASTER CLASS starring SANDRA PRINSLOO as MARIA CALLAS, at Theatre on the Bay from 20 February 2023

From 20 February to 11 March 2023, Pieter Toerien in association with Cape Town Opera (CTO) will present MASTER CLASS at Theatre on the Bay, a riveting play written by the late American playwright, librettist and five-time Tony Award winner Terrence McNally (Kiss of the Spider Woman, Love!Valour!Compassion!, Ragtime, The Lisbon Traviata).

Directed by CTO’s Artistic Director Magdalene Minnaar, with musical direction by José Dias, the two-act play stars Sandra Prinsloo as Maria Callas and features well-known arias by Verdi, Puccini and Bellini. Prinsloo, in a purely acting role, will be joined by a stellar supporting Cape Town Opera cast including Soloist Brittany Smith together with CTO’s Judith Neilson Young Artists Alida Scheepers and Tylor Lamani as the aspiring opera singers mentored by Callas. Musical Director José Dias takes on a dual role as pianist and actor. Costume design is by Maritha Visagie and lighting design is by Magdalene Minnaar.

“Cape Town Opera is delighted to be presenting this superb piece of theatre,” says Magdalene Minnaar. “From having one of South Africa’s greatest actresses playing Callas to being back at Pieter Toerien’s beautiful Theatre on the Bay during the100th anniversary of Callas’ birth is very special.”

Master Class is a portrait of Callas in the context of the master classes she gave at the Juilliard School in New York in 1971, at a time when she herself had not sung in six years. In the play she is seen working with three students – two sopranos and a tenor. Aside from her biting wit, she is often blunt and even harsh in her efforts to mentor and prepare the singers for the cut-throat world of operatic performance. The play’s riveting theatricality is truly ignited by Callas’ emotional outbursts and the soaring arias performed under her guidance.

2023 marks the 100th anniversary of Maria Callas’ birth. Born in New York in 1923 to a family of impoverished Greek immigrants, Callas’ rise to stardom and her recognition as the greatest dramatic singer of all time remains unchallenged. In Master Class, Terrence McNally, who was a devoted fan of ‘La Divina’ and watched all of her performances at the Metropolitan Opera House, recreates her genius, recounts her triumphs and tribulations and reveals the tempestuous personality that often led to clashes and disputes with opera managers and colleagues during her career.

As the five-hander play progresses, the daunting diva shares insights and memories, recalling her experiences on the world’s grandest opera stages, her marriage to the wealthy industrialist Meneghini and her highly publicised and ultimately heart breaking affair with Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis. While her life recollections in the play are vivid, McNally once explained that Master Class was never meant to be a docudrama, but rather a work of fiction. It is foremost about the price an artist must often pay in the pursuit of excellence and greatness.

Master Class is at Theatre on the Bay from 20 February  to 11 March 2023.

Tickets cost from R180 to R280 through 021438000/1 or or via Webtickets https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1524296688 <https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1524296688> . No under 13’s.

To watch an interview with playwright McNally on Master Class, click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KiwckxtDzg8 <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KiwckxtDzg8>
ENDS

Soprano Maria Callas at the Paris Opera in 1958. Creator: RDA Credit: Getty Images
Copyright: 2013 RDA

 

 

Jonathan Roxmouth’s KEYCHANGE – My Favourite Pianists

15 March to 8 April 2023

Tuesday to Friday @ 20h00
Saturday @ 15h00 and 20h00

BOOK TODAY at www.webtickets.co.za

In his brand new show, KEYCHANGE, Jonathan showcases the various piano based comedians, singers and entertainers who have shaped and influenced his musical tastes through various phases of his life. Backed by a fantastic 5 piece band, Jonathan will be playing and belting out the music of piano rockers such as JERRY LEE LEWIS, ELTON JOHN and BILLY JOEL, pianists like LIBERACE, RICHARD CLAYDERMAN and DAVID FOSTER, singers such as CAROLE KING, BURT BACHARACH and FREDDIE MERCURY all in a personal pianistic performance that is perfect for all music lovers. Expect Jonathan’s trademark tongue-in-cheek humour, pianistic flair and a few surprises along the way!

Pieter Toerien and RMB present the Mzansi Tenors at Theatre On The Bay from 25 – 28 January, 2023.

After triumphant appearances around the country, the Mzansi Tenors, hosted by Richard Cock and supported by Rand Merchant Bank, are coming to Theatre on the Bay for a short season, from 25 – 28 January 2023.

Their programme includes all your favourite tenor arias and South African hits, and with ten tenors performing in their signature Afro-opera style.

“You are sure to get shivers down your spine”, says Richard Cock.

This is a proudly South African performance which will inspire you for the year ahead.

Don’t miss the thrilling experience of ten tenors singing moving arias, signature African pieces,  Neopolitan favourites and musical theatre memories.

Tickets range from R150 – R275.

Bookings through  Webtickets.

In proud collaboration with Rand Merchant Bank.

LAMTA Presents ‘COME TOGETHER – The Beatles Covered/Uncovered’

COME TOGETHER – The Beatles Covered/Uncovered from 1 – 11 February, 2023.

What makes The Beatles’ songs so timeless? And what has made so many artists from Frank Sinatra, McFly, Michael Bublé, to Tina Turner cover their work?

COME TOGETHER – The Beatles Covered / Uncovered, is an exuberant, energetic, and entertaining dance production presented by the Cape Town based Performing Arts Academy LAMTA (The Luitingh Alexander Musical Theatre Academy).

After a sold out run at the Theatre on the Bay in Cape Town in June and a phenomenal season in Johannesburg in November, COME TOGETHER is back! The production features close to 40 up-and-coming young talents in a diverse selection of dance genres including contemporary, tap and commercial dance, and is wonderfully entertaining to audiences of all ages. The LAMTA Dance Production has become a calendar highlight in Cape Town, so be sure not to miss your opportunity to see them back at Theatre on the Bay in February!

Besides the fantastic choreographic aspect of the show, COME TOGETHER adds another creative perspective into the music of the Beatles, as the songs in the show are all covers performed by famous (and some not-so-famous) artists, an exciting playlist of songs that were originally performed by a band who are arguably the most successful act of the 20th century.

LAMTA has once again welcomed some of South Africa’s top choreographic talents including Michelle Reid, Jared Schaedler, Hope Maimane, Figure of 8 Collective, Natalie Fisher, Robin van Wyk, Brigitte Reeve Taylor, Ashley Searle, and Duane Alexander to work with our students and to bring to life the stories behind some of the Fab Four’s greatest works.

Book through Webtickets, or contact Sharon on 066 564 1816

Tickets are R250 per person.
10+ Students Group Bookings: R150 per person, through Sharon on 066 564 1816

Click HERE to book online!

Theatre On The Bay Performance Schedule:

Wednesday 1st February 20:00

Thursday 2nd February 20:00

Friday 3rd February 20:00

Saturday 4th February 16:00 & 20:00

Tuesday 7th February 20:00

Wednesday 8th February 20:00

Thursday 9th February 20:00

Friday 10th February 20:00

Saturday 11th February 16:00 & 20:00

Visit LAMTA for more details.

SUEÑOS

JAMES GRACE (Guitar)

CARLI OLIVIER (Compañía Sophia Spanish Dance)

1 – 12 MARCH PIETER TOERIEN’S THEATRE, MONTECASINO, JOHANNESBURG

12 – 22 APRIL THEATRE ON THE BAY, CAPE TOWN

Sueños (Dreams) is the third collaboration between internationally acclaimed and 2020 SAMA (South African Music Award) winning guitarist JAMES GRACE and leading choreographer and principal dancer of South Africa’s foremost Spanish dance company Compañía Sophia, CARLI OLIVIER.

Sueños is inspired by the indescribable beauty and romance of Andalucía, which have captured the imaginations of great minds from Shakespeare, who stated, “Every inquisitive traveller keeps Granada in his heart, without ever having visited it”, to Lorca, who commented, “Granada is the perfect dream and fantasy, forever ineffable…”

Including music from Grace’s all-Spanish discography and featuring a selection of previously unrecorded works, complimented by original choreography by Olivier, the cast of Compañia Sophía are joined onstage for a special guest appearance by dancers from Johannesburg-based contemporary ballet company, WGRUV Dance International, in a unique and pioneering fusion of traditional Spanish and contemporary forms.

BOOK NOW!

WHAT THE CRITICS SAY:

ROMANZA (2022)

“You are left wanting more!” (StepOut Gauteng)

“Experience Spain right here in Johannesburg. Dramatic, intense, fun and full of energy!” (Galore SA)

“Simply exquisite” (Carolyn Styen, HOT 1027)

RECUERDOS (2018)

“The grammar and vocabulary of the choreography conjures up a storm of Spanish dance protocol blended with a touch of utter magic” (Robyn Sassen, robynsassenmyview.com)

“A stunning visual experience” (Sheila Chisholm, weekendspecial.co.za)

Alan Committie is BACK! In his TWENTY FIFTH solo stand up show, taking inspiration from the 25 JAMES BOND movies that have been released over the last 60 years.

From 13 December, 2022 – 21 January, 2023 at Theatre On The Bay.

This brand new comedy show – **Live and Let Laugh** – was tested on some Jozi audiences earlier this year and this is what they had to say:

***“After the stress or recent years, it’s so good to have sore ribs again.***

***His latest show is  an absolute must see “***

***“It was definitely right up there with one of his best shows.***

***This show certainly has it all and is a great night out “***

***“Awesome show! Full of laughs from beginning to end!***

***Absolutely loved it “***

***“Excellent!***

***Non stop laughter.***

***Worth it!”***

***“Book now! You will not be sorry!***

***Alan Committie  is highly professional,***

***extremely talented and hysterically funny”***

***“Funny, witty, clever, with the gift of changing the perception of time, 90+minutes seem like 10 minutes. “***

Live and Let Laugh includes a special appearance by intrepid international (read: large parts of Free-State and Upington) security guard Mr Johann Van Der Walt and his “Jaws”esque dentures….

You can also expect a flip-chart, attractive women (in the audience), action and suspense galore (will there be enough staff to deal with interval bar rush?) and a climactic ending (which may or may not involve a xylophone, two rabid porcupines and an inflatable Renaut Clio)…..

Bookings are now open and our first performance on the 13th of December is already SOLD OUT so get buying now…..

BOOK HERE!

See you at the theatre!

**The names Committie. Alan Committie.**

Double Ho Ho…
Licence to laugh

NOW ON STAGE!

BUDDY: THE BUDDY HOLLY STORY – THE WORLD’S MOST SUCCESSFUL ROCK & ROLL MUSICAL,

NOW ON STAGE AT THE ARTSCAPE OPERA HOUSE!

Jethro Tait as Buddy in Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story! Photography by Gustav Klotz.


Pieter Toerien presents a brand-new, full-scale stage production of the HIT rock ‘n roll jukebox musical, ‘Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story’, LIVE & ROCKIN’ at the Artscape Opera House, until 16 April.
Directed by the West End’s Nick Winston (Fame, Cats, Chess, Annie, Bonnie And Clyde), this fresh and unique jukebox musical follows the incredible journey of Buddy’s meteoric rise to the top of the record charts during the golden days of rock ‘n’ roll – bigger and better than ever seen before in South Africa.Dynamic set and costume designs by Fleur du Cap award-winner, Niall Griffin (‘I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change’, ‘Hedwig And The Angry Inch’, ‘Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’), and musical direction by Naledi award-winning Wessel Odendaal (‘The Phantom Of The Opera’, ‘Here’s To You – The Simon And Garfunkel Songbook’, ‘Avenue Q’, ‘The Sound Of Music’).
BOOKINGS NOW OPEN AT WEBTICKETS!
Leading the all-South African cast is singer-songwriter frontman Jethro Tait as the legendary Buddy Holly. This dynamic young performer has the crowds rocking and rolling, like it’s 1958

Introducing Jethro Tait as Buddy Holly, in Pieter Toerien’s new exciting production to hit SA in 2023! (Instagram).

The ensemble includes the best in South African talent: Bethany Dickson (Matilda – The Musical, Grease, The Sound Of Music) and Keaton Ditchfield (Evita, Saturday Night Fever, West Side Story), with Michael Stray, Chad Baai, Gianluca Gironi, Thoko Jiyane, Che-Jean Jupp, Gerard Van Rooyen, Koketso Mere, Gabriela Dos Santos, Nic Sedgewick, Virtuous Kandemiri, Sindiswa Ndlovu, Stephan Bezuidenhout, and Morgan Marshall.Included are all the favourites; songs such as “That’ll Be The Day”, “True Love Ways”, “Oh Boy”, “Peggy Sue”, “Chantilly Lace”, “La Bamba”, “Rave On”, “Johnny B. Goode”, “Everyday”, and many more!

The duration of the show is approximately 2-hours and 25-minutes (including a 20-minute interval).
Age restriction: suitable for ages 8+.

‘Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story’ runs at the Artscape Opera house from 28 March to 16 April, 2023, and the Teatro at Montecasino from 22 April until 28 May, 2023.

Tickets ranging from R150 to R500 are available through webtickets.co.za.

BOOKING LINK: https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/search.aspx?search=buddy

The Cast Of Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story ROCKS Artscape! Photography by Gustav Klotz.

For Cape Town media enquiries contact dean@theatreonthebay.co.za
For Jo’burg media enquiries contact mark@montetheatre.co.za
Production photography by Gustav Klotz.

Jonathan Roxmouth’s KEYCHANGE – My Favourite Pianists – RETURN SEASON

11 Oct – 29 Oct 2023
Wednesday to Friday @ 20h00
Saturday @ 15h00 and 20h00
Sunday 14h00

BOOK TODAY at www.webtickets.co.za

For the first time in almost 8 years, Jonathan Roxmouth is back at the piano at Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre! In his brand new show, KEYCHANGE, Jonathan showcases the various piano based comedians, singers and entertainers who have shaped and influenced his musical tastes through various phases of his life. Backed by a fantastic 5 piece band, Jonathan will be playing and belting out the music of piano rockers such as JERRY LEE LEWIS, ELTON JOHN and BILLY JOEL, pianists like LIBERACE, RICHARD CLAYDERMAN and DAVID FOSTER, singers such as CAROLE KING, BURT BACHARACH and FREDDIE MERCURY all in a personal pianistic performance that is perfect for all music lovers. Expect Jonathan’s trademark tongue-in-cheek humour, pianistic flair and a few surprises along the way!

****  Click HERE to book! ****
The Luitingh Alexander Musical Theatre Academy
Presents

‘BEING STEVE’

What do Sondheim, Schwartz and Flaherty have in common? Well, they all share the same first name, but what is more binding is their illustrious Broadway careers as composers and lyricists of some of the world’s most beloved and award winning musicals!

With works spanning over many decades, Musical Theatre would not be the same without the genius of Stephen Sondheim, Stephen Schwartz, and Stephen Flaherty. Between them, the three “Steves”, have either composed the music for or written the lyrics to such mega-hit musicals as Sweeney Todd, Into The Woods, Sunday In The Park With George, Wicked, Godspell, Pippin, Anastasia, Once On This Island and Ragtime to name just a few.

For its final production of the year, the Luitingh Alexander Musical Theatre Academy (LAMTA) are excited to present “Being Steve”, a tribute to three Broadway legends that will renew your faith in music and the performing arts in a way that only the music of Sondheim, Schwartz and Flaherty can.

‘BEING STEVE’ runs from the 16 to the 26 November at the Theatre on the Bay.

Tickets are R250 per person.

Bookings through Computicket or Ingrid at pr@lamta.co.za | 083 273 8284

Click HERE to book!

10+ Student/Scholar Group Bookings: R150 via Ingrid at pr@lamta.co.za | 083 273 8284

Performances as follows:

Wednesday 16 November: 8pm
Thursday 17 November: 8pm
Friday 18 November: 8pm
Saturday 19 November: 4pm & 8pm
Tuesday 22 November: 8pm
Wednesday 23 November: 8pm
Thursday 24 November: 8pm
Friday 25 November: 8pm
Saturday 26 November: 4pm & 8pm

See you at the Theatre!

Bel canto genius Gaetano Donizetti’s L’elisir d’amore (The elixir of love) is presented by Cape Town Opera, a touring production made possible by the unfailing generosity of the Judith Neilson Head Trust.
After a successful tour to Ermelo and Sasolburg last month, Cape Town Opera will present the delightful production in the Mother City at Theatre on the Bay in Camps Bay from 13-16 October 2022.

Conroy Scott as Doctor Dulcamara

True to the tradition of romantic comedy, L’elisir d’amore ticks all the requisite boxes of popular entertainment; perhaps as a corrective antidote to the two serious operas composed by Donizetti immediately before its première in May 1832, it lives and breathes tongue-in-cheek joie de vivre.
The production will be directed by the company’s imaginative Artistic Director, Magdalene Minnaar, with a piano reduction of the orchestral score entrusted to pianist José Dias. Costume design is by Rabia Davids and Maritha Visagie, who also designs the set,while Fiona du Plooy is responsible for movement direction.
The cast features Puerto Rican tenor Juan Hernández as Nemorino, Brittany Smith as Adina, Conroy Scott as Doctor Dulcamara, Van Wyk Venter as Belcore and Linda Nteleza as Giannetta.
Magdalene Minnaar explains that, after Cape Town Opera’s joyful production of Le nozze di Figaro, the team decided to forge on with another comic opera as an antidote to the misery of Covid-19: “We want to offer our audiences colour, jokes and glorious melodies.” She adds that among these melodies are arias so popular that they will be familiar even to those who do not regularly follow opera. As for context, Minnaar states, “In our version of ‘Elisir’, we have created an Escher-esque dream world in which Adina is tested by the mad scientist and ‘encyclopedic doctor’ Dulcamara. He is an alchemist with a Frankensteinian flair for ingenious chemistry, which he uses to bend the rules of chance, thereby sculpting an alternate reality as a human experiment. Like Spalanzani in Les contes d’Hoffmann with his mechanical doll or a more modern-day Circe, he sends Adina into this alternate realm where two contrasting love prospects test her: the sweet and slightly average Nemorino and pompous, presumptuous Belcore.”

Juan Hernández as Nemorino & Brittany Smith as Adina

There is never much room for doubt that a happy ending is inevitable in this plot which is as flimsy as tissue paper but utterly charming. Add Donizetti’s beguiling score and lyricism to the high-spirited comedy, and you have all the pleasure that an evening of opera at its sunniest can produce.
Like vintage wine, Elisir has aged beautifully over nearly two centuries: join us in taking a sip and letting the magic do its work.
Conroy Scott as Doctor Dulcamara & Brittany Smith as Adina

Conroy Scott as Doctor Dulcamara & Brittany Smith as Adina

With thanks to Ian Burgess-Simpson Pianos, who are providing a wonderful Kawai GL-20 piano for the performances at Theatre on the Bay.
Performances:
Thursday 13 October at 7:30pm
Friday 14 October at 7:30pm
Saturday 15 October at 6pm
Sunday 16 October at 3pm
Booking link:
Or call Theatre On The Bay on (021) 438-3301

Peoples Theatre is proud to  present Mr Hare meets Mr Mandela: on tour at Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre!

A limited run happening from

27 September – 09 October

Warm your hearts with the tale of how Mr Hare takes on the biggest lost-and-found adventure. An original production of one of Chris van Wyk’s last stories, Mr. Hare Meets Mr. Mandela is on tour at Monte Casino!

The show is a stage adaptation of  a book by Van Wyk with illustrations by Paddy Bouma. Directed by Daniel Geddes, with a cast of four dynamic, charismatic professional actors who engage the audience with active participation, fun, comedy and adventures!|

Mr Hare Meets Mr Mandela is a tale about bravery, honesty and persistence, as well as the significance of being literate, something dear to the late Madiba’s heart.

Mr Hare finds an R200 note and, of course, it belongs to Mr Mandela because it has his face on it…or so the illiterate Mr Hare thinks. Mr Hare sets off to return the note to its rightful owner. With a brand-new script, joyful music and characters aplenty, the show promises to be fun for the whole family, as well as teaching children the many wonders of stories and being able to read them. The moral of the story is that if we do not learn from our experiences, we are bound to repeat them, and poor Mr Hare believes it is fine to be illiterate. This show runs one hour with no interval.

Show times for schools are Monday to Friday at 9am and 11am.

PLEASE BOOK EARLY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT

SPECIAL SCHOOL PERFORMANCES AT R100 PER LEARNER
1 COMPLIMENTARY TICKET FOR AN EDUCATOR PER 20 LEARNERS
Extra educators @ R100 each. Accompanying parents @ R100 each.

for bookings or enquiries

Phone Sne at the Peoples Theatre on 011-877-6841
or email info@peoplestheatre.co.za

Or contact Geraldine at Montecasino 011 511-1988

Geraldine@montetheatre.co.za

LAMTA presents COME TOGETHER – A Beatles inspired dance production

Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre

9 Nov – 13 Nov

 

What makes The Beatles’ songs so timeless? And what has made so many artists, from Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley to Nina Simone and even Linkin Park cover their work? COME TOGETHER – The Beatles Covered / Uncovered is LAMTA’s exuberant, energetic and entertaining dance production for 2022, where once again a host of top South African choreographers will uncover the stories behind some of the Fab Four’s greatest works – as covered by famous (and not so famous) musicians and songwriters alike. The Beatles wrote universal ‘words of wisdom’, encouragement and love, and their melodies are full of emotional depth, so it’s no wonder that everyone wants to sing their songs. The Luitingh Alexander Musical Theatre Academy which is housed on top of the glorious Theatre on the Bay, is home to the next generation of exciting South African talent. Their dance productions have become a calendar highlight, so make sure you ‘come together, right now’ and book your tickets!

 

Duration: 2 halves of 45 minutes

Interval: 20 minutes

Age Restriction: None

Ticket Price: R250