CINDERELLA

KickstArt presents the magic of traditional pantomime for festive season.

What would the Durban Christmas holidays be without the magic of a KickstArt pantomime? This year, KickstArt has chosen to stage everybody’s favourite fairytale, Cinderella which comes to the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre on KZN University campus from November 29 to run until January 4.

Cinderella is being given the full pantomime treatment: gorgeous costumes, lavish sets, toe-tapping songs, jokes aplenty, a lively chorus of dancers, and fabulous special effects. Once again, director Steven Stead and designer Greg King are set to enchant audiences with another spectacular family show, following in the tradition they have established with their earlier award-winning successes such as The Wizard of Oz, Aladdin, Winnie-the-Pooh and The Jungle Book.

The top-notch local cast is headed by the lovely Belinda Henwood as the rags to riches heroine, with Darren King and Thomie Holtzhausen excelling in their hilarious roles as her Ugly Sisters. Bryan Hiles brings all his characteristic charm to playing Buttons, her friend and admirer, while in true panto style, Janna Ramos Violante and Marion Loudon add a dash of style and panache as Prince Charming and his valet, Dandini. Shelley MacLean completes the cast as a glamorous Fairy Godmother.

Following the success of their recent Wizard of Oz, Stead and King have assembled the same ‘winning formula’ production team to mount the production: Seasoned professional Evan Roberts returns as Musical Director, Janine Bennewith is again providing the witty, sparkling choreographer and lighting design is once again in the more than capable hands of Tina le Roux.

KickstArt produce four productions annually - their line up this year has seen David Mamet's Oleanna, Willy Russell’s gentle comedy Shirley Valentine, the delightful family fantasy musical The Wizard of Oz; and this year’s annual festive season musical, Cinderella.

Cinderella will run at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre from November 28 to January 4, with performances Tuesday to Saturday at 14h30, Friday and Saturday at 19h00, and Sunday at 15h00. There are no performances on Christmas Day, Boxing Day or New Year’s Day.

Tickets R90 (R70 for children under 12 ) booked through Computicket. Discounted pensioners tickets (R70) can be purchased from Computicket outlets only, on presentation of appropriate ID, but not on the internet or the telephone. Low price previews on November 29 at 19h00 and November 30 at 15h00.when ticket prices are R70 throughout the house.

Also note there is a special schools performance on December 4 at 11h00. R45 for scholars in block bookings. Call Steven 072 796 4236 to book for this show only.