DUETS TO DYE FOR

A very pleasant way to spend a Sunday afternoon. (Review by Dawn Haynes)

The Rhumbelow Theatre in Umbilo is a relaxed, intimate venue perfectly suited for a pleasant Sunday afternoon’s entertainment. Bring your own snacks or meat for a braai (fires are always available) and enjoy good company and a good show. Drinks are available at a reasonable cost from the bar. This is definitely a formula that works – as was evident last Sunday afternoon at the performance of the latest show, Duets to Dye for.

The Family Players are well known in Durban for their Comedy Drag Mime (as it is described in the programme). This show also incorporated dancing and a singing duo. The dancing was performed by Kirsty Randall and Graeme Harpman who managed to execute some interesting and well choreographed numbers on this small stage. They are obviously comfortable together and the dance added another dimension to the songs.

The singing duo Belinda Dolphin and Junaid Cassidy (Jaz) were certainly spectacular! Their outfits became more and more glitzy with each number and I found myself waiting to see “what next??” To the extent that one’s attention is so drawn to the over-the-top costumes that the performance becomes secondary, perhaps this smaller venue would benefit from less dramatic outfits. While on the topic of costume, the Drag costumes were all superb. The wigs complimented each outfit perfectly and there had obviously been thought and care in dressing each performer.

With few exceptions, the mime (lip-synch) technique of these artists is great. Convincing and very seldom distracting, this difficult technique has been mastered by the majority. It is always refreshing to see such enthusiasm and obvious enjoyment by performers. Roland Stansell stands out as a natural entertainer who is having just as much fun as the audience! And the audience loved it! A charming “senior citizen” at the next table just could not stop smiling, applauding and bouncing along with the beat during every number.

All in all, a very pleasant way to spend a Sunday afternoon. So for those who don’t like travelling at night, take the opportunity of visiting the Rhumbelow! - Dawn Haynes

There will be a further run of Duets to Dye For from August 28 to 30 with Friday and Saturday performances at 20h00 (Sunday shows at 14h00 and 18h30). The venue opens 90 minutes before the show for a picnic meal, with braai fires available. No alcohol may be brought on to the premises as there is a cash bar available. There is limited secure parking.

Tickets R80. Booking essential through Roland at 031 205 7602 or 082 499 8636 or e-mail roland@stansell.za.net For further information visit www.rhumbelow.za.net