ALL SOAPED UP

Riveting cabaret performance by accomplished versatile actor Terrence Bridgett, star of SABC TV’s Isidingo (Review by Maurice Kort).

If you are not a “soapies” addict, you might not have heard of the Cape Town born actor Terence Bridgett who has become a household name through his appearances on SABC’s Isidingo and M-NET’s Binneland Sub Judice. If so, now is your chance to see this most versatile classically trained actor (at UCT) at the Rhumbelow Theatre over two weekends in All Soaped Up.

He is certainly much more than a "Soapies Slut" (his words), but a very accomplished and versatile actor. Using his experiences as one of the stars of Isidingo as a sounding board, he takes the audience through the audition agonies, his rise to fame and much of his life experiences, not least of which his constant weight gain problems a la Oprah and efforts to look good as per a TV star always in the limelight. His frank, revealing, behind-the-scenes look at life as a ‘Soap Star’ is interspersed with several songs, all very apropos the narrative and these, too, show his versatility. For these he is accompanied by renowned Musical Director, Coenraad Rall. Tickling the ivories he is a delightful foil for many of Bridgett’s comments, supplying many laughs along the way.

Here is Cabaret in its truest form and is enjoyment from start to end. This 90-minute tour de force could have held the audience spellbound for longer. It is one of the few shows at this venue that has ended in a well-deserved standing ovation.The show is directed by acclaimed, Cape Town born, actor and director Kurt Wustmann and the sound and lighting are professionally handled by the Rhumbelow Theatre crew.

Thanks to the wonders of modern technology, scenes capture cameo appearances by his Isidingo co-stars Karin van der Laag (Maggie), Ilse Klink (Vanessa) and Kim Cloete (Bianca). One does not have to be a soapie fanatic, or even have seen any episodes of Isidingo to appreciate and enjoy All Soaped Up to the fullest. It certainly stands on its own as a thoroughly enjoyable theatrical experience. The script is very funny and flows smoothly from one item to the next. Terence Bridgett's attention to detail shows in every movement and action, from the smallest finger gestures.

All Soaped Up runs at the intimate Rhumbelow Theatre, Cunningham Rd, Umbilo, next weekend (February 4 to 6) with performances on Friday and Saturday at 20h00 and Sunday at 18h30. The venue opens 90 minutes before the shows for picnic dinners with braai facilities being available. With a bar on the premises, no alcohol or drinks are to be brought on to the premises. Tickets R100 pp and booking is essential at Computicket or by phoning/e-mailing Roland at H: 031 205 7602, cell 082 499 8636 or e-mail: roland@stansell.za.net Limited secure parking is available. For more information see www.rhumbelow.za.net - Maurice Kort